Gizmag had another interesting article about a new vending machine.  Craig Small has created a vending machine to sell used books. Put two dollars in and the machine will randomly dispense a used book.

Now, I like the idea of a vending machine that sells used books for two dollars.  I don't like the idea of books being dispensed randomly.

My writing tastes are varied.  While, sure, yes, it would be interesting to see what emerges for my two dollar offering, I find that I like to read certain books and types of books by mood.  Some days I want something light and campy, like Jim Butcher's Dresden Files series, or light and humorous, like Lisa Lutz', Spellman files.  Other days, I'll pluck out a cozy, like something from Donna Leon. 

But darkness also calls.  I'm not too fond of horror but I'll pick up gritty police procedurals, maybe a Tana French book, or something from Lionel Shriver.  Or I'll fall back on my love of science fiction and fantasy and go find something with that flavor.  Somedays I fall back on old masters and favorites, "Catch 22", "Catcher in the Rye", "The Count of Monte Cristo".  Or I'll be in a short story mood and seize a copy of "The Best American Short Stories".  I enjoy many young adult series and will read a Maximum Overdrive book, or I'll pluck something new, like the National Book Award winner, "City of Goblins" by William Alexander.  

But unseen, random offerings from a machine?

I don't know if I'm ready for that.