The Spirit of Life Books and Gathering Place at the SOL House is a literary oasis that encourages the community to gather to read, write and share conversations and journeys to help build a deeper connection with others and themselves.

The SOL House, also known as the Spirit of Life House, has had a few different occupants throughout the years but recently was renovated and reimagined as a place where people can come to do spiritual work, meet as groups or by themselves and enjoy a quiet and serene space to unwind and embrace something new.

The Rev. Richard Lightsey, who oversees the nonprofit, is excited to see the impact this space can have on the community.

“It started with just the whole concept of being here for people in their personal growth,” said Lightsey. “Whether that be soul growth or physical health, or just a positive place for the community, we want it to be a space where any and everyone feels welcome.”

Guests can enter and will immediately be greeted by a volunteer hosting the space. Then they can wander through the cozy space, filled with books ranging in topics from creativity and learning something new, to books on cooking, history, wellness, leadership and other literature that promotes self-development.

This nonprofit operates on donations from groups that use the space and from people who want to purchase a book to take home, according to Lightsey. Books are also received on a donation basis, so if you’re interested in donating a book that helped you on your journey in life, you can pass it along to the SOL Books and Gathering Place.

According to an informational pamphlet, “We believe the spirit of life emanates from the deeper places of mindful words and thoughtful conversation invoked by writers, artists, thinkers, builders and healers of the world. We have created a place to share their journeys in books, art and photography to inspire everyone to pursue the spirit of their own life.”

Children, adults and everyone in between are invited to the SOL House from Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and as more volunteers can take shifts at SOL Books, Lightsey hopes to be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Events and specific groups can use the space for a donation to the nonprofit. Contact Lightsey at 765-438-6718 or click here for more information on this addition to the Kokomo community.

SOL Books and Gathering Place is located next to Rhum Academy of Music, across from Foster Park at 510 W. Superior St., in Kokomo.

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