Janke Book Store

Janke Book Store has been a Wausau institution since 1952, passing through multiple generations of the Janke family who have maintained its reputation for personal service and thoughtful selection. In an era when most small-city bookstores have disappeared, Janke's survival and continued vitality is a testament to the deep relationship between the store and its community. The staff knows their customers' tastes intimately, often setting aside new arrivals for readers they know will love them. The Wisconsin history and outdoors sections reflect the interests of a region surrounded by forests, rivers, and lakes, while the children's section has introduced generations of young Wausau readers to the joy of books. The store's longevity means it carries an institutional memory of the community's reading life that no algorithm could replicate, making every visit feel like a conversation with a knowledgeable old friend.