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Following Pennsylvania’s best practices for seed libraries helps protect their legal standing and ensures their continued presence in our communities. This is why we have created the PA Seed Alliance program. The strategy of this program is to help align PA seed libraries

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Why Best Practices Matter

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Seed libraries are a powerful tool for biodiversity, food sovereignty, and community education, but they exist within a legal framework that must be respected. In Pennsylvania, the Department of Agriculture has clarified that non-commercial seed libraries are exempt from the Seed Act of 2004, which governs commercial seed distribution. However, this exemption is contingent on libraries following specific best practices: not selling seeds, clearly labeling them as non-commercial, and maintaining transparent records of seed sources and exchanges. By adhering to these guidelines, we preserve the privilege of operating seed libraries without burdensome licensing or testing requirements, and we demonstrate our collective commitment to safe, ethical seed sharing.

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A Look Back: The PA Seed Library Controversy

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In 2014, the Joseph T. Simpson Public Library in Mechanicsburg launched a small seed library that quickly drew attention, not just from local gardeners, but from state regulators. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture initially interpreted the Seed Act to apply to this nonprofit exchange, requiring costly testing and labeling procedures designed for commercial seed sellers. This sparked a statewide outcry and a national conversation about the role of seed libraries in public life. Thanks to advocacy from groups like PASA, Grow Pittsburgh, and the Public Interest Law Center, the state clarified its position: non-commercial seed libraries are not subject to the Seed Act’s commercial provisions. This victory was hard-won, and it’s a reminder that our continued access depends on responsible stewardship.

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Want to Start or Align a Seed Library?

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If you’re interested in launching a seed library, or if you already run one and want to ensure it aligns with Pennsylvania’s best practices, we’re here to help. Whether you’re a librarian, educator, gardener, or community organizer, we can provide guidance on labeling, sourcing, and outreach strategies that meet state standards. Reach out to us to start a conversation, we’d love to support your efforts and help grow a resilient, legally protected seed-sharing network across the Commonwealth.