Read by the Sea is run by a volunteer committee of book-lovers along the north shore of Nova Scotia from Pugwash to Pictou. Our mission is to bring fine writers and writing to our rural area. In the year 2000, with the help and support of the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library, a clutch of three women conceived of the idea and mounted the inaugural festival. Despite a total lack experience, very little knowledge and a miniscule budget, the festival was a great hit. Over the next few years we set out to build a solid foundation for the festival. Now with seven committee members, lots of community support, and a list of sponsors, the festival is flourishing. We have recently expanded our offerings to include The Village Series, which brings year-round readings to villages along the north shore.