New Horizons of Reading: How Youth is Engaging with the Book Support Program
Six months into the "eBook" program, Ukrainian youth have spent over 91 million UAH on book purchases.
This information comes from the Ukrainian Book Institute (UBI).
The total amount spent in the program reached 91,533,898.18 UAH. Most young people preferred online bookstores, accounting for 56,912,213.33 UAH (62.18%). Meanwhile, 277 brick-and-mortar bookstores across Ukraine received 34,613,193.85 UAH (37.82% of total spending).
According to UBI, around 3,000 applications come in weekly since March 2025. Mostly, women utilize the book assistance.
"About 20.12% of program participants received funds on their cards but did not use them to purchase books. The reasons for this can vary, including lack of knowledge about time restrictions (the funds must be spent within 3 months of being credited). Unused funds are redirected to the program for the next 18-year-olds who register," UBI reported.
About the "eBook" Program
The "eBook" program is a state support initiative allowing Ukrainians who have turned 18 to receive 908.4 UAH over the course of a year for book purchases. It launched in mid-December 2024, with payments commencing on January 3, 2025.
Funds can only be used within three months for the purchase of printed, electronic, and audiobooks in Ukrainian from participating bookstores and publishers.
Currently, books can be purchased through over 200 physical bookstores and 34 online shops. A complete list of bookstores is available via a link.
