Christmas Extravaganza!
2025-12-14 12:00 - 16:00 UTC | Performance Space
Join us at Central Library for a special Sunday opening as we celebrate all things Christmas. Bring the whole family and get stuck in our craft sessions, listen to Christmas carols perform by local choirs, including Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music, and much more!
Performance Programme
Ground Floor
12 noon – Loreto Big Band
12.45 – Chinese Community Choir from Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music
1.30 – Manchester Community Choir
2.15 – Streetwise Opera
3.00 – Manchester Musical Youth
Music Library
12.15-1pm – Stretford Ukulele
2-2.30 – Chinese Community Choir from Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music
+ Christmas family crafts throughout the afternoon
Suitable for families.
Free – drop in. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

French Storytime
2026-01-31 13:30 - 14:00 | Children’s Library
Join us for French Storytime to listen to stories in French and English, learn new words and make new friends!.
Suitable for children aged 4-7
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

VR Headset Experiences
2026-02-04 11:00 - 2026-02-07 19:00 | Ground Floor
For three weeks in February, Manchester Libraries will be hosting state-of-the-art VR headsets and a feast of FREE digital experiences.
Get ready for brand new immersive experiences with David Attenborough, and Laika – The First Dog In Space. Plus, Wallace & Gromit, The Berlin Blitz, Vaughan Williams’ ‘The Lark Ascending’, meditation experiences, and more.
Manchester Libraries are one of nine library services in England to take part in Digital Spaces, an innovative collaboration to enhance digital engagement and accessibility in libraries. This ambitious new programme is in association with Arts Council England, BFI, awarding National Lottery funding and The Space.
After a resoundingly successful debut last summer, which saw hundreds of Manchester residents dive into virtual realities, Manchester Libraries are delighted to confirm that the headsets will return for a series of FREE public drop-in sessions at Manchester Central Library (4-7 Feb), Abraham Moss Library (9-14 Feb), and Wythenshawe Forum (17-20 Feb).
Across the three weeks, visitors to these libraries will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an array of awe-inspiring virtual worlds featuring some familiar faces, plus leap into some brand new experiences too. Amongst the thrilling programme of VR offerings, the experiences on offer will include:

**New** Hold the World with Sir David Attenborough: Embark on a ground-breaking interactive VR tour of the Natural History Museum in London with the most iconic of guides. Sir David, who was filmed by more than 100 cameras and digitally recreated as a lifelike SD hologram for the experience, acts as a private guide, imparting his expert knowledge on rare objects from †he museum’s collection, including a blue whale, a stegosaurus, and more. Get hands-on with rare specimens from its world-famous collection, and experience priceless artefacts coming back to life.

Wallace & Gromit in the Grand Getaway: Step into the shoes (and paws) of the legendary Aardman duo as they blast-off on a cracking new adventure that will take you from the familiar sights of West Wallaby Street to the strange surroundings of deep space. An interactive treat – all in glorious VR-O-Rama!

**New** Laika – Witness one of the most poignant true stories in history with Laika, an immersive VR short film from BAFTA and Academy Award-winning director Asif Kapadia. Adapted from Nick Abadzis’ acclaimed graphic novel, Laika will transport you to the dawn of the Space Age as it tells the story of an unwanted stray dog who became Earth’s first space traveller.

The Philharmonia Virtual Orchestra – The Lark Ascending: Experience a mesmerising 360-degree performance of Vaughan Williams’ masterpiece featuring Nicola Benedetti.

Monoliths: Explore England’s northern landscape through the voices and spoken word of three women, in this poignant XR experience by Pilot Theatre and One to One Development Trust.

Berlin Blitz: 80 years on from VE Day, travel back in time to experience this especially tense period of WWII history from a seat in the cockpit of a Lancaster Bomber. Hold tight.

Phase Space: Escape from the hustle and bustle of life, with this calming, restorative and meditative experience. Feel calmer and more in control in just 7 minutes.

