The Poreč City Library in Croatia has recently launched a unique program that allows patrons to borrow seeds along with traditional books. This initiative, known as a 'seed library,' is already common in many Slovenian libraries but is a rarity in Croatia. The service aims to encourage gardening among community members, while also contributing to the preservation of old seed varieties. Currently, users can borrow seeds for common plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and beans, enriching their gardening experience.

One of the first users of this service, Verica Milašinčić, borrowed seeds for her cousin who is an avid gardener. She expressed her enthusiasm for the program, believing it will be a valuable addition to her cousin's gardening endeavors. The borrowing process is designed to be simple and mirrors that of borrowing books, with users able to search a seed catalog online and select the varieties they wish to cultivate before borrowing them using their library membership number.

Overall, this initiative reflects a growing interest in sustainable practices and food security through community involvement. By enabling individuals to grow old varieties of plants, the library is fostering a connection between local culture and food sovereignty, thereby enhancing the role of libraries as community hubs that support both education and environmental sustainability.