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HSS holds annual book fair at Illinois school to promote reading
Event at Trewyn School, Peoria offers discounted books, encourages children to experience the joy of choosing their own titles.
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Staff Reporter - Wed, 08, Oct 2025
- 22:54 EDT
- 46
Students bought 553 books, generating $410 in sales, / Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)
The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) Peoria chapter hosted its fifth annual book fair at Trewyn School, one of Peoria’s most underserved neighborhoods, with the aim of encouraging reading among children from kindergarten to eighth grade.
Supported by $3,000 raised through contributions from the local Hindu community and interfaith partners, HSS volunteers purchased 900 new, popular titles for the three-day event. Books were sold at heavily discounted prices ranging from 25 cents to $5, making them accessible to all students.
The response was strong. Students bought 553 books, generating $410 in sales, which was later donated to the school. Trewyn School used the funds to purchase an additional 300 books for its classrooms and library.
The fair also celebrated 73 kindergarten and first-grade students who receive weekly one-on-one reading sessions from HSS volunteers. / HSSThe fair also celebrated 73 kindergarten and first-grade students who receive weekly one-on-one reading sessions from HSS volunteers. Each of these students was given a $1 gift certificate to buy a book of their choice—a symbolic moment for many who were making their first personal book purchase.
Volunteers said the initiative aimed to teach children that books are valuable possessions to be enjoyed and cherished. The event was supported by 11 volunteers, including a 12-year-old participant, who helped select, price, and transport the books, and assist students at checkout.
The book fair is part of HSS Peoria’s 14-year effort to promote literacy through regular reading programs at the school. Organizers said the initiative reflects the Hindu principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that “the world is one family.”
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