The VR headset experiences arrive as part of Manchester Libraries recently announced participation in the new Libraries Digital Network, a ground-breaking collaboration with eight other library services, including: Bradford, Cambridgeshire, Coventry, Leeds, Newham, Nottinghamshire, Somerset, and Sunderland. This innovative network is the first of its kind, uniquely combining local relevance with national impact. It aims to empower our local community and is supported by comprehensive training for our colleagues, who will guide our networks on exciting digital journeys.
The Digital Spaces VR headsets will be freely available to the public to experience in a series of open drop-in sessions throughout February.
Come along to a session at these dates and times as follows:
Wednesday 4 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [10.00 – 12.00]

Drop-In Session [13.00 – 15.00]

Drop-In Session [16.00 – 18.00]

Thursday 5 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [10.00 – 12.00]

Drop-In Session [13.00 – 15.00]

Drop-In Session [16.00 – 18.00]

Friday 6 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [9.00 – 11.00]

Drop-In Session [12.00 – 14.00]

Drop-In Session [15.00 – 16.45]

Saturday 7 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [10.00 – 12.00]

Drop-In Session [14.00 – 16.00]

Monday 9 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Tuesday 10 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Wednesday 11 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Friday 13 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Saturday 14 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Tuesday 17 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Wednesday 18 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Thursday 19 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Friday 20 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

All sessions are free – just drop in.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Timeless Cyprus: A Workshop for Children Aged 6-14
2026-02-07 14:30 - 16:30 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us for a theatrical–narrative journey through art, memory and home. In this workshop, children and young people will explore the world of Cypriot artist George Pol. Georgiou. Guided by the artworks, children explore everyday elements that appear in Georgiou’s paintings — chairs, houses, horses — and transform them into symbols of feelings, stories and lived experiences. A simple chair may become a keeper of memories; a house, a feeling of belonging; light, both the sun of Cyprus and the hope we carry within us. Through movement, narration, observation and creative play, participants encounter the artist and his work not as distant museum objects, but as living stories filled with light, memory and emotion.
The event includes a screening of The Myths of Cyprus by Mark Kassinos, starting at 3.30pm. Check out the full programme below:
2.30-3.30pm: Workshop
3.30-4.30pm: Film Screening: The Myths of Cyprus by Mark Kassinos, produced by The Press and Information Office in Cyprus.
Suitable for children aged 6-14.
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

Chinese New Year Celebration - Sunday Funday
2026-02-15 11:30 - 16:00 | Ground Floor
Chinese New Year is one of the biggest events of the year at Central Library and the venue will be celebrating the Year of the Horse in epic fashion.
Families, children, schools, and community members are warmly invited to join us for performances, hands-on cultural activities, and fun learning experiences provided by Bowen Education, Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music, Confucius Institute, Manchester Chinese Centre, and more!
11 – 11:30am (on St Peter’s Square): Lion dance performance!
11:30am: Central Library doors open
Central Library Performance Space (Ground Floor)
12 – 1:30pm: Bowen Education – Stage performances by local schools and community groups – including dance, music, and other creative interpretations of Chinese culture and traditions
2 – 4pm: Performances and Workshops for Children with Manchester Chinese Centre
Central Library Ground Floor (near café)
12 – 4:00pm Cake decorating with Sarah Cook Stars
Central Library Lower Ground Floor
12 – 4pm: Family Craft Workshops with Central Library, Manchester Chinese Centre and Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with local artists Caroline Coates, Mandy Cleveland, and friends! Expect lantern making, paper horses, and much, much more.
12 – 2pm: Bracelet making with Confucius Institute
2 – 4pm: Crafts by Bowen Education

Free arts and crafts workshops for children
Children’s artwork display: Special exhibition of student creations for Chinese New Year
Hanfu photo booth: Try on traditional Chinese costumes and take photos
Chinese calligraphy station: Have your name written in Chinese brush calligraphy.

