In an effort to inspire students to read more, a New York school installed a vending machine that dispenses free books—instead of candy.
Arthur O. Eve School of Distinction #61, in Buffalo, raised $1,000 worth of books for the machine. Children can get a book for free with golden tokens they earn during class. One way to earn tokens is for students to go to the school library and check out books. Buffalo School Board member Sharon Belton-Cottman says that the tokens are not based on behavior or attendance. Everyone will have the opportunity to receive a book, via a monthly rotation of all the students. Now instead of paying for unhealthy snacks, children can choose a free book.
Research shows an imperative need to improve literacy in America, and Buffalo is no different.
“One of the biggest issues we have in this district is literacy. If our children can read, they can survive,” Buffalo School Board member Sharon Belton-Cottman told WBFO.
This is good news all around.
As an author of books for young readers, Buffalo native Dee Romito tweeted her excitement about the concept.
The books span subjects aimed to spark the imagination and education of children. They are available to children in kindergarten through fourth grade. The early years are critical when it comes to children using and enjoying the tools of literacy throughout their lives. Child literacy can be defined as a child being able to read, write and speak the language with confidence. Knowing how to use a computer is another literacy skill that has been added to the list.
Parents and teachers are key when it comes to motivating children to find a natural desire for reading. Some parents read to their unborn babies. Others start reading aloud from the day their babies are born until their children are able to read themselves. Instead of a toy store, parents can bring their children to the child section of a bookstore and tell them they can have any book they choose. It’s almost inevitable the cost of a child’s book will be less than a load of toys, and the rewards can last a lifetime.
We can’t forget the importance of our public libraries, which offer books to read for free, as well as a plethora of fun reading programs for children.
There are also Little Free Libraries, which are small mailbox-style boxes, no taller than the average elementary school student. They can be found outside homes and buildings throughout the country. Little Free Libraries use a “take a book—share a book” concept.
Cheers to the staff and school board of Arthur O. Eve School of Distinction. May this innovative concept of book vending machines spread throughout the country. Any time in which you can encourage a child to read is a good time. It can ultimately affect and benefit every stage and facet of their lives.