Growing food. Growing confidence. Growing community.
Our Roots
What began in 2025 as a small dream to inspire people to grow their own food has blossomed into a community-centered seed library powered by passion and purpose.
SWLA Seed Library is a free community program committed to cultivating connections and educating our neighbors about growing, harvesting, and saving seeds. By encouraging Lake Area residents to garden, we aim to reconnect our community to the traditions of growing healthy, delicious food.
We are located at the Epps Memorial Branch of the Calcasieu Parish Public Library and features a seasonal collection of fruit, vegetable, and pollinator seeds that community members can “borrow” to plant and grow at home.
What Drives Us
We believe gardening should be fun, accessible, and empowering — no matter your space, skill level, or background.
Through education, encouragement, and hands-on learning, we’re helping people:
- Grow their own food
- Build food security
- Reconnect with nature
- Rediscover the joy of gardening
Meet the Team
This program is a family-led labor of love.
- Tam is the visionary behind the big picture and leads program development, partnerships, and media presence.
- Channing ensures our technology function seamlessly.
- Dee brings the brand to life through thoughtful design and creative direction, keeping everything rooted in purpose and style.
Our Mission
To cultivate community connections and empower Southwest Louisiana residents to grow, harvest, and share food through accessible seeds, education, and encouragement.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every community in Southwest Louisiana has access to a seed library, locally adapted seeds, and practical gardening education. We believe seed saving and seed sharing strengthen regional food systems, preserve genetic diversity, and maintain meaningful connections to history, culture, and community.
How the Seed Library Works
- Operates on an honor system
- Seeds are available first-come, first-served
- Open early February through late October
- Select no more than 2 packets per person
- Each packet contains enough seeds to grow 3–5 plants
- Seeds are not returned — instead, show us what you grow!
📸 Share photos of your plants on our social media to inspire others in the community.
Workshops & Classes
2026 Class Schedule Coming Soon!
- Workshops offered Spring and Fall
- Topics include beginner gardening, seasonal planting, and seed saving
- Family-friendly and beginner-focused
👉 Stay updated by joining our newsletter, Deeply Rooted!
Gardening Resources
Not sure when or how to plant? These trusted Louisiana-based resources can help:
- Louisiana Vegetable Planting Guide
A downloadable guide with recommended varieties, planting dates, and fertilizer tips for North and South Louisiana. - Plant Disease Management Guide
Information on common Louisiana plant diseases and prevention strategies. - Home Composting Class (Free)
A self-guided, 10-module course with a completion certificate.
Get Involved
Volunteer Opportunities
We welcome volunteers to help with:
- Packaging seeds
- Refilling the seed library
- Supporting workshops and community events
Complete the Volunteer Form today!
Donate & Support
We are seeking donations from:
- Seed companies
- Local nurseries
- Corporate partners
Donations may include:
- Bulk or packaged seeds
- Gift cards
- Workshop or event giveaways
To ensure safety and compliance, we are not currently accepting seeds from home gardens. However, we will host twice-yearly community seed swaps, so save those seeds if you’d like to participate!
🛒 We also have an Amazon Wishlist to support program needs.
Sponsors
Thank you to the following organizations for helping bring this program to life:
- Louisiana Food Policy
- USA TODAY Co.
- Freedom Farms
Better Together Solutions 