Urbana Elementary School is turning reading into an exciting reward for students with the addition of a new book vending machine, designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading among children in kindergarten through fifth grade.
The unique initiative was made possible through the school’s successful Scholastic Book Fairs over the past several years. By saving Scholastic dollars earned through those events, staff and students were able to purchase the machine, transforming community support into a lasting resource for young readers.
“This has been something we’ve been working toward for a while,” said principal Melanie Anders. “Our families have been incredibly supportive of our book fairs, and it’s rewarding to see those efforts come back to students in such a meaningful way.”
Students played an active role in shaping the project from the start. They met with Anders to share their favorite titles and suggest books they were excited to read. During recent book fairs, students also created wish lists, helping guide the selection of books that now fill the machine.
The vending machine officially launched in early March, coinciding with Read Across America activities and the school’s monthlong Read-a-Thon fundraiser. The timing helped build enthusiasm around reading while offering students an immediate and tangible incentive.
Students can now earn special “gold coins” to use in the machine by meeting reading goals, showing perseverance in the classroom, or even being “caught reading” during free time. The reward system not only encourages positive behavior but also fosters a deeper connection to reading.
Beyond the excitement, the program is addressing an important need.
“For students whose families can’t always afford books at the Book Fair or may not have many books at home, this is truly a win-win for everyone,” Anders said.
She recalled a moment that underscored the impact of the initiative.
“I had one student come to me and say she wanted to earn a book to take home to read to her little brother because she didn’t have any books of her own,” Anders shared. “It really made me stop and think about how many of our kids truly want to read more or share what they’re learning, but simply don’t have the resources at home.”
By putting books directly into students’ hands, the vending machine helps build both literacy skills and confidence—while ensuring more children have access to books they can call their own.
“Our goal is to build lifelong readers,” Anders said. “This gives students something to work toward while also putting great books directly into their hands.”
Since its arrival, student excitement has been evident, with many eager to earn their first coin and select a book to take home and keep.
With this creative approach, Urbana Elementary continues to foster a culture where reading is celebrated—and where every student has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and fall in love with reading, one book at a time.
Community members interested in supporting the program can contact Principal Melanie Anders at [email protected] or 937-653-1453.
