While Gloucester is well known for its visual arts, the city’s literary traditions run just as deep. Today, independent bookstores, literary organizations, and local writers continue to celebrate the written word, making Gloucester a destination for book lovers and aspiring authors alike.
Gloucester’s literary legacy includes celebrated poets Charles Olson and Vincent Ferrini, whose work and influence helped establish the city as an important gathering place for writers and creative thinkers.
Ferrini, Gloucester’s first poet laureate, spent decades writing and welcoming fellow artists and writers into his home on East Main Street. His friendship with Olson, whose poetry often drew inspiration from Gloucester’s landscape and history, helped shape a literary community that continues to thrive today.
Gloucester Writers Center
Vincent Ferrini’s former home on Rocky Neck’s East Main Street is now home to the Gloucester Writers Center, a community space dedicated to preserving Cape Ann’s literary heritage while encouraging new generations of writers and storytellers.
Founded in 2010, the nonprofit organization hosts readings, writing workshops, open mic nights, lectures, and community events throughout the year. Its programming welcomes everyone from established authors to aspiring writers and those who simply enjoy listening to a good story.
One of the Center’s most popular annual programs is Fish Tales, a live storytelling series featuring true, personal stories shared by members of the community. Check the Gloucester Writers Center website ahead of your visit to see upcoming events, and add this stop to your itinerary for a day in Rocky Neck Art Colony.
The Bookstore of Gloucester: Your Next Great Read Awaits
There’s something special about spending a cozy fall afternoon browsing the shelves of an independent bookstore, and The Bookstore of Gloucester is a must-visit for readers exploring downtown.
Located at 61 Main Street, this longtime local favorite has been serving Cape Ann’s literary community since 1975. Visitors will find a thoughtfully curated selection of fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, poetry, local history, and more, along with greeting cards, journals, and unique gifts.
The Bookstore also hosts author events, book discussions, and other literary gatherings, making it more than just a place to shop.
Dogtown Books
Just a short stroll down Main Street, Dogtown Books offers another unique literary experience in the heart of Gloucester. Established in 1997, this independent bookstore specializes in new and gently used books, including rare and unusual finds, local history, poetry, art, and much more.
Named after Gloucester’s historic Dogtown settlement, the shop is a favorite destination for readers who love discovering unexpected treasures among the shelves.
Beyond its collection of books, Dogtown Books is also an active part of Gloucester’s creative community, hosting author events, workshops, open mic nights, and other opportunities for readers and writers to connect.
Sawyer Free Library
Located in the heart of downtown Gloucester, Sawyer Free Library has been a cornerstone of the community for more than a century. Following an extensive renovation and expansion, the library welcomes visitors into a beautiful, modern space designed to inspire learning, creativity, and connection.
Beyond its extensive collection of books, Sawyer Free Library offers a variety of programs and experiences for all ages, including author talks, book discussions, creative workshops, children’s activities, and community events. The library also has spaces dedicated to technology, learning, and collaboration, making it a destination for much more than reading.
Second Glance Thrift Store
For book lovers who enjoy the thrill of a great secondhand find, Second Glance Thrift Store is another must-visit stop in Gloucester. The store offers a fantastic selection of gently used books alongside clothing, home décor, artwork, furniture, and other one-of-a-kind treasures. With an ever-changing inventory, you never know what literary gems you might discover on the shelves!
Best of all, shopping at Second Glance supports The Open Door, a local nonprofit dedicated to fighting hunger throughout Cape Ann and surrounding North Shore communities. Proceeds from the thrift store directly benefit The Open Door’s hunger-relief programs, making it a wonderful place to stock up on your next reads while giving back to the community.
From its historic literary figures to the independent bookstores and creative organizations keeping their stories alive, Gloucester’s literary scene offers a unique way to experience the city’s arts and culture.
Spend an afternoon browsing Main Street’s bookstores, attend a reading or storytelling event, or discover a new favorite author with a connection to Cape Ann. You might even find a little inspiration to begin writing a story of your own!