Old Fort’s Programs

Posted by mcpl on 26 June 24

Seed Library & Propagation Station

Posted by mcpl on 16 June 22

Welcome to our Seed Library, a community initiative run by our local  McDowell Master Gardeners and local volunteers. Our Seed Library offers a diverse selection of gardening seeds free of charge for anyone in the community to take and use in their gardens. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, we welcome you to explore our collection and discover new varieties to grow.

How it Works:

1. Browse our collection of seeds, conveniently organized by type.

2. Select the seeds you’d like to grow and take them home with you, free of charge.

3. Plant your seeds, nurture your plants, and watch them thrive in your garden.

4. Harvest and enjoy your homegrown produce, and consider saving seeds from your healthiest plants for future seasons.

5. If you’re able, consider donating seeds from your own garden to help replenish our library and keep it thriving for others in the community.

Our Seed Library is a celebration of biodiversity and a testament to the power of community collaboration in nurturing our shared environment. We hope you’ll join us in this wonderful gardening adventure and help us grow together!

As an additional resource, we offer seed cleaning screens available for borrowing. These screens make it easy to clean and prepare seeds harvested from your garden for future planting. Simply ask the front desk staff to borrow a seed cleaning screen, follow the instructions provided, and ensure your seeds are ready for storage and sharing with fellow gardeners.

Propagation Station

Visit our Propagation Station, located next to the Seed Library.

What is plant propagation?

Plant propagations are pieces, or cuttings, from plants that grow their own root systems and become new plants.

Want to adopt cuttings?

• Spray a paper towel with water.
• Remove a cutting from a cup, and wrap the plant roots gently in the paper towel.
• Place the wrapped roots in a plastic bag.
• When you get home, continue to grow the cutting in water or plant it in well-draining soil in a pot with drainage holes.

Want to donate cuttings?

• We take houseplants or indoor herbs only.
• Please no soil or potted plants.
• Please root the cuttings in water before donating them.
• Cuttings must be healthy and free of pests or disease.
• Pour water into one of the donations cups. Record your donation in the notebook and include care tips plus the cup’s number where you place your donation.

Books By Mail

Posted by mcpl on 04 September 20

📚Books by Mail Program

Launching August 20th!

Our Books by Mail service brings library materials straight to your mailbox, FREE of charge, for eligible McDowell County Public Library patrons.

📬What is Books by Mail?

Books by Mail is a service for library card holders who are physically or visually unable to visit the library in person. Whether you’re homebound due to disability or a long-term health condition, we’re here to make sure library resources are still within reach.

✅ Who is Eligible?

To qualify, you must:

• Have a McDowell County Public Library card
• Have a physical or visual disability that prevents you from visiting       the library
• Reside within McDowell County

📝 How to Sign Up

1. Fill out an application:

• Here 
• Download the application form
• Call us at (828) 653-3858 to request an application by mail
• Or stop by the library to pick up a printed copy

2. Submit your completed application:

Mail to:

McDowell County Public Library                                                            90 West Court St. Marion, NC 28752

Return in person

Or submit the form above.

📅 When Does it Start?

Deliveries begin August 20th, 2025. Sign up now to be part of the first mailing!

📖 Questions?

📞 Call us at (828) 652-3858

📧 Email us at hgrant@mcdowellpubliclibrary.org

⬇️ Or leave a message below

We’re happy to help!