Libraries 175: Celebrating 175 years of the Public Libraries Act 1850
Pop in and view this fascinating exhibition at Central Library – Libraries 175: Celebrating 175 years of the Public Libraries Act 1850.
175 years ago the Public Libraries Act was passed, which allowed Local Authorities to raise taxes to fund free public libraries. The borough of Manchester was the first borough in the country to open a free public library under the new Public Libraries Act. Manchester Free Library opened on 6th September 1852 at Campfield.
Commenting on the exhibition, Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure said:
‘Libraries are more than books and always have been. They play an important role at the heart of our communities, providing huge opportunities for learning and community engagement. The legacy of the Public Libraries Act reminds us that we need to keep investing in these vital spaces and adapting them to make them relevant for the communities they serve. Libraries have always been places of inspiration which is why they deserve our continued support.’
Neil MacInnes, OBE, Head of Service, Libraries, Galleries and Culture said:
‘Manchester has a proud history of investing in its libraries. We work hard to ensure they remain relevant to our communities, adapting and changing to the current needs and we will continue to look after and promote libraries for future generations. They are and will continue to be the heart and soul of learning, development and nourishment and long may they remain so.’
Free – please drop in.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online