Is it all a bit too exciting? Why not take a moment away from the crowds in our quiet space in the Music Library (First Floor), 11:30am – 4pm.
Free event – drop in (note – face painting £2)
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Daily Drop in Lego Workshop
2026-02-18 10:00 - 2026-02-21 17:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Love Lego? Pick your favourite bricks and build your own creations – from castles to spaceships and everything in between! Come and let your imagination run wild in the world of Lego, with Bricklands. Suitable for all ages.
Part of Super Duper Family Festival. Discover the full programme at https://www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival/
Free, no need to book – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Little Reads
2026-02-18 11:00 - 11:30, 2026-02-21 11:00 - 11:30 | Children’s Library
Brought to you by Manchester Literature Festival, Little Reads is a fun and interactive workshop using drama, dance, songs, play, and craft to explore children’s picture books. Most suitable for children aged 2–6, but all family members are welcome.
Part of Super Duper Family Festival. Discover the full programme at https://www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival/
Free – just drop in.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Crochet Club: Family Edition!
2026-02-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Calling all budding crafters! Join this relaxed crochet session and get creative with yarn. All materials are provided – just bring yourself! Most suitable for children 10+.
Part of Super Duper Family Festival. Discover the full programme at https://www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival/
Free – Booking required – Reserve your place here or click on ‘Book Now’ below
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Music Crafts
2026-02-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join a hands-on craft session all about music. Ever made a harmonica from lolly sticks and toothpicks? Come and give it a try! Most suitable for ages 4+.
Part of Super Duper Family Festival. Discover the full programme at https://www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival/
Free entry – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

International Mother Language Day
2026-02-21 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Celebrate the languages and cultures of Manchester’s local communities. Enjoy live performances, and try your hand at traditional crafts. Suitable for all ages, everyone is welcome. ]
Part of Super Duper Family Festival. Discover the full programme at https://www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival/
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation to support our cultural programme if you can, either online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Spanish Storytime - CANCELLED
2026-02-28 14:30 - 15:15 | Children’s Library
PLEASE NOTE – THIS MONTH’S STORYTIME HAS BEEN CANCELLED. THE NEXT SPANISH STORYTIME IS 14 MARCH
Hola! Come and join María at the Spanish Story Time monthly sessions, where you can listen to a story in Spanish and learn phrases and vocabulary, whilst having fun. We end each session making a simple craft related to the story.
Suitable for children aged 4-7
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation to support our cultural programme if you can, either online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

National Memorial Day of Hungary
2026-03-14 11:00 - 14:00 | Performance Space
Join us for a wonderful day of celebration of Hungarian independence organised by the Hungarian Consulate in Manchester. Watch special performances of traditional music and dances and meet the Hungarian community in Manchester.
Please note that this event will be in Hungarian.
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

Japanese Manga Drawing Workshops
2026-03-21 12:30 - 15:00 | Performance Space
Are you a manga fan aged 12-18 in Manchester? Join our FREE workshop with manga artist Inko and learn to draw manga with step-by-step instructions!

If you are you a young manga fan or interested in Japanese folktales and myths, then why not join one of two hands-on workshop in Manchester Central Library led by manga artist Inko to learn more about manga and discover the fascinating world of Japanese yokai – monsters/spirits from Japanese folklore. Inko will teach you step-by-step how to draw one of the most famous yokai characters, Kappa, in the manga style!
These workshops are a great chance to learn more about manga and manga drawing skills, Japanese myths and stories, and ask questions to a professional manga artist. All materials will be provided on the day, and you don’t need to have any experience to join in; all levels of drawing skill are welcome!
Please note that these workshops are for young people aged 12-18 only. If you are booking on behalf of someone, you will be required to provide the name and age for each participant that you book for.
Book a free place on the first session 12.30-1.30pm here: Japanese Manga Drawing Workshop (Manchester) for ages 12-18 Tickets, Saturday, Mar 21 from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm | Eventbrite
Book a free place on the first session 2-3pm here: Japanese Manga Drawing Workshop (Manchester) for ages 12-18 Tickets, Saturday, Mar 21 from 2 pm to 3 pm | Eventbrite
If the sessions are sold out, you will be placed on waiting list and will be contacted if spaces become available.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Storytime and Mindfulness for Children (4+ years)
2026-03-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us for this relaxing session led by Psychologist Özlem Bakan Yavaş. We will be reading stories and learning about feelings in a comfortable and safe environment. We will finish each session with a calming and mindful craft. Suitable for children aged 4+.
Book your free spot on Eventbrite here
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Taliesin - Puppet Theatre Performance and Puppet Making Workshop
2026-04-25 14:00 - 15:45 | Children’s Library
Join us at Manchester Central Library for a story of magic, shape shifting and an epic chase – with puppets!

