IRVING, Texas — In celebration of School Library Month, Irving ISD is introducing an innovative tool designed to make storytime more engaging and accessible for all students.
Libraries across the district are now using “JuiceBot,” an interactive robot that enhances reading experiences through sound, language support, and hands-on interaction. The technology is designed to support all learners, particularly emergent bilingual students, by offering built-in translation so stories can be heard in a student’s home language while building English vocabulary.
Irving ISD is among the early adopters of the technology, currently utilizing four JuiceBots that rotate between campuses.
“JuiceBot helps eliminate barriers so all students can enjoy storytime,” said Erica White, Irving ISD Library Services Coordinator. “Hearing stories in their home language while learning new vocabulary fosters a more inclusive and meaningful experience.”
The robot incorporates expressive narration and sound effects, creating a multi-sensory learning environment that helps improve comprehension and keeps students engaged. Educators say students are naturally drawn to its interactive features, which encourage participation and curiosity during reading sessions.
Irving ISD library staff have also presented the technology at professional conferences through sessions titled “Books and Bots” and “One Language, Many Bridges: Bilingual Supports for Monolingual Librarians,” highlighting its role in supporting diverse language needs.
JuiceBot was developed by Muzo, a company with a showroom in Plano. According to the company, the robot is designed to deliver clear, room-filling audio optimized for classroom settings, reducing the need for teachers to raise their voices. It can communicate in multiple languages and supports learning through songs, phonics, and guided prompts.
Each unit costs between $5,100 and $6,100.
District officials say the addition of JuiceBot reflects Irving ISD’s commitment to creating inclusive, innovative learning environments where all students can connect with literacy in meaningful ways.
