Most people have experienced the thrill of typing in a code and hearing the sound of a food or drink item hitting the bottom of a vending machine. What if we told you there’s a way to experience the same excitement for book lovers?

Book vending machines are becoming popular among libraries and schools nationwide, and the North Dakota State Library has been leading by example. Here’s everything you need to know about book vending machines and what the North Dakota State Library has been doing to make books more accessible.

What Are Book Vending Machines?

As their name implies, book vending machines allow library patrons to access books wherever they’re available. The North Dakota State Library has joined the trend by installing book vending machines across the state.

ND book vending machines are completely free to use with a ND State Library card. They’re more accessible to people with disabilities and include many fiction genres for children, teens, and adults. ND residents can check out up to three books at a time.

The popularity of book vending machines is on the rise across the country. Simulating the rewards of purchasing items with a regular vending machine allows patrons to experience the same satisfaction while encouraging a love of reading. It also makes books more accessible for neurodivergent patrons and those who don’t have the resources to visit a library in person.

Where Can You Find Book Vending Machines in ND?

Check out the North Dakota State Library’s book vending machine map to find a location near you. So far, we them in these cities: Amidon, Bismarck, Bowbells, Carson, Center, Fort Yates, Hillsboro, Fort Ransom, McClusky, and Towner.

How Do They Work?

North Dakota residents can use their ND State Library cards and scanners to check out books. Patrons can borrow three books at a time with a circulation period of two months. Local librarians across the state restock their nearest book vending machines with titles for all ages and genre interests. ND patrons should keep in mind that returning these books isn’t entirely the same as obtaining them. Some book vending machines may be stocked to capacity, then the books would need to be mailed back to the North Dakota State Library.

Can Other Libraries Get Involved?

Other interested libraries can purchase book vending machines through services like the Global Vending Group, which exclusively distributes Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine. These developers offer funding options to help schools and libraries purchase book vending machines without financially straining their resources.

Libraries can also host fundraisers to help with the cost of book vending machines. Librarians should have a few team members familiarize themselves with the technology in case patrons encounter any challenges using one. Borrowing books through a vending machine should be free with a library card to encourage community members to read.

Patrons can also get involved by donating to their local library or initiating fundraisers that support resources like book vending machines. If your public library doesn’t have a book vending machine, consider speaking with your librarian to find out how they can help!

If you’re a North Dakota resident, visit your local book vending machine for a fun and convenient way to borrow library books!

Reading should be accessible for everyone but censorship has recently increased in North Dakota. Right to Read ND is a group of residents working together to prevent the restriction of library materials to the public. Visit our website to learn more about our library advocacy.