Puppet theatre performance, 2-3pm
Puppet making workshop: 3-3:45pm

Most suitable for ages 5+, but for the whole family to enjoy.
Free – drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online.

Family Space Adventures
2026-05-09 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Calling all future star explorers! Join us at Central Library for a space-themed day of fun as we celebrate the arrival of Planetarium Go! in Manchester. Get ready for space hopping, wacky experiments, moon walking, moon rock races, and more!
Free – just drop in.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Family Film Club: Planetarium Go! Special
2026-05-16 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Calling all space explorers – join us for a special edition of our Family Film Club! Bring the family for an afternoon of themed activities as we celebrate the arrival of Planetarium Go! in Manchester. Most suitable for under 12s. Visit librarylive.co.uk for more information.
Free – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online.

Half Term Holidays Programme
2026-05-26 09:00 - 2026-05-30 17:00
Looking for some family fun over the holidays? Check out our full half-term activity programme. With crafts, games, and activities to be found across the library every day of the holidays, come and discover a world of fun right here in the library. All materials will be provided – you just need to pack your imagination!

Children’s crafts for Eid

Tuesday 26 May, 2-4pm
Lower Ground Floor
Join us at Central Library for an interactive craft workshop as we prepare for Eid. We will provide all the materials to make Eid-themed bookmarks, just bring yourself! Suitable for children. Free entry, just drop in.

Ducklee Adventures Storytime

Wednesday 27 May, 2-3pm
Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)

Join local children’s author Sabrina Martins Alauf for a gentle storytelling and colouring session inspired by her children’s book series, Ducklee Adventures. Children and families will meet Ducklee, a curious and kind-hearted little duck who explores friendship, discovery and gentle adventures. The session will include an introduction to the story, an interactive chat with the children and Ducklee-themed colouring activities. Free entry, just drop in.

Railway-themed Crafts

Wednesday 27 May, 2-3.30pm
Lower Ground Floor
Join us for an interactive craft session as we draw the curtain on the 200th anniversary of the invention of the modern railway. We’ll be making some lovely paper trains and a colourful railway track. Suitable for children aged 4-10. All materials provided, just bring yourself. Free entry, just drop in.

Farsi Storytime

Thursday 28 May, 11-12
Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)
Join us for a fun and interactive storytime session in Farsi and English! Expect singing and crafts as we learn new words and make new friends. Suitable for children aged 4-7. Free entry, just drop in.

Polish Heritage Month Family Crafts

Thursday 28 May, 1-4pm
Performance Space
Join us for a fun and interactive craft session for children aged 4-7. We will be celebrating Polish Heritage Month by creating cardboard radios, and much more! We’ll provide all the materials, just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! Free entry, just drop in.

LEGO Robotics Workshops (children)

Friday 29 May, 2-4pm
Lower Ground Floor
In this hands-on LEGO robotics workshop, children work in small teams to design and build their own racing robots without step-by-step instructions, encouraging creativity and problem-solving. They then program their robots using simple block-based coding to detect and avoid obstacles using motion sensors. Once complete, robots are tested through fun challenges, racing and navigating courses, combining engineering, teamwork and creativity in an engaging session. Recommended age: 8-13. Free entry, just drop in.

Italian Storytime

Saturday 30 May, 11.30am-12 noon
Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)
Our monthly sessions are interactive and fun, involving a blend of themed stories, rhymes and a final craft activity. Learn new phrases while gesturing, chanting and singing. We can’t wait to meet you! Suitable for children aged 4 to 7. Free – just drop in.

