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Friday, March 29, 2024

Anderson’s Bookshop in Naperville celebrates 50 years in same location

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Anderson’s Bookshops in downtown Naperville dates back nearly 140 years, but last week the independent book seller celebrated its first 50 years in its current location at 123 W. Jefferson Ave.

Anderson’s is a sixth-generation family bookstore that traces its roots back to the founding of W.W. Wickel Pharmacy (now Oswald’s Pharmacy located in Naperville Plaza), which sold books and other items before launching a separate bookstore in 1964. And five decades later, the nationally-known bookstore continually attracts internationally-known writers such as J.K. Rowling, Julie Andrews and Caroline Kennedy, to name just a few.

andersons-sign

Above / During the illumination of the bright white lights Friday night, Nov. 7, Anderson’s Bookshops’ 50th anniversary banner was shining in the spotlight.

The celebration included a party open to the public on Sunday evening.

In addition to a video slide show depicting memories of the first 50 years in photos, an hors d’oeuvre buffet, birthday cake and music accompanied the Sunday night festivities as well as three generations of Andersons. Jean and Bob Anderson, parents of Tres, Becky and Peter; and Katie, daughter of Tres, had a hand in cutting the cake, emblazoned with the commemorative graphic also included on the banner in front of the store.

andersons-3-generations

Above / Katie Anderson, left, Tres Anderson, Bob Anderson, Peter Anderson, Becky Anderson and Jean Anderson, front, prepared to cut the birthday cake.

Anderson’s Books, which includes Anderson’s Bookshops in Naperville and Downers Grove, ABC Fairs in Aurora, and Two Doors East, 111 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville, has been honored with several awards in its history.  In 2011 it was named as Publishers Weekly Bookstore of the Year, the highest honor recognizing independent booksellers.  Anderson’s also won the Naperville Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Award and Retail Business of the Year in 2010.

As Naperville natives, co-owners and siblings, Tres Anderson, Becky Anderson Wilkins and Pete Anderson mixed and mingled with their guests, crediting many longtime friends and avid readers with their success.  With much appreciation, Tres gave all in attendance a champagne toast.

The owners also noted that the store and the industry have faced some tough challenges in recent years, especially as independent merchants. Yet, their love for books and dedication to go forward also was expressed.

“It is always a pleasure to think about the community that Anderson’s has been a part of for so many years,” said Becky Anderson. “We are truly privileged and honored to have worked with so many brilliant authors and partners in the book industry. We’re looking forward to all the great things the future may bring!”

andersons-at-50

Above / Anderson’s is renown throughout Chicagoland for its knowledgeable sales team, always eager to help customers find the perfect book. In fact, early Saturday morning on WGN radio, a teacher from Joliet gave Anderson’s staff a terrific review!

Anderson’s Bookshops specialize in a knowledgeable sales team, book sales, author events and book signings as well as building a sense of community, learning and fun right in the heart of Naperville.

To keep updated on current literary events and other special activities hosted by Anderson’s, visit www.andersonsbookshop.com.

Editor’s Note: In 2008, Becky Anderson organized the founding of IndieBound Naperville, a grassroots group of local independent businesses.

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PN Editor
PN Editor
An editor is someone who prepares content for publishing. It entered English, the American Language, via French. Its modern sense for newspapers has been around since about 1800.

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