Visit Wisconsin’s oldest bookstore and step into a living piece of literary history. Janke Book Store in downtown Wausau first opened its doors in 1874 and has remained a family-run cornerstone of the community ever since. With roots stretching back more than 150 years, it’s the fifth oldest bookstore in the entire country.
Now operated by third-generation siblings Jim and Jane Janke, the shop is packed with charm and character. You’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection of books alongside quirky gifts, stationery, and what locals say is the best greeting card collection in Central Wisconsin. Local authors are often featured in the store’s window displays and book signings, giving the space a homegrown heart that’s impossible to replicate. Whether you’re hunting for your next favorite read or just soaking in the old-world atmosphere, Janke Book Store is a must-visit for book lovers with a taste for timeless treasures.
