This Spring I want to build, install, and stock free seed and plant exchange libraries in the most food-insecure wards in D.C.

I believe everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food and the right to have agency in their own food systems. Through the Living Library initiative we aim to create a resilient, community-driven food system where neighbors not only access the tools to grow their own food but also actively contribute to sustaining this project for the future.

The Living Library will feature "Little Free Libraries" stocked with seeds, and seedlings. Each library will also include a QR code linking to a virtual library with e-books and instructional videos on urban gardening. This combination of physical and virtual resources aims to guide individuals from planting to harvest, regardless of their gardening experience. Each library will also have an attached self-seeding garden planted with aromatic herbs anyone can harvest and pollinator-attracting native wildflowers.

I'm partnering with Community Forklift, Little Free Library, local artists, and businesses to create and host the libraries. Seeds and seedlings will be restocked monthly through generous donations from seed companies. Eventually, the initiative will rely on community contributions, allowing the libraries to become self-sustaining while continuing to provide ongoing support.