Downtown Gresham’s Wisenheimer Books is a page-turner

By Christopher Keizur,

19 days ago

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A new independent bookstore has opened on a prominent corner in Downtown Gresham, creating a haven for readers who love to get lost in books.

Wisenheimer Books, 10 N.W. Third St., is a true passion project for owner Anna Palmquist.

“I’ve always wanted to own a bookstore and be an artist ever since I was a little kid,” she said. “At 55 I decided to start making art; at 60 this place came available.”

“I knew I would regret it if I didn’t do this,” Palmquist added.

The shop opened Friday, Oct. 9. That was slightly earlier than planned, but so many people were excitedly coming to the door that Palmquist decided to jump in with both feet.

“The store is a work in progress. I am always adding new things, and rotating makers and artists,” Palmquist said. “Don’t feel like you have to buy, just come say, ‘Hi’ whenever you like.”

The response has been slightly overwhelming, in the best way. So many books were sold in the first couple of days that Palmquist had to raid her own personal collection just to keep things stocked.

“People have been unbelievably nice and positive,” Palmquist said. “They walk in and are so excited. People keep telling me they ‘love the vibe.’ They love the offerings, the community, the colors.”

Wisenheimer Books has all sorts of genres of books. They carry classics and “banned books,” literary and general fiction, ghost stories and mysteries, poetry and philosophy, non-fiction and cookbooks, art-related books, and sci-fi, horror, and fantasy.

“I pick things up that I think people will be interested in,” Palmquist said.

Of the books, about 90% are used. On her off days, Palmquist scours the region for new additions. She has a real eye for finding treasures, cultivated by a lifelong passion for reading, two years running on an online shop, and a book nook at the Troutdale Art Center.

“People are loving the book choices. I’m flattered but tired because I am searching everywhere for more books,” Palmquist said with a laugh. “For me, it’s quality over quantity.”

While the books are in the spotlight, Wisenheimer Books offers many other eclectic things to discover. Palmquist has curated a collection of items from friends, family, and fellow artists in East Multnomah County.

Candles, soaps, and lotions are made by a woman who raises Nigerian dwarf goats in East County. Mugs that are engraved at home by one of her neighbors. Handcrafted cards, including some made by her granddaughter. Artwork on the walls by five different folks (there are more walls she is excited to fill). There are records, including some produced by the guys at Gresham Midschool. Around the shop are Dimepiece Rub from Gresham’s Sanguiche sandwich shop. The t-shirts are screen-printed a few blocks away in Downtown. There are puzzles and knickknacks.

One of the most popular items flying off the shelves is “Dragon Journals,” which have a satisfying heft and an outer cover that feels like metal scales.

“I wanted to be part of the community and help other local makers,” Palmquist said. “We need businesses and people to support each other.”