Vending

Lynx Bookstore to launch book vending machine at Gainesville Airport

Photo: Adobe Stock

June 23, 2025

The Lynx Bookstore is set to launch a book vending machine at Gainesville Regional Airport on Thursday, June 26, at 4 p.m., according to a Main Street Daily News report. The unveiling will coincide with a meeting of the Gainesville-Alachua County Regional Airport Authority Board.

The initiative aims to expand access to literature and promote Florida's rich literary heritage to the approximately 500,000 annual visitors at the airport. Founded by three-time National Book Award finalist Lauren Groff and Clay Kallman, The Lynx Bookstore emphasizes celebrating the state's literary tradition and making books accessible.

"[It's] more than just a vending machine; it is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Florida," Groff told the news outlet.

The machine will feature works by notable Florida authors such as Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Ernest Hemingway, Karen Russell and Judy Blume. Its exterior will be custom-wrapped with artwork by Hunter Turner, owner of High Springs-based design company Old Florida Vibes, depicting a large lynx. Turner expressed his honor in creating art that welcomes visitors and locals while supporting The Lynx Bookstore's mission to preserve and protect the written word.

Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward is expected to be among the notable guests at the unveiling event.