Ames in Focus: Planting Possibility with Megan Klein-Hewett

Spring is on the way, and the Ames Public Library is helping the community get growing. In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart talks with Megan Klein-Hewett, Adult Services Manager at the Ames Public Library, about the Seed Library program.

Megan explains how residents can “check out” seeds, grow them at home, and return seeds from their harvest if possible to help keep the program thriving.

The conversation explores how the Seed Library supports food access, sustainability, lifelong learning, and community connection.

Whether you are a seasoned gardener or someone planting your first herb in a container on the patio, the Seed Library offers a welcoming way to try something new this spring.

Episode Highlights

🌱 What Is a Seed Library? Instead of books, visitors can take home packets of seeds such as vegetables, herbs, flowers, and pollinator friendly plants to grow in their own gardens.

🌼 Accessible Gardening for Everyone The program is designed for all experience levels. Even beginners or people with limited space can participate through container gardening.

🌎 Why the Library Started the Program The Seed Library supports sustainability, food access, and hands on learning while building community connections.

🌿 What You Can Grow Available seeds may include vegetables, herbs, native plants, and flowers that support pollinators.

📚 How to Participate Stop by the Ames Public Library, browse the Seed Library, and take a few seed packets home to plant. If your plants produce seeds later in the season, you can save and return some to help the program continue.

🤝 Community Involvement Residents can contribute by donating seeds, volunteering with sorting and organizing, or sharing their gardening successes with the community.

Spring Gardening Tips

• Start simple. Herbs and easy vegetables are great first plants.

• Container gardening is a good option if you do not have yard space.

• Spring is the perfect time to experiment and learn as you grow.

Visit the Ames Public Library to explore the Seed Library and find upcoming spring programs, including gardening workshops and other seasonal events.

If you have been thinking about starting a garden, or simply want an excuse to get outside and try something new, the Seed Library offers a simple place to begin. A few seeds, a little soil, and a bit of curiosity can go a long way.