How, when and why did you start your business?

The book store opened in the 1870s. In 1919, after World War I, my grandfather Carl Janke and partner Reno Kurth bought the business; it operated as “Janke-Kurth” until 1948. We’re starting our 104th year of business within the family. We're the oldest bookstore in the Midwest, and the sixth oldest continuously operating bookstore in the country.

What makes your business unique?

I think our willingness to adapt with the times, being fluid and changing to provide what the consumers want. We're here and we're hands on every day and so we know our customers. I think that makes a big difference, rather than just being a chain.

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

Our local book selection is very popular, including local history books on Wausau and Wisconsin. We bring in local authors for readings and to interact with customers. We have a really nice and fun product mix with our books and our gifts - it's a smorgasbord of things.

What motivates you?

Making customer connections and fun customer interactions. It’s fun talking with people and helping them find what they need.

How would you measure or define success?

Our 104 year legacy is definitely one measure. My grandfather kept the business going through the Great Depression and many other difficult economic times. I would say social media has saved our business in recent years; it's very important component for success today.

How do you generate new ideas?

We try something and if it works, it works. If it doesn't, then we eliminate it. Go on to the next step for the spaghetti at the wall method. See what sticks and what falls down.

What excites you most about the future of the downtown?

Additional downtown housing. We see a big impact from people that live at the river front; they walk down here and pick up a book or a puzzle. I think we’ll see a lot more of that.