Bookworm Vending Machine Debuts at the Good Shepherd YMCA

YMCA New Chapter for Rockford Readers

Hope Petticrew watched a young boy step up to the brand new Bookworm Vending Machine at the Good Shepherd YMCA — token in hand, eyes wide. When the machine lit up and began speaking, guiding him through the choices, he froze in awe. Then came the careful scan of every colorful cover before he pressed the button and gasped as his book dropped into the tray.

"That moment — when a child realizes this book is mine — that's why we do this," Hope shared.

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the Bookworm Vending Machine at the Good Shepherd YMCA in Rockford, Illinois, hosted by the Junior League of Rockford.

Bringing Literacy to Life

The Junior League of Rockford celebrated the installation of its third Bookworm Vending Machine in the YMCA's bustling cafeteria space, where after school programming fills the room with energy and possibility.

During the event, JLR President Heather Riley highlighted the League's 95 year history of community impact, while Hope spoke about how the Literacy Leaders Project is creating "moments of choice, joy, and discovery for children."

The Good Shepherd YMCA has embraced the machine as a new tool to weave literacy into daily youth programming.

Community Partners Making It Possible

Two key partners helped bring this project to life:

  • Becca Homb, Executive Director of the YMCA Good Shepherd branch, shared how the machine supports youth development.
  • Julie Bosma, President & CEO of United Way of Rock River Valley, emphasized the importance of early literacy access across the region.

Thanks to United Way's support, the Junior League can reach more children earlier — giving them the strong start they deserve.

A Celebration of Reading

After the ribbon cutting, children lined up eagerly to be the first to try the machine. Each book they selected became a moment of pride, excitement, and ownership — the kind of spark that builds lifelong readers.  
And with this new machine, Rockford's next chapter in literacy is just beginning.

Children selecting free books from the Junior League of Rockford Bookworm Vending Machine at the Good Shepherd YMCA, part of the United Way-supported Literacy Leaders Project.

About the Junior League of Rockford  
The Junior League of Rockford is a dynamic organization of women leaders committed to creating lasting community impact. For 95 years, JLR has launched transformative projects — from the Discovery Center to Maya's House — and continues that legacy today through initiatives like the Literacy Leaders Project.  
Women in the Rockford area who are passionate about service, leadership, and community change are invited to learn more about joining us. Explore membership, upcoming events, and ways to get involved at rockford.jl.org or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jlrockford.