Our Story

Nov 27, 2018

The first Inchy the Bookworm vending machine was unveiled in the atrium of a local Buffalo school. Inside, students looked on in anticipation. Each one clutched a shiny golden token in their hand. Watching in amazement were parents, teachers, and local media outlets who came to the event unsure of what to expect.

One at a time, students happily traded their golden token for a shiny new book! A book to keep for their at home library. Once received, students would spin around and hoist the book triumphantly above their heads. Each of them was grinning ear to ear. No one in the crowd had ever seen a student so excited over receiving a book. It was in that moment that I knew that we were on to something truly special.

She Got Everyone Talking About Us

A local author gave us a shout-out online. She loved the idea! Soon, Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine went viral! Hundreds of schools reached out wondering how they could get one of their very own.

Customizations to the inside and outside of the machine were evolving. As excitement build, Educators started organizing ribbon-cutting ceremonies to introduce their new Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine to the community. These now famous ribbon cuttings often garnered local and even national media coverage, often making these events go viral. It seemed like everyone was talking about us!

Since 2018, we have worked with Non profits such as Education Foundation, The United Way, Kiwanis Club, Boys and Girls Club and many others. Philanthropists have also helped our communities and schools as well.

 

Dollar General Literacy Foundation

Now You Know About Us Too

Our mission is to promote literacy by engaging students with our Inchy the bookworm token in the machine and watching their favorite book drop in anticipation of receiving it. These books can be taken home and placed in their home library.

We are extremely encouraged by the thousands of Parent Groups, Educators, and nonprofits who have told us the difference it has made in a child’s life. We hope to continue serving the educational system and helping do our part in enhancing the reading experience for kids everywhere.

Most importantly, we’re hoping that your community will be the next chapter in our collective story.

Sincerely,
Jay Blumberg