On Dec. 6 and 7, Southport Memorial Library hosted its annual Christmas Craft Fair. First held in 2004, the fair celebrates the extraordinary crafting talent on and around Southport. Items range from paintings and knitted goods to jewelry, Christmas ornaments and more. Most of this year’s crafters set up their goods Friday but did not stay to sell – something the library staff are happy to facilitate.

“We love hosting the fair, and with the crafters donating 20% of their takings to the library it’s a nice fundraiser for us,” said longtime librarian, now retired, and trustee Linda Brewer.

Among those who did stay to chat and sell were Nancy Prisk, the artist behind Southport Silver; and Anne Gobes of Cape Newagen Alpaca Farm.

As well as raising funds, the fair attracts new visitors to the library. “We used to hold a Christmas open house event,” said Brewer. “It was nice but really didn’t attract new people, and that was important. The fair brings in new people, both local and visiting, and that’s always good.”

The crafts were all handmade, the only requirement for taking part, and there were many opportunities to buy some unique Christmas gifts.

If you missed the event, many of the items are still on display and for sale until Christmas during regular library hours, Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 pm. and 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.