What's on

Mindfulness, Painting and Music Workshop

Performance Space

Get creative at our free craft activities inspired by Black History Month. Artist Tina Ramos Ekongo and musician Johanna Leung will help you do some mindful painting to music. This workshop is suitable for families and lasts two hours. All materials are provided. Free - no booking required Please make a donation to support our […]

Half Term Science Special

Performance Space

Who said that science can’t be fun? Join our science-inspired activities for half term. You will make balloon rockets and find out how strong paper can be! Free, just drop in. Suitable for families. Free – just drop in. For more information email angela.rawcliffe@manchester.gov.uk  Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme […]

Word Central

Performance Space

Word Central Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word. Presented by Flapjack Press and Manchester Libraries. Hosted by Tony Curry with special guest Oliver James Lomax. Tuesday 29th October, 6.00pm – 7.45pm. Doors open 5.40pm and free entry. October’s special guest Oliver James Lomax is a poet, educator and trustee of Salford’s Working-Class Movement Library, whose poems are […]

Instruments in Chinese Music: The erhu

Performance Space

Join us and the Manchester Confucius Institute for talk hosted by Po Hang Yuen, focusing on the historical development of the erhu, or Chinese fiddle. With Chinese conductor, erhu player, and pianist Xinjie Yang, we will explore how the instrument is made and learn about its diverse repertoire since the early 20th century. Free - book tickets here

Crime Central Halloween Special!

Performance Space

Rob Parker and Manchester Libraries invite you to a CRIME CENTRAL SPOOKTACULAR!! With Jo Callaghan, Graeme Cumming and Steve Kedie! Bringing the best from all over! Featuring the best and brightest crime writing talent both locally and from around the country - the big names are all coming to Manchester! Go behind the scenes! Showcasing […]

Richard Powers

Performance Space

Pulitzer Prize winner Richard Powers (The Overstory) makes a rare visit to the UK in support of his compelling new, Booker Prize-longlisted novel Playground. The tiny island of Makatea in French Polynesia unites four people: Evie, one of the first female divers, now in her 90s; Ina, an artist who creates large sculptures from the […]

Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration

Performance Space

Come and join us for Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a unique and ancient Mexican celebration. This exciting event will feature traditional dances performed by Colibri Mexican Folkdance UK, themed activities, craft workshops, and a typical Mexican altar. Suitable for all ages! Suitable for all ages Free - please consider making a donation […]

Hey Duggee on Loop!

Performance Space

Celebrate Hey Duggee’s tenth anniversary with ten specially selected episodes of the celebrated pre-school children’s animated television series, on a loop, as part of the Manchester Animation Festival. Free - drop in. Please consider making a donation if you can either online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Christmas Drag Bingo with Angel Delight!

Performance Space

The tinseltastic Angel Delight returns to Central Library this November for an early festive treat! Why not celebrate the opening of the Christmas Markets then join us at Central Library for a special cabaret evening of singalongs, bongo bingo and loads more party games! Tickets are limited. Bar open all evening. 18+ only.

A History of Pies and Puddings

Performance Space

Explore the history of some our most beloved British foods with local food historian Neil Buttery: pies and puddings, from their rather posh origins to the present day, where they are beloved by all (and treated with suspicion by some). Both have a fascinating and rather convoluted history, and Neil will talk you through the […]

Christmas Silent Disco!

Performance Space

The ever popular Retro Silent Disco returns for a Christmas Special at Central Library! Join DJ John for a night of 70's, 80's and 90's hits, with a sprinkling of Manchester bands and festive classics throughout. Bar open all night. Christmas jumpers and party gear recommended! Doors open 8pm. Tickets are still the bargain £10 […]