The Spirit of ’76 Bookstore makes its home in lovely Marblehead, Massachusetts, a quintessential seafaring town of great beauty, charm and history, located 17 miles north of Boston. Spirit was founded February 15, 1965 by independent bookstore veteran Robert W. Hugo, who also owns the Andover Bookstore in Andover, MA and the Book Rack Bookstore in Newburyport, MA, Spirit's sister stores.

The fabulous, friendly and well-read staff at the Spirit of ’76 take pride in being able to suggest titles based on customer reader interest in many areas. Our staff reflects a diversity of age and interests, which are reflected in the choices on the extensive and bestselling “Staff Picks” wall. Do you want a recommendation on the hottest new work of fiction? Spirit has plenty. Are you a mystery story buff? Let us introduce you to an author with whom you may not be familiar. Cookbooks? You’ll find our favorite picks (although it’s difficult to choose from our extensive culinary selections!). Perhaps we can lure you with a book from our Nautical shelves, if you’re a sailing aficionado or love stories about amazing seafaring voyages. Because our Children’s book area is one of the most active sections of the store, we have a Staff Picks section there, including our thumbnail reviews of picture books, middle readers, and young adult books.

In addition to an extensive selection of newer and older titles on just about every subject matter, we have a fantastic Card Room filled with beautiful and unique stationery, gift wrap, ribbon and MUCH more!

Whatever be your literary needs, Spirit is here to help!