North Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) likes to think outside the box when it comes to loaning items to patrons. Books, CDs, DVDs, magazines—they have those by the thousands, sure. But they also loan Chromecasts, umbrellas, bocce ball and croquet sets… and garden plots!
Garden plots are available to be checked out for the season at the LibraryFarm near NOPL’s Cicero branch.
The LibraryFarm’s stated mission is to “provide a place for our community to grow, share, and learn about food literacy and sustainable gardening” (website). While half of the garden is divided into plots that can be “checked out” for the season by individual gardeners (known as Library Plotters), the other half is dedicated to a Community Garden.
Typical events held in conjunction with the LibraryFarm include programs about growing garlic and pumpkins, learning how to eat locally and save money, making holiday arrangements using natural materials, winterizing your garden, and LibraryFarm Theater presentations of acclaimed environmental films.
Winter Potluck & Planning, Harvest Potluck, and various Work Days also provide patrons opportunities to come together, build community, and learn about and share sustainable garden practices.
Click here to learn more or contact LibraryFarm Manager Deanna King. 
