50 Years of Northshire Bookstore

Northshire Bookstore is celebrating 50 years of independent bookselling in 2026 and will host a full day of family-friendly public festivities to mark the milestone on August 8th at both their Manchester Center in Vermont and Saratoga Springs locations. Limited edition merchandise commemorating the 50th is available now in both stores.

At Northsire’s Saratoga location, on August 8th, activities will include a free photo booth, scavenger hunt, magician Alan Edstrom, story time, a prize wheel, and face painting.  

“Northshire is more than a bookstore, it’s a destination for readers, gift-givers, vinyl lovers, and anyone seeking a welcoming place to gather, discover, and connect,” says Scott Austin, COO and Co-Owner.

Northshire Bookstore was founded by the Morrow family in Manchester Center, Vermont in 1976.

In 2021, ownership transitioned to the French family and in the fall of 2022, Cathleen Ihasz, Nicole Ihasz, Ashley Ihasz-Austin, and Scott Austin became stewards of the iconic bookstore, continuing its tradition as a family-owned business.

“Our primary mission is to honor the legacy of the business, while also creating new initiatives that create additional value for our loyal guests and encourage future generations to discover Northshire’s magic,” Scott says.

The Ihasz sisters grew up among the stacks in the Manchester store, and the family’s collective backgrounds in hospitality, finance, and entertainment legacy preservation made for a strong fit with the store’s operational needs.

“Northshire has always held a special place in our family’s heart, so when the opportunity came to carry it forward, we didn’t hesitate,” says Nicole. “We are so grateful for the team that makes this store the kind of place people return to for a lifetime.”

Customers can learn more about the 50th anniversary schedule of events by visiting northshire.com.