It’s called The Cottage Library, but it’s much more than that. It’s a bookstore. It’s a reading room. And, it is the legacy of Jean Cecil who passed away in October of last year. Because of Cecil’s involvement in bringing this integral area to life, the volunteers at The Cottage have dedicated the room to her memory.
Now called Jean’s Room, the library continues to be a family labor of love. Her husband, Bill, determined where in this converted old house the library should be located and haunted garage sales for usable book shelves. Cecil’s twin sister, Jacque Knechtges volunteers as one of the librarians.
The books are organized, the sitting room is comfortable and all books are 50 percent off on Fridays.
“We sell lots of books,” volunteer and Panhandle Special Needs, Inc. board member Lois Miller said. “People come in and head straight up the stairs to the library. Some people come in just to sit and read. I think it’s one of the nicest libraries in town.
“It’s a pleasure to honor Jean and Bill,” Miller said. “We wanted to show our appreciation for this lovely library. They put their heart and soul into this place and we’re thankful and grateful.”
The Cottage, 1410 North Boyer, is a unique thrift store whose proceeds benefit PSNI. It’s staffed by volunteers and twenty PSNI clients who get a hands-on education about sorting merchandise, customer service and the general operations of a retail store.
Household goods including furniture, artwork, crafts, knick knacks and housewares fill the downstairs and the amazing collection of books that include a rare 98-volume set of Louis L’Amour novels (for sale at $495) is up a short flight of stairs.
Also upstairs, long-time volunteer Sarah Roemhildt has several copies of her book of inspirational photography and poetry for sale. If you want a signed copy, Roemhildt volunteers on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Cottage is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations, except clothing, mattresses, computers and TVs, are gratefully accepted.