Spanish Storytime

Saturday 30 May, 12pm–12.45pm
Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)
Hola! Join María at our monthly sessions to listen to a story in Spanish, learn phrases and vocabulary, and have fun! We end each session with a simple craft to make something related to the story. Suitable for children aged 4 to 7. Free – just drop in.
Free – just drop in.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Ducklee Adventures Storytime
2026-05-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Children’s Library
Join local children’s author Sabrina Martins Alauf for a gentle storytelling and colouring session inspired by her children’s book series, Ducklee Adventures. Children and families will meet Ducklee, a curious and kind-hearted little duck who explores friendship, discovery and gentle adventures. The session will include an introduction to the story, an interactive chat with the children and Ducklee themed colouring activities.
Free – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Railway Themed Crafts
2026-05-27 14:00 - 15:30 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us for an interactive craft session as we draw the curtain on the 200th anniversary of the invention of the modern railway. We’ll be making some lovely paper trains and a colourful railway track. Suitable for children aged 4-10. All materials provided, just bring yourself.
Free – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Farsi Storytime
2026-05-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Children’s Library
Join us for a fun and interactive storytime session in Farsi and English! Expect singing and crafts as we learn new words and make new friends. Suitable for children aged 4-7.
Free – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Polish Heritage Month Family Crafts
2026-05-28 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Join us for a fun and interactive craft session for children aged 4-7. We will be celebrating Polish Heritage Month by creating cardboard radios, and much more! We’ll provide all the materials, just bring your creativity and enthusiasm!
Free – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

LEGO Robotics Workshops
2026-05-29 14:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
A hands-on LEGO robotics workshop for children. Children work in small teams to design and build your own racing robots without step-by-step instructions, encouraging creativity and problem-solving. They then program their robots using simple block-based coding to detect and avoid obstacles using motion sensors. Once complete, robots are tested through fun challenges, racing and navigating courses, combining engineering, teamwork and creativity in an engaging session.
Recommended age: 8-13.
Free – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Persian Calligraphy Workshop
2026-06-20 11:00 - 13:00 | Lower Ground Floor
We are hosting a community Persian Calligraphy taster session led by Iranian artist Sareh Moradi. This welcoming workshop invites participants to come together and explore the beauty of calligraphy through shared creativity. Guided by Sareh, you will learn the basics of traditional lettering, experiment with ink and reed pens, and connect with others in a relaxed, supportive environment. Open to all levels, the session offers a chance to experience the joy of making art as a community.
Free entry – 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

Refugee Week Celebrations
2026-06-20 11:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us for a special day of events celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Experience a community Persian Calligraphy taster session led by Iranian artist Sareh Moradi, join storytime sessions, and much more.
Programme

Persian Calligraphy workshop
11am-1pm

Lower Ground Floor

We are hosting a community Persian Calligraphy taster session led by Iranian artist Sareh Moradi. This welcoming workshop invites participants to come together and explore the beauty of calligraphy through shared creativity. Guided by Sareh, you will learn the basics of traditional lettering, experiment with ink and reed pens, and connect with others in a relaxed, supportive environment. Open to all levels, the session offers a chance to experience the joy of making art as a community.

Storytimes

1-2pm Arabic

3-4pm Farsi

Children’s Library

Listen to stories and songs in English and other languages. Suitable for 4-7 year-olds.

Free entry – 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

Dragon Boat Festival Celebration
2026-06-20 14:00 - 16:00
Join us for an interactive session celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival with Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music. Learn about this traditional Chinese holiday by making your own mugwort sachet and designing your own kite during this fun and engaging workshop. Suitable for children.
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

