New Initiative for Youth: How Ukrainians Spend on Books
In just six months since the launch of the "eBook" initiative, 18-year-old Ukrainians have spent over 91 million UAH on books.
This was reported by the Ukrainian Book Institute (UBI).
The total amount allocated for the program is 91,533,898.18 UAH. The majority of the youth chose online bookstores, spending 56,912,213.33 UAH (62.18%). Meanwhile, 277 physical bookstores across Ukraine received 34,613,193.85 UAH (37.82% of total spending).
According to the UBI, since March 2025, 3,000 applications are submitted weekly. Mostly, women utilize the book fund.
"Around 20.12% of program participants received funds but did not use them to purchase books. The reasons for this vary, including lack of awareness about the time limits (funds must be spent within 3 months of receipt). Unused funds are reallocated to the next 18-year-old applicants registered in the program," UBI reported.
About the "eBook" initiative
The "eBook" initiative is a government support program that allows Ukrainians who turn 18 to receive 908.4 UAH for book purchases over the course of a year. It was launched in mid-December 2024, with disbursements starting from January 3, 2025.
Funds can only be used to purchase paper, electronic, and audiobooks in Ukrainian from participating bookstores and publishers.
Currently, books can be purchased through more than 200 physical bookstores and 34 online stores. A complete list of bookstores is available via a link.
