Rapid City, S.D. – The local chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) launched its annual book sale on October 16 at the fine arts building on the Central States Fairgrounds. Over three days, the event featured thousands of gently used books—fiction, nonfiction, children’s titles, and special‑interest works—offered at bargain prices.
Community donors fill tables with reading material
Residents across the region donated books, creating a vibrant marketplace for readers of all ages. Tables were lined with a wide variety of titles, allowing shoppers to discover new stories, expand their knowledge, or find the perfect bedtime book for a child.
AAUW members highlight the joy of reading for families
AAUW membership chair Lisa Ficek explained that the best part of the sale is watching children’s faces light up when they see the selection. “People who come in with their kids, we have a huge selection of children’s books, and they’ll come in with their kids, and the kid’s faces light up. I was the kid that spent her summers in the library, and so for me to see people that really love books as much as I do is just such a treat,” Ficek said.
Proceeds support scholarships for women
Every dollar raised from book sales is earmarked for AAUW scholarships. The funds will assist women pursuing two‑year, four‑year, and graduate degrees, directly advancing AAUW’s mission to promote education and equity for women and girls. By turning donated books into scholarship dollars, the event underscores the power of community generosity to lift the next generation of female scholars.
How to get involved
Although the sale concluded on October 18, AAUW encourages anyone who missed the event to consider future book drives, volunteer opportunities, or direct donations to the scholarship fund. Information about upcoming events and ways to support AAUW’s educational initiatives can be found on the organization’s website or by contacting the Rapid City chapter directly.
Looking ahead
The AAUW Rapid City chapter plans to make the book sale an annual tradition, reinforcing the link between literacy, community involvement, and higher‑education opportunities for women. As the organization continues to grow its network of donors and volunteers, the impact of each year’s sale is expected to expand, providing more scholarships and fostering a stronger culture of reading throughout the region.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
