Ongoing

In the ordinary, there is always the extraordinary

Ground Floor (Oculus Area)

As a working-class artist and photographer, Tricia Ashworth has always been fascinated by what society deems ordinary. The beauty, the nuances, humour, strength and steeliness of everyday life in the […]

Schinkel in Manchester 1826-2026

Wolfson Reading Room

An exhibition of architectural models by students from the Manchester School of Architecture of early nineteenth buildings in Berlin and Manchester created to celebrate the bicentenary of the brief visit […]

Photo Exhibition: What Makes a Great Coach?

First Floor

Hosted by the charity Women in Sport, this photo exhibition celebrates everything women bring to coaching. Still in 2026, women are still undervalued and underrepresented in sports coaching. Women in […]

Threads of a City: The Manchester Tapestry Project – Stitching Workshops

Lwr Ground Floor - Manchester Histories Hub

Join Manchester Histories for Threads of a City: The Manchester Tapestry Project, an ambitious community artwork celebrating the stories, people and heritage of Greater Manchester. Together, communities are helping to […]

Library Lunchtime Choir

Henry Watson Music Library

Fancy a sing on your lunch break? Or just a feel-good sing to boost your day? Then come along to our regular Library Lunchtime Choir session! There is no pressure […]

Talk English Circles

Recurring
Lower Ground Floor

Come along to Talk English Circles at Manchester Central Library to practise speaking English and meet other people. Learn English, build skills and step into ESOL with this programme funded […]

Chess Drop In (Cultural Welcome Week)

Recurring
Ground Floor (Handling Tables)

Calling all chess players! Head to our handling tables area and put your skills to the test. Meet other players and meet your match at this informal and fun drop-in […]

Vinyl DJ Workshop (Cultural Welcome Week)

Henry Watson Music Library

Come down to the Henry Watson Music Library for this relaxed, beginner‑friendly Vinyl DJ workshop - part of the Cultural Welcome Week at Central Library.  Led by vinyl DJ and […]