After 18 years in downtown Waupaca, Book World will be shutting its doors on July 18.
“Waupaca shoppers are losing their downtown,” according to Leigh Ogiba, Book world’s regional manager. “Every time they click that mouse for online shopping or go to Appleton, it’s another hit to our downtown.”
Ogiba noted that once Book World closes, there will be at least three empty storefronts on North Main Street.
“I’m seeing a drop in the shopability of downtown Waupaca,” Ogiba said.
Book World has 48 stores in the Midwest, with the closest shops located in Stevens Point and Appleton.
The chain plans to open a store in West Bend in August. Waupaca is the only store Book World is closing this summer, according to Ogiba.
Maria Miskinis has been working at Book World in Waupaca for 13 years. She has noticed a drop in sales.
“People don’t want to support the local businesses,” Miskinis said. “They’ll come in and ask for donations, but I can’t remember the last time when I saw them in the store.”
In order to clear inventory, Book World is offering 20 percent discounts on most of its merchandise. Magazines are 50 percent off.