1st Place: Borders
2nd Place: Crossroad Books
3rd Place: Wax Paper Etc

Nothing says knowledge like a good book, and when it comes to bookstores, the Chippewa Valley likes theirs new, bright, and full of variety. With its late-night hours for evening browsers, diverse selection of books and events, and on-site coffee shop, Borders (4030 Commonwealth Ave.) takes the top spot when it comes to good reads. Borders removes the guesswork, making it convenient for the person on a mission and fun for customers who want to spend hours wandering the aisles taking in the colorful covers. Adding to the flavor of downtown, Crossroad Books (301 S. Barstow St.) is the community’s second favorite bookstore. Housing more than 40,000 used and rare books, Crossroad Books specializes in literature about military history, American history, science and technology, theology, and Wisconsin and regional interests. And if you’re looking for a bit of a surprise along with a book, check out Wax Paper Etc (602 Water St.), the Chippewa Valley’s third choice for best bookstore. Mysterious and small, Wax Paper Etc holds huge piles of books and is a unique touch to Water Street. – JoAnna Haugen