KULPMONT - For those who are looking to pick up some reading material this summer, 860 Oak St., is the place to go.
In a little garage area at the home of Walter Lutz, more than 400 books sit on several tables and racks waiting for someone to read them.
"I wish I had a couple more racks, because we have a few more books in the garage," Lutz said.
When Lutz, inspired by a news report on a similar project last summer, began the Kulpmont Lending Library, there were approximately 300 books available from his own collection and from donations. With the help of Mount Carmel Area senior Cathy Fletcher and the public, the library now has 700 books available.
Lutz's idea is simple: Bring out the books on nice days and hope someone takes advantage of discovering something new to read.
"There is nothing to sign. Just take a book that catches your eye and bring it back when your are done with it, or bring one of your own to enjoy," Lutz said.
Student Mary Scopeletti is a fan of the Kulpmont Lending Library, traveling from Elysburg to check out the books at Lutz' home.
"I love coming here, because there are so many books. Over the summer, I could read a book a day," Scopeletti said.
"If all this inspires a love of reading in someone, then it's all worth it," Lutz said.
To celebrate the opening, Lutz wrote letters to more than 100 people asking if they had a favorite author or book that inspired them. Lutz said he will post the responses.
One letter he received came from former Super Bowl MVP Kurt Warner, who said the book that inspired him the most is the Holy Bible.
The Bible can be found at Lutz's location, along with the Physicians Desk Reference and a good mix of fiction and nonfiction.
"I have a table and chairs here that someone can just sit here and lose themselves in a good book," Lutz said.