Read to the Beat: School Holidays Programme
2026-07-01 08:00 - 2026-08-29 17:00
School’s out and the Summer Reading Challenge is in! Join us at Central Library and discover a jam-packed programme of free activities for the whole family! From Lego clubs to family crafts, from film screenings to DJing and Ukulele groups, there is something for everyone! Make new friends and discover how to take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge in a fun and interactive way.
Check out the full programme below:
Little Movers and Shakers – Monday 3 August, 11-11:30am – Music Library (1st Floor)
Calling all little groovers! Show us some moves at this fun and interactive music and dance session. We’ll bring the music, so get ready to hit the dancefloor! Suitable for children up to 4 years old. Free entry, just turn up.
Summer Reading Challenge: Read and Rave! – Monday 3 August, 2-3.30pm – Music Library
Meet DJ Mu-Mu who will demonstrate the art of turntables and vinyl at our Read & Rave activity! Children can bop, dance, do a musical worksheet or read! Children will be able to have 5 minutes each on the decks. Space is limited for turntable activity, but the read & rave is open to all to enjoy the music and reading! Suitable for ages 4-11. Book your free ticket via the Eventbrite link
Summer Reading Challenge: Ukulele Taster session – Tuesday 4 August, 2-4pm – Music Library
Join Jim Wallace for a fun and relaxed beginner ukulele session for children. No experience is needed and instruments are provided. Kids will learn a few simple chords, play familiar songs, and enjoy making music together in a friendly, small-group setting. Suitable for ages 7+. Places are limited, so booking is required on Eventbrite. Book your free ticket via the Eventbrite link
Lego Club – Wednesday 5, 12, 19, 26 August, 1.30-3.30pm & Saturday 8 August, 2-3pm – Lower Ground Floor
Do you love Lego? So do we! Drop in, pick your favourite bricks and build anything that takes your fancy. From castles to spaceships, the possibilities are endless! First come first served. Suitable for ages 4 and above.  Free, just drop in.
Craft Session: Princess Hat Making – Thursday 6 August, 2-4pm – Lower Ground Floor
Join us at Central Library for a fun and interactive craft workshop where we will be making princess hats. We’ll provide all the materials, just bring your creativity. Free entry, just drop in.
Film Fridays – various dates below – Friday 7, 14, 21 & 28 August, 1-4pm – Performance Space
Unleash the musical theatre kid in you with this programme of music-themed films! Watch a family classic on the library’s huge screen, get involved in music-themed crafts and find out how you can take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Suitable for children up to 12 years old. Free entry, just drop in.
Ukrainian Storytime – Saturday 8 August, 1.30-2pm – Children’s Library
Привіт! Join our monthly Ukrainian storytelling sessions! Learn new words, listen to stories in Ukrainian and English and have fun! Suitable for children aged 4 to 7. Free – just drop in.
Arabic Storytime – Saturday 8 August, 2-3pm – Children’s Library
Join us in Central Library’s Children Library to hear stories and sing songs in Arabic and English. Learn new words and make new friends! Suitable for children aged 4-7. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online Free – just drop in.
Intergenerational Music Making: Access All Ages Creative Community Hub – Monday 10 August, 10-11:30am – Music Library
Intergenerational Music Making invites you to join our age inclusive creative sessions, designed to bring communities together. Every session will include opportunities to get creative through music, art, poetry, movement, storytelling, and meaningful conversations that bring people together. Held in the beautiful Henry Watson Music Library within Manchester Central Library, the sessions are relaxed, flexible, accessible and welcoming to everyone. Free – just drop in.
Summer Reading Challenge: Feel the Beat with Drumroots! – Monday 10 August, 2-3pm – Performance Space
Get ready to move, groove, and feel the rhythm! Drumroots brings the heart of Africa to life with high-energy drumming, vibrant beats, and joyful vibes. Whether you’re clapping, dancing, or drumming along, this is your chance to connect through rhythm and let the music tell a story. No experience needed, just bring your hands and your happy feet!! Suitable for ages 4-11. Space is limited. Book your free spot via this Eventbrite link
Summer Reading Challenge: Guitar Craft – Tuesday 11 August, 2-3:30pm – Lower Ground Floor
A relaxed, drop-in creative session inspired by music. Children can design and decorate their own cardboard guitars using craft materials. Join the “big doodle” artwork which will be passed around for everyone to add to. Music will play throughout to spark ideas and create a fun, shared atmosphere. Suitable for ages 4-11. Free entry, just drop in.
STEM Club – Thursday 13 August, 2-3:30pm – Lower Ground Floor
Put your lab coat and goggles on and join us for an interactive session that will get you excited about science! Expect spectacular hands-on experiments and lots of fun! Suitable for ages 6-11. Free entry, just drop in
Colouring to Music – Monday 17 & 24 August, 10.30am-12pm – Children’s Library
Join us for a relaxed colouring session in the children’s library. Let yourself be transported by the music and use the materials provided to create your next masterpiece. Perfect for those who want to discover the Summer Reading Challenge at their own pace. Free entry, just drop in.
Cosplay Teen event – Tuesday 18 August, 12-4pm – Performance Space
Join Manchester Central Library for this accessible and inclusive cosplay event for teens that has been co-created with young people. For those aged 12- 18, families welcome to attend with adults. Come in your best cosplay outfit, it might be bought or made by hand, it could be cosplay or wardrobe play, it can be anime, manga or book related. The event will be held in the Performance Space which will be closed to the public without a ticket. Photography of participants will only be allowed with express permission of the attendees. Open to young people aged 12-18. All adults must be accompanied by a 12–18-year-old or you may be refused entrance. Find out more via this Eventbrite link
Can You Dig It? Britannica Summer Challenge – Thursday 20 August, 2-4pm – Lower Ground Floor
Join us at Manchester City Library on 20 August between 2–4pm for Britannica Education’s “Can You Dig It?” Summer Reading event. This fossil-tastic drop-in event will provide a fun, dinosaur-themed activity kit to every attendee and the opportunity for children to explore Britannica Library to discover cool facts! Free entry, just drop in.
Muslim Dads Read Too! – Saturday 22 August, 2-4pm – Children’s Library

