Why did you start your business?

With the support of my family, friends and community we opened our doors on Nov. 30th, 2024. I have always loved reading and writing since I was a child. I love visiting book stores when we travel and had been throwing the idea around of opening my own, as I thought a cute used book store was something that the Wausau area didn’t have.

What makes your business unique?

We specialize in “late model used” books, as one customer put it! At our shop you will find a selection of excellent quality pre-loved books, many of which are recent releases or still on your to-be-read list. We also carry a fun selection of book-ish merchandise like shirts, totes, bookmarks and stickers that allow us to also support other small businesses. In addition, we carry a variety of coffee brands, all of which are roasted in the US by small businesses whose packaging was designed and printed right here in Wausau. We are also the only place in Wausau that buys our used book inventory, which gives our customers the opportunity to re-home some of their books in exchange for cash or store credit.

How do you generate new ideas?

I take a lot of feedback from my customers, and since I am also part of my own target market I think a lot about what I would love to see in a local used book store.

What product/service is your most popular, or what you are known for?

Our Blind Date With A Book is very popular. We make them here at the shop. We take books that sound interesting, wrap them up, give you a few clues to the story-line along with a sticker and bookmark. It’s a fun way to try a new genre, gift a book, or surprise yourself!

Why did you locate your business in the Wausau River District?

When I finally decided to give this idea a go, I knew that the atmosphere I wanted to create was really important to the success of the overall vision. When Tyler Tate, owner of Grand-Views Real Estate Management, showed me this space I loved the old wood floors, higher ceilings, and the brick exterior. It had the charm and space I needed. It was also exciting to be located in an area of town that has a lot of fun new things happening and be neighbors to some other great local businesses!

How do you measure/define success?

Happiness! Whether it is in myself, my family or my customers. As long as the shop is filling a need and making people happy I consider it a success.

What motivates you as a business owner?

I absolutely love meeting new customers, seeing the smile on their faces when we talk about books or finding that one good deal they had been looking for. The thrill of the hunt for books and the happiness and excitement of my customers motivates me every day. My family and friends are also the greatest cheerleaders, and the overwhelming support of the community has been sort of mind-blowing!

Talk about your staff.

We are a family-run business. I handle the day-to-day operations and myy daughter helps sometimes after school or on weekends. It’s a great way for her to learn valuable skills with money, inventory and customer service. My son and husband help with inventory and loads of other needs around the shop.

What excites you most about the future of downtown Wausau?

I am really excited about all the new businesses that are opening in the area, as well as some great new projects we have planned for summer!