“The World of Wooden Bobbins” is a book about, well, bobbins. Much of the material provided for the production of the book was supplied by experts on the subject: Ann and Dirk Poole of Newcastle.

The Pooles recently opened a new retail business in Newcastle called Milling Around. Among the eclectic collectible items in their shop are old wooden bobbins.

In the mid 1900s when plastic bobbins started coming into play, the traditional wooden bobbin slowly began to fade into the background.

As stated in the book, wooden bobbins had become commonplace by that time, and had little value, even as firewood, because of the high oil content that would cause them to burn uncontrollably. Millions were destroyed and buried in landfills.

Now, as they become increasingly rare, wooden bobbins are becoming increasingly valuable.

Dirk Poole's parents were the reason he and Ann became interested in bobbins.

Jim and Wendy Poole started a business called Ma's Bobbin Works in 1975. Still run by Dirk and Ann Poole, the Nobleboro company deals in wholesale and online sales of bobbins of all shapes and sizes that have been transformed into candlesticks, jump ropes, pens and kaleidoscopes.

Now the younger Pooles have opened a new shop in Newcastle.

The pair bought the former bank building at 67 Main Street in Newcastle in May, and began renovations to make it the bright, open, airy spot it is now.

Aside from the wooden bobbins they are known for, the Pooles sell antiques and gift items, mostly locally made.

“We carry a lot items from Custom Cordage (in Waldoboro), who makes rope mats and baskets. We have developed a relationship with them because we supply the bobbins for their rope machines,” Dirk Poole said.

There are exquisite woven blankets made by Nanne Kennedy of The Maine Blanket in Washington, Maine; and intricately designed glass mosaic trays and painted objects, such as old saws, by Liz Martone of EFM Studio in Portland.

At the entrance to the shop, apropos to the season, are three jack-o-lanterns, carved in stones. The pumpkins and the garden benches, among other stone items, are made by Ethan Wajer of Wajer Landscaping & Stoneworks in Newcastle.

The Pooles have lived in the area for 29 years and have two daughters.

The phone number for Milling Around is 207-563-1210, website is www.woodenbobbins.com, and email address is ma@woodenbobbins.com.