All About Signage
Making your seed library more accessible, informative, and engaging—one sign at a time
A well-placed sign can make all the difference in creating an accessible, welcoming, and well-functioning seed library. Whether you’re clarifying seed borrowing policies, sharing gardening wisdom, or celebrating the diversity of seeds and their savers, signage is your silent ambassador. This issue of Cool Beans! 🫘 is all about the different types of signage that can help your seed library thrive.
Spotlight: The Local Seeds Sign
Locally grown and shared seeds have been a cornerstone of human culture for over 10,000 years! By saving and exchanging seeds, we are not only preserving biodiversity but also strengthening community connections. However, it's important to acknowledge that locally shared seeds may not always be labeled accurately, and seed-saving experience varies from person to person.
A Local Seeds Sign can help set expectations and encourage a spirit of curiosity and learning. Consider posting a sign that states:
"Seeds in this library have been grown and shared by members of our community. While we celebrate this diversity, please note that some seeds may not be true to type. Seed saving is a learning process, and we encourage you to embrace the adventure!"
Make a copy of the Seed Signage/Disclaimer sign to post in your library so that borrowers understand the unique nature of locally shared seeds.
Other Signage Ideas to Elevate Your Library
Beyond the Local Seeds Sign, there are many other signs that can help guide your seed library visitors and enhance their experience. Here are a few key signage ideas:
Membership & Borrowing Guidelines
A sign outlining how people can participate in your seed library—whether it requires membership, how borrowing works, and how they can contribute back—helps make the process clear and inviting.
How to Save Seeds
A simple, eye-catching sign featuring a list of "Super Easy" plants for beginners can encourage more people to try their hand at seed saving. Highlight foolproof seeds like tomatoes, beans, and lettuce to help new savers gain confidence.
Seed Viability Chart
Not all seeds last forever! A viability chart can help gardeners know which seeds are still good and which ones may have lower germination rates. This can prevent disappointment and promote successful growing seasons.
Embrace Diversity!
A sign that helps people vet the quality of locally grown seeds while reinforcing the importance of biodiversity and seed adaptation. This can include tips like checking for good germination rates and learning about a seed’s history from the donor.
Planting Times & Regional Guidance
Planting calendars tailored to your region can be a game-changer for gardeners. Consider collaborating with local extension offices or Master Gardeners to provide seasonally relevant planting information.
Gardening Tips from Local Experts
Seed libraries are about more than just seeds—they are about knowledge-sharing! Create a sign with seasonal gardening tips sourced from Master Gardeners, experienced local growers, or nearby nurseries.
Upcoming Events & Workshops
Keep your community engaged by posting information about upcoming seed swaps, gardening workshops, and library events. A dedicated event sign can encourage participation and build community connections.
Let’s Get These Signs Up!
Signage may seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in helping your seed library run smoothly and effectively. Whether you’re clarifying borrowing policies, encouraging seed saving, or sharing gardening wisdom, a well-designed sign makes all the difference.