Family

Looking for a fun way to introduce children to important environmental issues? Sarah Roberts, author of the acclaimed Somebody Swallowed Stanley, will be sharing her latest beautifully illustrated book Somebody Woke Wilson. For millions of years, Wilson has slept toasty deep underground, along with billions of other carbon atoms. But when Wilson is suddenly woken, he is […]

The history of Caribbean Carnivals is much more complex than many realise.  Carnival has origins based in colonialism and religious conversion, but it has now become a festival and celebration tied to freedom and emancipation from slavery.  Learn about how established African-Caribbean communities transferred the traditions associated with carnival to Manchester as we explore the […]

Come in from the cold to our Sunday Winter Warmer – a special Sunday afternoon opening for the family to have some fun and keep toasty. We'll have crafts, entertainment and nice treats. Suitable for families. Free – please make a donation to support our cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation […]

Behind The Lens is this year's theme for LGBT+ history month. Join us to celebrate at our animation workshop inspired by popular culture. All are welcome at this free drop-in. This activity is suitable for ages 8+ Free - just drop in - please consider making a donation to support our cultural programme if you can, […]

Join us for a day of children’s music activities! 11:30 - Rhyme Time Stories and songs. 12:20 - HWML instruments A brief showing of some of the music library’s instruments, originating in different time periods and places around the world. Feel free to ask questions! 12:40 - Children’s instruments Xylophones, maracas, triangles, ukuleles and much […]

Directly after Manchester’s City Council’s Walk for Women, the celebration continues here with a festival event featuring musical performances, speeches from influential and strong women in and around Manchester, Mexican dance, spoken word, and an amazing African fashion show! Find out more about the work going on in Manchester’s communities at the variety of information […]

Join us for an afternoon of fun with the family as we celebrate the Festival of Libraries, showcasing what Central Library has to offer and including our amazing crafts and face painting offers, amongst many other treats. Free – drop in – please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one […]

Manchester Histories is excited to be working in partnership with Scary Little Girls and Greenham Women Everywhere to bring three fantastic events to Manchester Histories Hub and the Performance Space in Manchester Central Library from Monday 7 – Tuesday 8 August.  Join us as Common Ground explores the stories and significance of Greenham Common protest camps […]

Join The Lowry team at Central Library to get a taste of their newest free family exhibition: Julia and Axel – celebrating 30 Years of Favourite Stories. From arts and crafts to interactive storytelling and engaging workshops, plus a chance to watch one of the stories on the big screen, the whole family can have fun […]

Sharpen your pencils and get your sports kit ready – it’s back to school! Come and decorate your own gym bag and more. Suitable for ages 4–11 Free – just drop in. Please support our cultural programme by donating at our cash or contactless donation boxes.

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at Central Library and Archives+? Join us on this fun, fact-filled library trail as we take you into the depths of our treasured venue. Tours take place on the hour - see links below to book: 1pm tour - book here 2pm tour - book here 3pm […]