The SFSU Bookstore opened for business 50 years ago -- the same year SF State moved to its location at 19th and Holloway avenues.

To celebrate its golden anniversary, the Bookstore has been holding a series of random drawings for faculty, staff and students. Prizes include a January trip for two to Hawaii, an iPod, Champion sports wear, $50 Bookstore gift cards, and more. For eligibility requirements and to enter the drawing, visit the Bookstore between now and Friday, Nov. 12.

Originally located in the Franciscan building on campus, the Bookstore moved to its current location in the Cesar Chavez Student Center when the building was completed in 1975. Much has changed since then.

"The higher education retailing industry faces interesting challenges. For example, more textbooks are becoming available only in electronic format and are distributed online rather than purchased in a bricks and mortar store," said Rob Strong, manager of the Bookstore. "The Bookstore intends to remain a strong partner in the University's educational process by continuing to pursue new methods of delivering course materials and obtaining school supplies, apparel, computers, software and convenience items at the best prices possible."

In 2000, the Bookstore added an online store. And in summer 2003, the online version of the University class schedule was linked up with the Bookstore's inventory, allowing students to review and order texts for the classes in which they have enrolled. It has also undergone a major remodel of the sales areas, adding a new entrance, improved accessibility and new equipment.

During the 2003-04 academic year, the Bookstore sold more than 260,000 textbooks representing 5,000 titles. It employs more than 200 students each year.

Because it operates as a nonprofit corporation and auxiliary of the University, any net surplus the Bookstore generates is returned to benefit SFSU. Over the years, the Bookstore has applied its surpluses to the improvement and replacement of fixtures, computer systems, equipment, student rebates, library acquisitions, computer lab expenses and University-wide special events, such as Commencement.

-- William Morris