Proud to be from Pittsburgh: Book ‘Em

PITTSBURGH — A different kind of library is working out of the basement of the Thomas Merton Center: one that is full of books, but never has any checked out.

The books at the center get packaged, weighed and mailed to 160 inmates a month at state and federal prisons in Pennsylvania.

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The program called Book ‘Em, is run by volunteers who believe while prisoners may be physically locked up, a book can free their minds.

“That keeps me going -- when I think how important it is to these men and women to get books and know someone is thinking about them,” said Suzanne Powell, co-director of Book ‘Em.

Former inmate Frank Sobolcik, now volunteers at Book ‘Em as a way to give back, after he received a package during his time behind bars.

“You can become very depressed. Reading is what kept my mind calm,” said Sobolcik.

Book ‘Em gets approximately 1,900 book requests from prisoners a year, but are only able to fill about half of those due to needing more help, books and money for postage.

According to volunteer Jeanne Gounars, it’s the thank-you letters that keep this organization going.

“We don't have enough to mail all the requests we get, and sometimes I just think I can't do this any longer. And then I get a letter like this and I know how much it means to the men and women behind bars,” said Gounars.

To volunteer, donate or learn more about Book ‘Em, click here to visit their official website.

Cox Media Group