There is a difference between being given a book and choosing one.
At the Amman International Book Fair, 57 students sponsored by Human Development Fund (HDF) spent September 29 and 30 browsing publishers’ displays and deciding what they wanted to read. Every student selected at least two books, and HDF purchased every title they chose.
The experience placed HDF students at the Amman Book Fair in charge of an important decision: which books they would take home. Twenty-four university students attended on the first day. Thirty-three school students from Amra camp attended on the second.
University students choose for study and interest
On September 29, HDF brought 24 sponsored university students from Mafraq, Jerash, Baqa’a and Ein al-Basha to the fair.
The students moved between publishers’ sections and browsed at their own pace. Some selected books connected to their fields of study, while others followed their personal interests. Each student chose at least two titles, all purchased by HDF.
The visit gave each student the opportunity to build a small collection shaped by their own goals and curiosity.
School students explore the children’s sections
On September 30, HDF returned with 33 sponsored school students from Amra camp in Mafraq.
With support from their supervisors, the students explored the children’s sections, looked through the books and selected their favorites. As with the university group, every student chose at least two books, and HDF covered the cost of every selection.
After the fair, the group visited the play area inside the mall. The students played games before ending the day with lunch together.
At least 114 books, each chosen by its reader
Across the two days, 57 students selected at least 114 books. HDF provided access and covered the cost, while the students decided what they wanted to read.
That choice was central to the experience. Instead of receiving preselected bundles, students could compare titles and select books based on their studies, interests and reading level.
Each student returned home with books they had chosen for themselves and a new opportunity to keep learning beyond the classroom.
Explore HDF’s Global Scholarship Program and learn how sustained education support helps students continue their studies.
