In 2023, Stapleton Elementary faced a reading proficiency challenge. Only 55% of students met the mark. Recognizing the need for a change, staff sought an innovative solution. Today, they unveiled Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine. It’s already getting kids excited about reading. Teachers are counting on it to boost test scores too.

Elementary school in Rio Rancho unveils book vending machine - KOB.com

A Novel Solution at Stapleton Elementary

Lynn Clark, a first-grade teacher, saw the book vending machine on social media. Clark realized its potential as a powerful incentive. She approached the librarian, exclaiming, “We need this!”

Laraine Hostetler, the school librarian, is proud of instilling a love for reading and learning in students.

“Everything that I do is to get kids excited about reading.” Hostetler said.

Here’s How It Works

The unique feature of the book machine lies in its operation. Students earn gold coins through good attendance, behavior, or performing kind acts. A weekly drawing motivates students to participate

The school emphasizes the importance of showing “coyote pride,”. This means being respectful, responsible, showing empathy, and compassion. The book machine initiative aligns with these values.

Student Involvement

Teachers want to involve students in the book selection process. A list has been established in the school library. Here, kids can jot down their preferred book choices. This ensures a diverse and engaging collection in the vending machine.

Setting the Trend

Currently, Stapleton is the only school in the area with a book vending machine. Staff hope their program inspires other schools to implement similar programs. Their long term goal is fostering a community-wide passion for reading.

Bring Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine To Your School


Interested in bringing Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine to your school? Reach out to bookvending.com today. Our literacy experts are ready to help.

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