Atmos Energy helps make learning fun
JANS – On Nov. 20th, the Mississippi Children’s Museum officially unveiled its brand new Inchy’s Bookworm Book Vending Machine. The grand opening and ribbon cutting celebrated a new way to spark a love of reading for kids across the community. The Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine was made possible through the generous support of Atmos Energy.
This unique machine is designed to ignite a passion for reading in children by turning literacy into a fun and rewarding experience. Unlike traditional vending machines that offer snacks or toys, Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine provides something far more meaningful: books. This machine dispenses brand new books that children can earn through positive behavior and program participation. Museum guests can earn Inchy’s Coins by attending weekly literacy-based programs: ABC Come Play with Me, Rocky’s Book Club, and Read with Me. Each time guests attend one of these programs, they will receive a sticker on their Book Club Card, putting them one step closer to earning an Inchy’s Coin! These special tokens can be used to select a book from the machine, acting as a reward for their dedication and program attendance.
“At the Mississippi Children’s Museum, we believe every child’s imagination can take flight through the power of a good book,” said Monique Ealey, Director of Education and Experiences at the Mississippi Children’s Museum. “Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine transforms the simple act of choosing a book into a magical moment that builds excitement, curiosity, and a lifelong love of reading. Each book a child takes home not only expands their personal library, but also strengthens the habit of reading together as a family – one of the most meaningful ways to learn, bond, and dream. Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine beautifully complements our literacy-based programs by connecting learning with joyful rewards. When children participate in museum reading activities and earn the opportunity to select their own book, it reinforces positive reading habits and celebrates their commitment to learning in a fun, tangible way.”
The vending machine will be a permanent fixture at MCM, offering children the chance to earn and choose their own books throughout the year. This experience aligns with the museum’s core literacy initiative, which is central to its goal of empowering children through reading and learning.
“The Mississippi Children’s Museum has been an excellent partner for Atmos Energy for over 15 years,” said Matt Davidson, President of the Mississippi Division of Atmos Energy. “We are committed to investing in the communities we serve, and a significant area of focus is third-grade literacy. The addition of the book vending machine aligns perfectly with our partnership with the museum and serves as a wonderful way to encourage a love for reading.”
Visitors to the museum are invited to explore the new vending machine, take part in enriching literacy programs, and help spread the joy of reading – one book at a time.
In conjunction with this contribution to the museum, Atmos Energy has generously donated to the LIFT capital campaign, underscoring its commitment to expanding literacy and learning opportunities for Mississippi’s children. Atmos Energy’s gift is one of the first in this inspirational project that will further support the construction of a 20,000-square foot addition designed to empower students and educators through innovative resources and programs. Through this investment, Atmos Energy is helping the Mississippi Children’s Museum advance its mission to strengthen literacy, inspire lifelong learning, and cultivate a strong, productive workforce for Mississippi’s future.
