A Message from Aruba

Children’s Book Week Aruba: An Overwhelming Success!

On 3 November, we once again participated in the opening of Children’s Book Week in Aruba. Thanks to publications in local newspapers and free promotion via radio station Fresh FM, Biblionef’s stand welcomed more visitors than ever before. This year proved that reading among young people in Aruba continues to grow in popularity.

A wonderful moment that stayed with us all was a boy who preferred to use his money for a pastechi (a fried pastry snack) to bring home a book. His mother, visibly enthusiastic, assured him, ‘You will get that pastechi now anyway.’ The smile on his face spoke volumes.

Even small children stood wide-eyed looking into books and begging their parents to get a copy. Thanks to the free books, many were able to take home their own copy.

Book fair at Washington Primary School
On 8 November, we organised a book fair at Washington Primary School. All eighteen classes got a chance to choose a book to keep. After school, parents were also given the opportunity to pick up books. The enthusiasm was so great that we did not have enough books with us, so, the school planned a second session on 14 November.

For some children in grade 8, this was the very first time they had a book of their own. Their joy was indescribable. Teachers told us that the most frequently asked question was, ‘Can we start reading (in our own book) now?

Looking ahead to Next Year
Looking forward to next year, we hope to repeat these activities. 2025 will be extra special, as Biblionef will celebrate 25 years in Aruba. All of this is only possible thanks to the great books we are privileged to receive and the support of the company that helps us with transport, storage and workspace.

We are immensely grateful for the support of all involved and look forward to more successful events that continue to encourage reading among young people!

written by Carla van Eerden