Photos submitted
Bookworms, storytellers and poets take note — Love’s Healing Reading Room is officially opening this September 22. Located just south of Killaloe, the reading room is open to lovers of all things book-related.
Housed in a cozy building with two levels of comforting space, the lower level is delightfully decorated with original artwork and features a writing desk, easy chairs, wood-burning stove and tea-making facilities. It is the perfect place for quiet contemplation, writing and reading. Upstairs you’ll discover a thousand books to explore, shelved by category. Note that a reading room differs from a library—books are not loaned out, but instead must be read and enjoyed at the reading room.
Lower level of reading room
This remarkably unique treasure was bestowed upon us by the late George Finney Linn, III. George served the Kingston community as a psychiatrist for cancer patients and their families. As part of his practice he spent many years travelling to Renfrew County to work as a psychiatrist in conjunction with the community mental health workers across the county from Pembroke to Barry’s Bay. He was also a skilled paddler & whitewater river guide. During his visits to the Valley he enjoyed paddling the lakes and rivers.
George loved and cared deeply for everyone. As such, it is through the generosity of his spirit, that we are now the recipients of his lifelong book collection—poetry to delight, as well as a vast array of other topics—all of which called out to him in one way or another throughout his lifetime. George felt that books were his friends and now his dream has come true — to be able to share his friends with you.
Reading room building
Love’s Healing Reading Room is a place of quiet contemplation and visitors are invited to enjoy the surrounding gardens, pond and walking trails. The Starlight Chalet Garden Society maintains a beautiful perennial and vegetable garden, which Reading Room guests are welcome to enjoy. You may find yourself wandering through the garden, book in hand, to find a peaceful reading spot near the pond on the edge of the property, or you might find yourself on the hill overlooking the gardens.
Visitors are always welcome at Love’s Healing Reading Room. Please email in advance to ensure the space is available.
The official opening takes place Saturday September 22, 12 noon to 4 pm. There will be a dedication and live poetry. Please RSVP for the opening event at loveshealingreadingroom@gmail.com
2018 (Sept 6) New reading room officially opens in Old Killaloe [Press release].
Congratulations Jackie, what an absolutely wonderful tribute to George. He is surely smiling when he sees his dream come to life. There is a peace and gentleness that resides in Loves Healing Reading room, you can feel it right away upon entering. George’s gentle spirit is there. I will always remember his service and kindness to Valley Manor and its people. Thank you George, thank you Jackie. xo