Books have forever been at the forefront of the educational process, and that’s why each year the Lucile Pierce Literacy Center sponsors a free book giveaway.

Now through the end of the month local residents are invited to Opp’s Ida Avenue to scour through the endless supply of educational literature, classics, nonfiction, fiction and children’s books.

Marion Powell, who along with her husband, Dr. Jim Powell, run the center, said college students, homeschoolers and “snowbirds at the lake” are the primary ones who utilize the service.

“We recently had a Troy student who got some educational books, “ she said. “She was an elementary education major and planned to use the books as reference materials.”

This is the 10th year the center has offered the program, Jim Powell said.

“We started this program in 2002,” he said. “It’s in conjunction with Rotary International’s literacy month.”

Jim Powell said each year the center gives away “at least 1,000” books.

It’s real easy to giveaway that many books,” he said. “People carry bags out, and some take pickup loads home.”

Those interested in receiving free books can stop by the center  from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., during the weekdays.