In the half-year since the launch of the 'eBook' program, 18-year-old Ukrainians have spent more than 91 million UAH on book purchases.

This was reported by the Ukrainian Book Institute (UBI).

In total, the program has facilitated expenditures of 91,533,898.18 UAH. The youth predominantly chose online bookstores, leading to a spending total of 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 UBI, since March 2025, approximately 3,000 applications have been submitted weekly. Women predominantly utilize the book funding.

'About 20.12% of program participants received funds but did not use them to purchase books. The reasons for this range from a lack of awareness regarding time limits (the funds must be spent within 3 months of allocation). Unused funds are then redirected to the next 18-year-old applicants who register for the program,' UBI noted.

About the 'eBook' Program

The 'eBook' program is a state-supported initiative allowing Ukrainians who turn 18 to receive 908.4 UAH for book purchases over the course of a year. It started in mid-December 2024, with payments beginning on January 3, 2025.

Funds can only be spent within three months on physical, electronic, and audiobooks in Ukrainian from participating bookstores and publishers.

Currently, books can be purchased at over 200 physical bookstores and 34 online shops. A complete list of bookstores is available via the link.