Self-Service

Houston airport intros book vending machine

Image: Adobe Stock.

November 28, 2023

Visitors at Houston's Hobby Airport can check out and return books at a newly installed vending machine inside the main entrance near the TSA screening area, operated by the Houston Public Library, according to a Houston Public Media report.

The BOOKLink, as it's known, was installed last week, offering more than 100 titles in a variety of genres, along with more than 500 e-books and audiobooks. The glassfront machine contains five rows of 20 to 25 books.

Users scan their library card or enter their card number and provide a PIN number to open the door and remove the books.

The inventory can be electronically monitored and will be restocked as needed by library staff.

The airport marks the fifth BOOKLink since the program began in 2019.