OVERNEWTON Anglican College student Hannah Van Beek has been overwhelmed by the generosity of her peers.

When the Year 12 student called on the school community to donate books to refugee students from St Johns Catholic School in Fitzroy, she never expected such an incredible response.

“I originally thought that our students might donate one or two books, if any, but I was grossly mistaken,” Hannah said.

The aspiring primary school teacher said she had almost 2000 books, all in great condition, to give to students, many of whom can’t afford to buy their own books.

“One student donated over 100 books, it was amazing.”

“It’s so reassuring and comforting to know that people are prepared to give so much. I’m really quite proud of how everyone has responded to this.”

The Glenroy resident said her idea stemmed from a love of reading.

“I always loved reading books as a child and couldn’t imagine not having any. It will help open their minds and improve literacy which is so important.”

Students at both the Taylors Lakes and Keilor campus were encouraged to donate picture books and novels, with the class that donates the most books receiving a prize.