Donate
Search wpr.org

Independent Bookstores

A red car with luggage drives uphill on the left; on the right are books and binders. Text in the center reads Independent Book Stores on a blue background.
A hiking trail sign is mounted on a wooden post in a green forest. Text reads: Celebrate 125 years with the Wisconsin State Park System. dnr.wi.gov/tiny/3381.

Niche Book Bar

Milwaukee

Located in Milwaukee’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood, Niche Book Bar is committed to celebrating books by Black authors and with Black characters from every genre. Customers can enjoy their next read along with a variety of cafe and wine selections.

Visit Website
Window of Niche Book Bar with its logo, a stack of books, a tall patterned vase, and a colorful poster displayed, reflecting buildings across the street.
Photo courtesy of Niche Book Bar

Janke Book Store

Wausau

Established in 1919, Janke Book Store prides itself on being Wisconsin’s oldest bookstore. The Wausau shop offers everything from local history books to newly released titles, along with an assortment of stationary and gifts.

Visit Website
Two cars are parked in front of Janke Book Store on a sunny day, with a planter of vibrant pink and purple flowers in the foreground.
Photo courtesy of Janke Book Store

Novel Bay Booksellers

Sturgeon Bay

Pick up the perfect summer read during your Door County vacation. Novel Bay Booksellers is a woman-owned store located in the heart of Sturgeon Bay.

Visit Website
Independent bookstore interior with shelves of books, a man standing behind the counter, and large windows revealing a street scene outside.
Photo courtesy of Novel Bay Booksellers

Dragon Tale Books

Menomonie

Owned and operated by a former librarian, part of Dragon Tale Books’ mission is to serve lifelong readers. The store hosts regular author events and a monthly Partners in Crime book club.

Visit Website
A well-lit independent bookstore with wooden floors, rows of bookshelves filled with books, and a green air duct running along the ceiling.
Photo courtesy of Dragon Tale Books

Republic of Letters Books

Mineral Point

Republic of Letters offers new and used books in a historic building in Mineral Point. Store owners Keith Burrows and Leslie Damaso are two of the authors of “The Wisconsin Whey,” a recently released book on cheesemakers from the Driftless Area.

Visit Website
Two people stand together in a green-walled bookstore, smiling at the camera. Bookshelves, a tan couch, and a modern light fixture are visible.
Photo courtesy of Republic of Letters

Explore by Region