Author: Jennifer Robinson

Knowlton is getting a new café—La Joie de Lire / The Joy of Reading—located below Brome Lake Books on Lakeside.

Author Louise Penny, who is launching the café, says it is inspired by the bistro in her best-selling books, with armchairs and a relaxed atmosphere for people who want to read and unwind with a coffee, croissant, or pastry. The café will connect to the bookstore via a staircase and will also have a separate entrance at the parking lot level beside Coldbrook.

Penny emphasizes that she is not trying to compete with other cafés in town. Instead, her vision is to create a unique space for book lovers.

“As I travel the world on book tour, one of my favorite things is to find an independent bookstore, buy a book, and go to the café that is so often attached to it. There seems to be a natural synergy between reading and coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.”

With no prior experience running a café, Penny is grateful for the support she has received from local businesspeople.

• Contractor: Victor Patenaude
• Designer: Kirk Lawrence
• Café Expertise & Guidance: The owners of Buzz
• Coffee Machine & Training: Virgin Hill
• Specialty Coffee Blend: A unique ‘Three Pines’ blend, with proceeds supporting dementia care

Penny says that Brome Lake Books, Raffields, Caron et Frères, and La Knowlton Co. have all been incredibly supportive of the project.

“My plan is to encourage patrons to also visit Buzz, Raffields, Caron, and La Knowlton Co. to enjoy full meals and their hospitality.”

Without a doubt, Penny’s worldwide literary success has made her one of Knowlton’s greatest tourist attractions.

“…People come from all over the world to visit this area and experience Gamache and the village. This café will reflect the warmth, welcome, and sense of belonging that we all feel in the Townships and in the other eateries.”