60th Annual AAUW Used Book Sale: Supporting Women's Scholarships in South Dakota (2025)

Imagine a world where every woman has the opportunity to pursue her dreams through education. That's the driving force behind a remarkable event in Rapid City, South Dakota, where the love of reading directly translates into scholarships for ambitious women. But here's where it gets controversial... Should access to education be funded through such means, or is it the responsibility of the state to provide these opportunities? Let's delve into the details.

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is hosting its 60th annual used book sale in Rapid City, a testament to the community's unwavering support for women's education. This isn't just any book sale; it's a tradition that directly impacts the lives of aspiring female students in the region. Bookworms and bargain hunters, mark your calendars! You can find the AAUW at the Central States Fairgrounds on Friday from 5 to 7 pm, kicking off a weekend dedicated to literacy and empowerment.

Prepare to be amazed by a vast selection of pre-loved books spanning virtually every genre imaginable. Whether you're searching for captivating children's stories, enlightening non-fiction works, or thrilling fiction novels, you're bound to discover your next literary adventure. And the best part? All books are priced affordably, ensuring that everyone can participate in this worthy cause.

And this is the part most people miss... Every single penny raised during the book sale goes directly towards funding scholarships for women pursuing associate’s, bachelor’s, and advanced degrees. This isn't just about selling books; it's about investing in the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. The initiative perfectly aligns with the AAUW's core mission: to advance education and equity for women and girls. It's a powerful example of how a community can come together to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who need them most.

"Last year, we were able to fund 10 scholarships for young women from the Black Hills area, and we have two new scholarships this year," proudly announced Lisa Ficek, a Membership Chair of AAUW. "One of them is for an art student. There’s also a $2,000 STEM scholarship for an SDSU student of nursing.” These scholarships provide vital financial assistance, enabling women to pursue their passions and contribute to their communities. For example, the STEM scholarship could empower a future nurse to provide critical care in a rural community, while the art scholarship might support a talented artist in creating inspiring works that enrich our lives.