This week, Luxembourg's bookshops are bustling as students flock to collect their textbooks and school materials in the final countdown to the new school year.
With the new school year set to begin in one week, Luxembourg's bookshops are experiencing their annual period of peak activity. The final rush is not only for schools making last-minute preparations but also for students securing their required materials.
A key change since 2018 is that the Ministry of Education reimburses the cost of all school textbooks. For the upcoming year, the Ministry has allocated a budget of €11.1 million for secondary school textbooks, saving each secondary school student an average of €241.
Although the textbooks are free, the process requires students to first order and then collect them from bookshops. This system makes the back-to-school season a particularly demanding time for retailers, who must undertake special preparations to manage the influx.
Bookseller Paul Ernster confirmed in an interview with RTL that this period is always challenging, despite the support of additional seasonal staff.
He noted that a functional routine has been established over the eight years of collaboration with the Ministry. The Ministry shares school book lists in advance, allowing bookshops to stock up.
"In principle, we can give the students the books for free and we then invoice the Ministry, a bit like a third-party payment system. And I must say this collaboration works very well", Ernster explained. However, he acknowledged that logistical challenges, such as delayed book deliveries or last-minute orders from students, remain a constant.
Beyond textbooks, the cost of new school supplies can be significant. To help families with these expenses, two additional child benefit bonuses – of €115 and €235 – are paid out automatically.
As the summer holidays conclude, the focus for students shifts back to the classroom. When asked about their feelings on returning to school, most students interviewed by RTL in the bookshop expressed optimism, primarily citing excitement about reuniting with their friends.
