Studies have shown that access to books in the home helps build academic success. The Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) strives to provide all kids with access to books, including those that might be in a tough situation. The solution – book vending machines – strategically placed in locations that might be difficult or challenging spaces for a child or teen.
The first book vending machine in Allegheny County is at the Allegheny County Jail. Any child or teen visiting an incarcerated loved one will receive a token to choose a free book at the vending machine. The book selection includes a variety of classics (Goodnight Moon, Because of Winn-Dixie), formats (picture books, graphic novels, chapter books) and titles where the child or teen might see themselves reflected in the main character. The book vending machine at the jail features two titles with an incarcerated parent, a title in Spanish and in July will have an autographed edition of Wicked Marigold by local author, Caroline Carlson.
Moving forward, additional vending machines will be placed in other locations throughout the county. The titles in each machine will reflect the location and the challenges faced there by the child or teen. ACLA hopes that these books are a bright spot for these children in what might be a scary or unhappy time.
This month’s segment of Books & Beyond on Pittsburgh Today Live with Heather Abraham and David Highfield features the vending machine at the Allegheny County Jail. To watch the full segment, click here. The book for this month’s segment is Nothing Bad Happens Here, a beach thriller for teens and adults. The title is also written by local author, RAchel Ekstrom Courage and while the book takes place on Nantucket, there are mentions of South Side and Schenley Park since the main character is from Pittsburgh. Limited copies of the book are available, so if interested complete this survey after watching the segment. Check ACLA Youth Services on Facebook for book discussion questions regarding this book.
Learn more about book vending machines by following ACLA Youth Services on Facebook.