More Library Vending Machines Appearing Across Polk County
You might have seen a library lending vending machine on social media, and now they’re appearing throughout Polk County. To make books more accessible, Polk County is installing Library Lending Vending Machines in popular community locations. These machines provide easy access to books at places like recreation centers and city halls, helping to reach residents who don’t often visit the library.
Using the machines is simple: residents scan their library card, enter the code for their selected book, and pick it up. A printed receipt shows the due date, and books can be returned at the drop box near the machine or at the library.
According to ABC Action News, these machines are already serving locations such as the Visit Central Florida Welcome Center in Davenport, Lake Wales and Carver Recreation Centers, Lakeland City Hall, and the Eloise Community Center. A new machine is also planned for the Bradley Community Center. Residents can check out up to 10 items at a time for a three-week period.
By placing these machines in busy areas, Polk County is making reading more convenient and encouraging greater engagement with local libraries. The success of the program has even led to hopes for similar initiatives in neighboring counties like Hillsborough.
In addition to the vending machines, the Tampa area has several great bookstores to explore. Back in the Day Book Store, located at 355 Main St, Dunedin, offers new books, best sellers, rare and collectible books, and more. They buy books by appointment and may even make house calls for larger collections.
Black English Bookstore, located at 401 E Oak Avenue, is a women-owned, independent bookstore that highlights black-authored books and welcomes readers of all ages.
At 17 6th St. N, St. Pete, you’ll find Book + Bottle, a boutique combining a wine bar and cafe with an independent bookstore. They host author talks, book clubs, and stock a selection for both kids and adults.
The Book Rescuers offers a collection of more than 40,000 used books. They pop up at events across Tampa Bay, but their warehouse in Pinellas Park is open to the public at 10440 66th St N, Unit 6.
Mojo Books & Records, located at 2554 E Fowler Ave in Tampa, features a mix of new and used books, vinyl records, and a coffee and tea bar. Their collection includes current best sellers and unique paperbacks.
Lastly, don’t miss the Oxford Exchange Bookstore at 420 W. Kennedy Blvd. Known for its award-winning fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s books, and classics, the store regularly hosts readings and signings by renowned authors.
