When I walked into Novel Bay Books on 3rd Avenue in Sturgeon Bay, Liz Welter, one of the owners asked me what I was currently reading. When I answered that I was reading Barbara Kingsolver’s first novel she smiled broadly and told me how much she loved the Bean Trees and added that it was so different from her other novels like The Poisonwood Bible or Laguna.
Liz and partner John Maggitti really know, and really love, books. It’s hard to believe that this is their first commercial venture…for anything.
Not too long ago Liz was working as a reporter for the Door County Advocate and John was making weekend commutes from his job in Marshfield, Wisconsin. After a year of this tedious commute John was finally able to leave his job in Marshfield and join Liz full time in Sturgeon Bay. They wanted something that they could do…together. After long analysis they realized that they both loved reading and a storefront became available on 3rd Avenue. So they took the plunge and opened Novel Bay Booksellers. John, being very handy, crafted many of the bookshelves himself and even put in a metal ceiling back in the reading room. Liz is constantly updating book selections, especially the children and young adult choices.
Together they make a wonderful team. They are eager to help anyone who enters the store who may want a personal suggestion or a gift for a friend. And when they’re not stocking shelves or working with a customer you’ll find them doing what they love so much. Reading.