Join publishing house Little Hibba for a special event inviting Muslim dads to come along and enjoy reading with their little ones! Bring the whole family to Manchester Central Library’s children library to celebrate more Muslim books in the library. Expect reading sessions for children, colouring activities, and much more! Free entry! Book your ticket on Eventbrite.
Farsi Storytime – Monday 24 August, 3-4pm – Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)
Join us for a fun and interactive storytime session in Farsi and English! Expect singing and crafts as we learn new words and make new friends. Suitable for children aged 4-7. Free – just drop in.
Summer Reading Challenge Singing Puppet Craft Fun! – Tuesday 25 August, 2-3.30pm – Lower Ground Floor
Join artist Caroline for a fun, free Summer Reading Challenge activity! Get ready to sing, play, and create! Warm up your vocal cords and bring your puppet to life in this exciting craft session! Suitable for ages 4-11. Free – just drop in.
Pride Storytime – Thursday 27 August, 2-3pm – Children’s Library
Kick off your Pride weekend early with a special family story and craft session at Manchester Central Library. Join us for a fun and interactive storytime with songs, rhymes and Pride-themed picture books. Then get crafty! Create your own protest signs and noise-makers, to celebrate in style and make your voice heard! We will also have a range of LGBTQIA+ children’s books out to have a look at – share your favourites and discover something new! Suitable for children aged 4-7 and their families. Free – just drop in.
Storytelling: The Blossom Bird at Manchester Central Library,
Friday 28th August, 11am and 1pm, Saturday 29th August, 11am and 2pm, Henry Watson Music Library, 1st Floor
Join storytellers and puppeteers, The League of Curiosity, to hear the tale of The Blossom Bird. Meet Pipit, a lost and featherless little bird, who is taken in by a family of wildflowers. With their gentle guidance, Pipit learns what it means to belong, to grow, and to trust the magic of who they truly are. Through story, song, and movement, this tiny dreamer blossoms into their real self – cheered on by the family who chose them.
A heart-felt tale that celebrates the wisdom of flowers, the beauty of blooms, and the power of being just who you are!
Funded by the Postcode Lottery.
Book your free ticket via Eventbrite here

Storytime and Mindfulness for Children (4+ years)
2026-07-04 14:00 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join us for this relaxing session led by Psychologist Özlem Bakan Yavaş.
We will be reading stories and learning about feelings in a comfortable and safe environment. We will finish each session with a calming and mindful craft.
Suitable for children aged 4+.
Book your free spot via Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Family Film Club
2026-07-11 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Enjoy a special edition of the Central Library’s legendary Family Film Club! Bring the family for an afternoon of themed crafts and a family classic on the library’s huge screen. Screenings start at 1.30pm – drop in from 1pm. Most suitable for under 12s.
Free – drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online.
