The Bookman

Nine million books have been donated from a location on El Cajon Boulevard at 37th Street. Not a bird, not a plane, it's the Bookman! For almost 18 years, ever since Irwin Herman retired and moved to San Diego, he and his wife Shirley, along with four magnificent volunteers, distribute books to whomever needs one, two or two thousand.

They began their book service with donations to jails and now offer books to schools, mental health services and homeless shelters. Essentially any group is invited to come on over with lots of boxes. San Diego City College alone receives 5,000 books every week. As long as people around the world can handle the packing and shipping, the Bookman team is happy to provide an international service as well.

The Bookman believes that all his books are heaven sent, and with the generous donations from community book stores, who can argue the difference? He also has a budget of $60-80,000 to spend on books yearly.

Speaking of donations, Jack Grace, owner of what was once a Bekins warehouse on 37th Street at El Cajon Boulevard, presently the headquarters of Bookman's operation, has never charged a penny for rent or electricity and contributes up to $3000 every year. Jack says, "I love what you do, and I love being part of it."

For the love of books, three cheers for the Bookman. For more information, check out the website, www.thebookman.org.