About the Shop
WordHaven BookHouse is a queer-owned Independent BookShop and Writing Center located in the heart of downtown Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
We are a safe place for words where people can connect, grow, create, and thrive
We sell books (new and used), writing materials (journals, pens, markers, and color pencils), cards, local art, stickers, stuffed animals, candles, tote bags, candy, pop, and WordHaven Merchandise;
We also special order books and products for local customers
We host events that celebrate identities, promote healing, and create connections
We have an online BookShop, monthly subscriptions (Book of the Month Clubs), a partnership with Libro.FM, and multiple satellite shops across the city
We provide writing opportunities that evoke creativity
We support folks who want to understand, learn, and/or heal from their experiences
BookShop Location
923 N 8th St, Sheboygan, WI, 53081
Writers Studio
921 N 8th St, Sheboygan, WI, 53081
Hours
Wednesdays-Fridays: 11-5 PM
Saturdays & Sundays: 9-3 PM
Contact
Email: wordhaven@kellydholstine.com
Phone: (920) 395-2375
My Why
As a tomboy in a small, rural Minnesota town, I often felt lonely and isolated. As a member of the rainbow community, it has sometimes been difficult for me to find spaces that make me feel like I belong so I have consistently tried to create safe spaces wherever I go. Books and writing have always provided both escape and connection for me; this is one of the reasons why I wanted to open WordHaven BookHouse.
I discovered Sheboygan 25 years ago and knew that someday I would live here. I moved here in July of 2022 and am committed to helping make it a more equitable place to live. My experiences as a high school English teacher, a TeamBuilder, an Equity 2.0 Consultant, a Minnesota State Teacher of the Year, and a writer/author have all helped me prepare for this new adventure. And my background in social services and nonprofit work has deeply impacted my approach.
I am so grateful to all of the wonderful volunteers and community members who have helped me create such a safe, creative, and thriving space. And I want to continue to have events and products that represent a myriad of identities so that people can both see themselves in our shop AND increase their empathy for others.