Although its roots go back nearly 140 years, Anderson's Bookshops is celebrating 50 years as an independent bookstore in Naperville, Ill.
The celebration begins on Thursday, November 6, and lasts through weekend, culminating in a public party on Sunday, November 9, 5-7 p.m. During the weekend, Anderson's members receive 25% off everything in the store and non-members receive 10% off. Purchases over $100 qualify for a free commemorative tote bag with a special logo design. Raffle prizes have been donated by some of the store's biggest book and toy vendors and will be drawn daily. There will also be treats and balloons each day. The grand prize drawing of 10 $50 gift cards will be held on Sunday night. (Winners need not be present to win.) Food, cake and music will accompany the Sunday night celebration.
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), which sold books and other items before launching a separate bookstore in 1964. Anderson's Books now includes Anderson's Bookshops in Naperville and Downers Grove, ABC Fairs in Aurora and Two Doors East in Naperville.
The owners are siblings Tres Anderson, Becky Anderson Wilkins and Pete Anderson. Becky Anderson commented: "It is always a pleasure to think about the community that Anderson's has been a part of for so many years. 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!"