Peoria, Illinois, USA: HSS Hosts Annual Book Fair at Illinois School to Encourage Reading

Trewyn School in Peoria Offers Discounted Books, Inspires Kids to Pick Their Own Stories

The Peoria chapter of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) organized its fifth annual book fair at Trewyn School, located in one of the city’s most underserved areas, with the goal of promoting literacy among students from kindergarten through eighth grade.

With $3,000 raised from donations by the local Hindu community and interfaith supporters, HSS volunteers were able to purchase 900 new, popular books for the three-day event. The books were sold at highly affordable prices, ranging from 25 cents to $5, ensuring that all students had access.

The turnout was impressive. Children purchased 553 books, generating $410 in revenue, which was subsequently donated back to the school. Trewyn School used these funds to acquire an additional 300 books for its classrooms and library collections.

The fair also honoured 73 kindergarten and first-grade students who participated in weekly one-on-one reading sessions with HSS volunteers. Each student received a $1 gift certificate to select a book of their choice, marking a memorable first experience of personally owning a book for many.

Volunteers explained that the initiative was designed to show children that books are treasures to be enjoyed and valued. The event was supported by a team of 11 volunteers—including a 12-year-old—who helped with selecting, pricing, transporting the books, and assisting students at checkout.

This book fair is part of HSS Peoria’s 14-year-long commitment to fostering literacy through ongoing reading programs at Trewyn School. Organisers noted that the effort embodies the Hindu philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning “the world is one family.”