Vending

Louisiana elementary school offers book vending to reward students

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April 14, 2026

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Evangeline Elementary in Lafayette, La., has introduced a book vending machine in its library, giving students a new incentive to read by rewarding academic milestones with books they can keep, according to an Acadiana Advocate report.

Students earn tokens by meeting goals such as reading a set number of words, completing books or achieving accelerated reading targets, which they can redeem for a book of their choice.

School leaders said the initiative is designed to encourage reading both in and out of the classroom while helping students build personal home libraries. Early participants selected a range of titles reflecting diverse interests, from popular fiction series to books focused on social and environmental themes.

Principal Felise Williams said the program offers a unique opportunity to reinforce literacy as a lifelong skill. She noted that watching enthusiastic readers use the machine first could inspire others to follow, emphasizing that consistent reading helps students develop stronger comprehension and academic abilities.

Atmos Energy donated the vending machine through its Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities program, which supports literacy initiatives. Company officials said the partnership aligns with a broader commitment to education and community development, while school leaders said the program underscores the importance of access to books and student engagement in reading.