Martha Merrell’s Bookstore is owned and operated by Norm and Eve Bruce. They purchased the store in 1996 and have improved and expanded the store ever since.

Since 1963 Martha Merrell’s has been a part of the Waukesha community. Norm and Eve have turned the store into a valuable resource for educators, students and readers of all ages and interests. They have also played a crucial role in Waukesha’s downtown business development.

Both have strong educational backgrounds. Norm served as principal in schools in Pewaukee and West Bend for twelve years and Eve is a Media Specialist/Librarian for a grade school in Sussex. Together they are in a unique position to serve the needs of all segments of the Waukesha reading public, our friends and neighbors.

But why is the store called Martha Merrell's Bookstore?

Martha Merrell was a woman ahead of her time. She graduated from Radcliffe College in 1922, was head librarian at the Racine Public Library, established the first bookstore in Racine (the original Martha Merrell’s) in 1947. Martha had a wandering spirit and traveled the world. William Kidd of Western Publishing in Racine bought the bookstore from Martha in 1954. Other locations were added, including Milwaukee, Menomonee Falls and Waukesha.

Although the other locations are no longer operating, readers in both Waukesha and Racine have Martha Merrell’s Books ready and willing to serve them.

So, now you know!