RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - There was a buzz of excitement at White Rock Elementary on March 30 as students gathered for the unveiling of a new Book Buddies vending machine, turning a typical school day into something a little more memorable. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together the Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cordova, school staff and the City of Rancho Cordova’s Community Enhancement & Investment Fund (CEIF). Surrounded by cheering students, Assistant Principal Drea Rodriguez joined teachers and staff to cut the ribbon, officially opening the machine after a spirited countdown.

Since 2020, the program has provided more than 7,000 books to local students, helping build reading skills while also encouraging curiosity and creativity. Photo by Rick Sloan

Before the big moment, librarian Ms. Delia recognized students who participated in the school’s “Critic’s Corner” reading program. Students with perfect attendance for the month of March were also invited to be among the first to use the machine, adding an extra sense of celebration to an already exciting day. Once the ribbon was cut, the line formed quickly.

Students stepped up with tokens in hand, carefully choosing their books and watching as the machine whirred and spun before delivering their selection. For many, it was equal parts anticipation and joy, part vending machine, part book surprise.

Tokens for the newly installed book vending machine at White Rock Elementary. Photo by Rick Sloan

The new addition is part of a broader effort to make reading more engaging and accessible for Rancho Cordova youth. With support from CEIF, the city has partnered with the Kiwanis Club over several years to expand the Book Buddies program. In addition to White Rock Elementary, book vending machines can also be found at the Rancho Cordova Youth Center and Rancho Cordova Elementary School.

Since 2020, the program has provided more than 7,000 books to local students, helping build reading skills while also encouraging curiosity and creativity. With each book dispensed, the goal is simple: to make reading something students look forward to and judging by the excitement on March 30, this new vending machine is already doing just that.