BOOK ISLE was established in Stevens Point, Wisconsin USA in 1983 and was later purchased by Michele Patrykus. Friendship with Cy Korte developed into a working relationship selling BI's used book overstock on the Internet in 1997. BI expanded to include new books and some special items during the following years and finally launched eBookIsle domain on Labor Day, 2001. We now have a complete web store at ebookisle.net / ebookisle.com. In 2006 the Patrykus family purchased a building and BOOK ISLE is now has a permanent home on Business Highway 51 (2212 Division Street)
Cy and Michele's friendship has evolved into 2 separate stores working together with Michele Patrykus at the brick store BOOK ISLE PAPERBACKS in Stevens Point and Cy Korte working from Wisconsin Rapids at the Internet store eBOOKISLE.
BI has "FOR THE FUNd' section -- profits from items sold here are donated to charity (SPARTA Scholarship Fund and Wisconsin MS Society are among charities we support ... email us for more information -- or if you wish to donate items for sale to help BI's fund raising efforts)
MEET Cy Korte:
Before the age of "Terrible 2", the nic-name Cyanne Pepper was earned for a hot temper when frustrated. As the fuse of my temper lengthened with maturity, my nic-name was shortened to Cy [pronounced Ki]. I married in 1972 while in college to a unique man - obviously he's a keeper! OR maybe it is because he generally feels I need a keeper? ;-)
Our 2 sons have made their own home but remain as close as a call when we need help. In November, 1998 Christopher was born; Sarah was born November 2001, Carol was born October 2005 and Teegan arrived April 2008 giving Tom & Bonnie a full house. Becky and Joe's daughter, Emily was born April 2002 and Faith arrived April 2010.
I have worn many hats. Business college, various part-time jobs as my children have grown, managing our family's Mini-golf business and now eBOOKISLE (NEW & Used online book store) and volunteer work has supplied varied and interesting life experiences. [I plead the 5th on any "war stories" you may have heard!] Presently 'early retirement' feels better than expected and we are enjoying the schedule flexibility if not the medical restrictions. Chuck's diagnosis of Progressive MS has affected all of the family - it is not only Chuck who has learned to cope.
As Manager for New Book Department at the brick store and eBOOKISLE, I occasionally personally review books. You may contact me at eBOOKISLE if you wish to discuss having your book reviewed by myself [Electronic format review copies accepted]
MEET MICHELE PATRYKUS:
I live a quiet life... or as quiet as it can be living on the family farm with two sisiters and caring for horses, ducks, bunnies, dogs and barn cats. My time at BOOK ISLE is enough city life for me! I purchased BOOK ISLE from a friend and several years later we purchased a building and moved the store to its permanent home. Being diabetic while working across the street from Belt's Ice Cream and Colligans Bakery can be a diet challenge.
I do not have internet access and I trust to Cy to bring emails and online information to me. It's not that I am not interested, I just need an interpreter when it comes to electronics. (That's Cy)
OTHER BI STAFF:
- Cats rule -- BI has 3 resident felines --
Foxy, Orville and Fancy
- Terry: Michele's niece and resident artist (Terry works in the loft above the store painting and making pottery. You can see some of her works displayed in BI's store windows and shops around town.) Terry occasionally helps at the store and brings Charlie, her German Shepard to the store while she works. (The cats have a peacful agreement with Charlie - usually)
- Katie: Beloved retiree who has been with BI before Michele purchased the store. Katie is a book lover and 'snowbird' who works at BI as needed when she returns to Wisconsin for the summer.
- Kristina: Occasionally works at BI when Michele needs time off.
- Elfri, Diane and assorted Family members: work behind the scenes assisting Cy and Michele when needs must -- we thank our Friends and Family for taking time from their own busy schedules to help keep things run smoothly.
