Southport Memorial Library has two events planned for the first week in August that should tempt both residents and visitors to take a drive out to the end of Southport.

On Tuesday, Aug 2, the famous “two old cops,” as they call themselves, will give a book talk and signing at 7 p.m. at the library. And on Friday, Aug. 5 the library will hold its 89th annual Book and Bake Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The “two old cops” are John Ford Sr., a former Maine State Warden and Sheriff of Waldo County, and Mark Nickerson, a long-time Maine State Trooper. They will regale the audience with tales both humorous and poignant about law enforcement “back in the day.” As Ford says, “you just can’t make this stuff up.”

Nickerson has written two books, “Blue Lights in the Night” and “Behind the Blue Lights” about his experiences as a trooper.

Ford’s latest book, “Deer in the Lights,” tells more funny stories of life as a warden and sheriff, following his two previous best-sellers, “Suddenly the Cider Didn’t Taste so Good,” and “The Cider Still Tastes Funny.”

The titles alone should entice you to come for an evening of stories about human nature that will make you laugh and cry. It’s what we need right now to give us a break from all the political news that’s not fit to print! That’s Tuesday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m.

On Friday, Aug. 5, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., the Book and Bake Sale will once again fill the library with tables of bargain books and home made goodies. This annual event has been on the library’s calendar since 1927 and is a favorite of many summer visitors as well as local residents. Come early as those “in the know” line up before the doors open for their favorite fresh-baked pies and cookies. In earlier years the books would be displayed on tables on the lawn, but now the sale is held inside so rain will never threaten. You’ll find every topic from World War II to quilting. Best-seller novels, non-fiction, do-it-yourself books (both hard back and paperback) and many more are offered at bargain prices. A special room with children’s books offers something for every age. This event is a major fundraiser, so all are encouraged to come and support Southport’s treasured library.

Take home a book or two, and get acquainted with our services. The Southport Memorial Library is open year-round, Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m and 7-9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and in summer on Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. WiFi is available on our computers or your own. The library has a collection of more than 48,000 books as well as a current selection of movies on DVD and audio books on CD. Librarian Linda Brewer knows where every book is and she can also tell you tales of the history of Southport Island and introduce you to our outstanding collection of books on Maine.

Why not spend a day on Southport on Friday, Aug. 5. Come to the library first, then stop at the Newagen Town Landing to see our Cuckold’s Lighthouse, or Hendrick’s Head Beach to stick your feet in the water for a few minutes. Restaurants at Newagen Seaside Inn, Robinson’s Wharf and Oliver’s in Cozy Harbor offer lunch with dramatic views of the water.

The Southport Memorial Library is located at the tip of Southport Island in the village of Newagen. Cross the Southport Bridge, turn immediately to the left on Route 238, and drive 3.7 miles to the end of the island. For more information on the book talk, book sale, or just the library itself, call 633-5666 and ask for Linda Brewer.