What is sober-ish?

We don’t serve hard alcohol at Tardigrade’s Bookshelf. Our drink menu focuses on non-alcoholic options and thoughtfully crafted mocktails. We aim to offer a social experience without the overstimulation or intoxication of a typical bar.

Is this an all ages venue?

Yes, we are technically an all-ages venue — but we are very much an adult-oriented space. While children are welcome during our regular hours and events (unless otherwise noted), this isn’t a play space or a kid-focused environment. Think more like a cozy lounge or nerdy coffee shop — not a spot for juice boxes and playdates.

Our space is designed for grown-up conversations, solo reading, slow drinks, and low-stimulation socializing. We serve non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages in a bar-like setting, surrounded by books — including some with mature themes. If your child can enjoy that kind of atmosphere respectfully, they’re more than welcome.

We love curious kids, but our goal is to maintain a space that’s calm, inclusive, and centered on adult interests. This includes our book clubs, which are definitely for grown-ups — and often feature spicy reads, big ideas, and unfiltered conversation. Thanks for helping us protect that vibe.

Will you have the game on?

Nope.

Why science based books?

As avid purchasers of books (for our children as parents, as a librarian purchasing for the public and school libraries, and as a teacher for our classrooms).. . it is disappointing how many titles sneak through that are misleading, have inaccurate science, and are generally of poor quality. Don’t get us wrong, there are some great stories that stretch the science. But, was it intentional to be humorous or to carry the plot, or was it more from a lack of understanding of the science? There’s a difference, it may be a subtle difference, but it’s there. Topics depicted as being based in science and research but getting the science oh so wrong are doing a disservice to both you and to the overall public understanding of science. We want better for your bookshelf.

How do you select books?

We take book selection seriously — and with a sense of curiosity (and a bit of fun). Every title on our shelves is handpicked with intention. We believe science is everywhere — in cooking, hobbies, and yes, even smut — so we look for books that showcase that connection in unexpected and engaging ways.

Our focus is on quality and accuracy. We review each book to make sure it reflects sound science, avoids misinformation or bogus claims, and is made to last. That means high-quality images, durable binding and print production, and content that respects both the reader and the subject. Whether it’s a deep dive into astronomy or a romance novel with clever anatomy references, we want you to learn something and enjoy yourself.

Why would I purchase books here instead of Amazon or Barnes and Noble?

Um, because we’re awesome, you want to support small businesses, you are also a science enthusiast, and you want your purchase curated by a librarian and science teacher to make sure it’s not poop.

So is everything this store has a non-fiction science book?

Nope. Science is in EVERYTHING! Well, maybe not everything, but you get the point. Our intent is to bring science onto your bookshelf in many different forms. Novels written by scientists, cookbooks, science fiction, history that was made with scientific discoveries, topics that are discussed with studies to back the information, really anything at all!

Where is your place?

We are located in the old Appleton VFW building. 501 N Richmond St. Appleton, WI.

Why does your business post political content?

We are values-driven, veteran-owned, and community-centered. We believe in transparency and want customers to know that their money goes toward causes and conversations that reflect equity, science, and human dignity.