PITTSFIELD, Mass. – The Berkshire Seed Library at the Berkshire Athenaeum can help people get their gardens growing for free.

The library has seeds for several varieties of more than 20 fruits, vegetables and flowers.

People can ‘check-out’ up to 10 packets per family per season using a library card from any of the member libraries in central and western Massachusetts.

Many of the seeds are donated by local growers including the Pittsfield Community Garden Program and the selection changes throughout the season.

Berkshire Athenaeum outreach librarian Alicia Hyman said with the costs of groceries rising, the seed library can help families save by encouraging them to learn how to grow their own food.

"Produce is always really expensive no matter what and it can be hard to find good produce," said Hyman. "Everybody want their meals to bright and colorful and healthy, and this is a great, really interactive way to do that. You’re really getting involved, learning about what you’re putting in your mouth and growing it from literally the seeds."

For those interested in taking up gardening, the library also hosts free events to help teach people the basics. More information can be found at pittsfieldlibrary.org.