Vending

Connecticut bookstore dispenses Richard Scarry-inspired art from vending machine

Photo: Adobe Stock

September 25, 2025

A bookstore in Milford is using a vending machine to sell small pieces of art inspired by the children's author Richard Scarry. Mermaid Books recently installed the machine, which dispenses prints by artist Anastasia Inciardi for one dollar, according to a ctpost report.

Inciardi's art re-creates characters from Scarry's books, such as Lowly Worm. The vending machine contains 11 different prints, and each purchase is a random piece.

The independent bookstore is the only location in Connecticut to have one of these machines. Other stores with the vending machine are located in New York and Maine.

Mermaid Books owner Kristin Mascia said she applied to be a vendor after seeing Inciardi's work online.

"Her work is so joyful and whimsical and fun, and I think it's for the time that we're living through," Mascia told the news outlet. "People have come from all over the state and even further afield so far to experience it."

Scarry, who died in 1994, was a Connecticut resident and his work has been featured in the Fairfield Museum and History Center. Mermaid Books expects to have the limited-edition prints for at least the next few months.