Lake Cormorant Elementary School

August 21, 2025 Bob Bakken DTT - Story Link
Photo: Lake Cormorant Elementary School students hear details about the new book vending machine provided the school from Atmos Energy. (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)

LAKE CORMORANT, Miss. – Students at Lake Cormorant Elementary School now have a new way to spark their love of reading, thanks to the donation of a book vending machine from Atmos Energy — the company’s first such installation in Mississippi.

The brightly decorated machine, unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 21, allows students to earn tokens that can be exchanged for books. The school’s PTO will help keep it stocked with titles chosen specifically for the children.

Lauren Ann Cobb, Atmos Energy’s manager of public affairs, said the donation reflects the company’s commitment to supporting the communities it serves.

“Atmos strives to be the safest provider of natural gas, but we also want to give back,” Cobb said. “Through our ‘Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities’ program, one of our pillars is fueling young minds. This book vending machine is a way to encourage children to foster a love for reading early on.”

Principal Nathan Hickerson said the program will become a key part of recognizing student success, both academically and through positive behavior.

“We want this machine to be more than just a place to get books — it’s a reward system,” Hickerson said. “Students who demonstrate strong character, hard work, or academic achievement will have the chance to earn tokens and pick out a book. We hope it builds excitement for reading across the school.”

The machine was made possible through a partnership between Atmos Energy, PTO president Tony Little, and school staff. Hickerson said the reaction from families has already been enthusiastic.

“At Meet the Teacher night, we had a big ‘coming soon’ sign on the machine, and kids couldn’t stop talking about it,” Hickerson said. “Parents are just as excited, because they see the value of giving children more access to books in such a fun, engaging way.”

While similar book vending machines exist elsewhere in the state, this marks Atmos Energy’s first installation in Mississippi. Cobb said the company hopes to expand the initiative to more schools across the state in the future.

“This is just a small way we can invest in the future of our communities,” she said.