Vending

Ohio school district adds book vending machines

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August 27, 2026

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Hamilton City School District in Ohio has installed book vending machines at all seven of its elementary schools, according to a Local 12 News report, giving students a new way to earn books while encouraging reading. Students at Ridgeway Elementary began using their machine on Aug. 25, with the equipment funded through a donation from home service company Thomas & Galbraith.

The schools are using books as rewards for students who complete and turn in all of their homework. Ridgeway Elementary Principal Ryan Britton said allowing children to select books they enjoy and take them home can encourage them to read repeatedly while strengthening literacy efforts at school.

School officials also hope the program will help students develop personal libraries at home rather than simply providing books for use at school. Thomas & Galbraith plans to contribute thousands of dollars over the next several years to help keep the vending machines stocked with books.