Independent Bookstore Feature: LaDeDa Books

Independent booksellers are the bloodline of stories, bringing them from warehouses to shelves right in your neighborhood. More than that, they become community centers where like-minded folks gather at bookish events.

Fresh Water Press caught up with Bev Denor, owner of LaDeDa Books, to learn more about her cute bookstore!

FWP: Why did you decide to open a bookstore? How long have you been in business?

Bev: For several years, I lived around the corner from the Carnegie library in Manitowoc. I loved the building with the marble stairs leading up to the children’s are. I quickly became best friends with Perdita Dramm, the librarian, and she always helped me find the perfect books for me. I went on to teach English/theatre history for many years, always pushing books and reading. Finally, I simply burned out and opened a bookstore—totally unresearched and unprepared. Twenty-five+ years later, I’m still at it.

FWP: Do you specialize in anything special or unique?

Bev: We have an eclectic collection, and we can order most anything that is in print.

FWP: What are the top three things you look at when deciding what books to stock, which to face display?

Bev: First, I listen to our customers. Over the years they have introduced me to many books I had not heard of. We are a hometown store and want to do our best to reflect who our customers are and what they are looking for. Second, since our four employees have varied interests and reading preferences, I look to them for admire. Third, I watch what books are sell in the Midwest, followed by national sales numbers.

Are you a bookstore owner? Fresh Water Press would love to feature your story. Do you have a favorite bookstore you’d like to learn more about? Let us know at contact@freshwaterpressllc.com and we’ll reach out to request an interview.