Whether it be of necessity or pleasure, reading is a past-time that you can do at any time and anywhere. Pennie Hancock, co-owner of Saltwater Country in Bay Bulls, is an avid reader and was inspired to bring a little of her passion to others. You can find a nautical inspired Little Free Library at 801 Southern Shore Highway just outside the Saltwater Country storefront.
The Little Free Library idea originated in the U.S and has gone worldwide since its start in 2009. The idea is that users can borrow books to read and alternately drop off any books from home that they have already read. The Little Free Library is particularly appealing to people who are visiting the Irish Loop area and want to spend some leisure time reading while staying at a local Bed and Breakfast, said Hancock. In addition, locals can exchange books and get new titles without having to travel too far. Hancock plans to expand the library over time to have a children’s and teen book section as well as a selection of locally written titles. Saltwater Country’s Little Free Library is open 24 hours a day, rain or shine.
In addition to the Little Free Library, Saltwater Country will be hosting a start up Quilt guild this upcoming fall. There are currently nine established Quilt Guilds in Newfoundland and Labrador but neither one on the Southern Shore. What is a quilt guild you may ask? Simply put, a quilt guild is a group of quilters who get together to discuss and craft all things “quilt.” As this is a start up guild, Hancock said they are looking for members who wish to be active and involved to fulfill executive roles as well as those who wish to be involved solely from a learning and friendship perspective. A quilt guild offers ample opportunity to meet with other quilters and crafters to learn new skills, to volunteer, participate in a community-based activity, and very importantly, work on the time-honored tradition of quilting, she added. The first meeting of the Quilt Guild will be on Tuesday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Saltwater Country in Bay Bulls.
“We would ‘sew’ love to see you there,” said Hancock.
