Wonderland Sunday Funday at Central Library!
2025-08-31 12:00 - 16:00 UTC
Not quite ready for the end of the holidays? Join us at Central Library for a special end-of-summer extravaganza brought to you by Z-Arts and Manchester Libraries!
*FULL PROGRAMME*
Yoga and movement sessions for children
Performance Space (Ground Floor)
Start times: 12pm, 1pm
Storytimes
Performance Space (Ground Floor)
Start times: 12.30pm, 1.30pm
Bessie’s Bees (Storytime)
Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)
Start time: 12pm
Wonderland family gig: Yemi Bolatiwa and her band
Performance Space (Ground Floor)
3-4pm
Face painting, crafts and carrot trail: THROUGHOUT THE AFTERNOON!
Why not dress up for the occasion? Costumes encouraged – whether you’re a mischievous Cheshire Cat or a dapper White Rabbit!
Bring your sense of wonder, a big smile, and your whole crew for a family-friendly adventure that’s sure to be madly memorable!
FREE ENTRY! JUST DROP IN

An evening with Katherine Rundell
2025-09-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Performance Space
We are delighted to welcome bestselling author Katherine Rundell to Manchester to celebrate the release of The Poisoned King!
The mesmerising follow-up to Rundell’s Waterstones Book of the Year 2023-winning Impossible Creatures finds Christopher embroiled in an elaborate rescue mission as he returns to the magical world of the Archipelago.
Katherine joins us at Manchester Central Library for a talk, audience Q&A and signing. Please note that Katherine will sign all books bought from Waterstones on the day of the event, but due to time restraints and to make sure that all readers have a chance to get their book signed, Katherine will only be able to sign one book brought from home
About The Poisoned King
The dragons call out, and the ratatoskas tell of murder.
Come with us now. There is justice to be done.

Return to the Archipelago – the secret place in our world where all the creatures of myth still live and thrive, for a rescue mission like no other. The Poisoned King is the second book in the epic Impossible Creatures fantasy series from bestselling author Katherine Rundell.
When Christopher Forrester is unexpectedly woken by a miniature dragon chewing on his face, his heart leaps for joy. For months he’s dreamed of returning to the Archipelago. But he did not know it would involve a rescue mission on the back of a sphinx, or a plan to enter a dragon’s lair. Nor did he imagine it would involve a girl with a flock of birds at her side, a new-hatched chick in her pocket and a ravenous hunger for justice…
About the author
KATHERINE RUNDELL is a multi-million-bestselling author whose novels for children have won the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize, the Blue Peter Book Award and the Costa Children’s Book Award, among many others. Impossible Creatures was Waterstones Book of the Year 2023, and in 2024 Katherine was named the British Book Awards Author of the Year and Impossible Creatures won the Children’s Fiction Book of the Year. She is a Quondam Fellow of All Souls College and a Fellow of St Catherine’s College, Oxford, where she works on Renaissance literature. Her books for adults include Super-Infinite, winner of the Baillie Gifford Prize. Very occasionally she goes climbing across the rooftops of Oxford, late at night.

This, That, What? Storytime with Katy Ashworth
2025-10-18 08:00 - 17:00 | Performance Space
Meet Kiki – her brain is full of brilliant ideas that just won’t stop! Katy from CBBC reads her joyful rhyming story and uses playful activities to help children explore big feelings and wild imaginations. Great for ages 4 – 7, but everyone’s welcome!
Free – book advised. Book tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below

Pia’s Pet Party! with Serena Patel & Wild Science Animal Encounter
2025-10-18 08:00 - 17:00 | Performance Space
Join Serena Patel for a party full of animal fun, stories, a pet quiz and even make your own pet character. Then meet amazing real-life animals in a Wild Science show – maybe even a giant spider! Best for ages 5+.
Presented by Manchester Literature Festival and supported by Library Live.
Book tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below

Supertato Party! with Sue Hendra
2025-10-18 10:30 - 11:30 | Performance Space
Come party with Supertato, Katy Ashworth, Pia’s Pet Party & Wild Science Animal Encounter. Plus make a party badge and Party Animal mask with Hya Arts!
There’s a birthday bash at the supermarket, and you’re invited! Join Supertato creator Sue Hendra for silly stories, veggie fun and make your very own veggie superhero to take home. Perfect for ages 3–5 (older siblings welcome!)
Book tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below

Make Cress Heads for Green Libraries Week!
2025-10-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Come and celebrate Green Libraries Week with us at Central Library. Pick up free seeds from our seed library and get creative making your very own cress head to take home. A perfect blend of gardening and crafting! Suitable for families.

Free – just drop in
Please consider making a donation if you can online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

October Half Term at Central Library!
2025-10-28 08:00 - 2025-10-31 17:00
Looking for something to do over the half term holidays? Check out our half term activity programme coming soon, including arts and crafts, with plenty to see, make and do! . All materials provided, just bring your imagination! Here’s what to expect:
Make Cress Heads for Green Libraries Week: Monday 27 October, 2-3pm, Lower Ground Floor
Come and celebrate green libraries week with us at Central Library! Pick up free seeds from our seed library and get creative making your very own cress head to take home. A perfect blend of gardening and crafting! Free entry, just drop in.
Stories and songs for Green Libraries Week: Tuesday 28 October, 2-2.45pm, 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 under 4. Free entry, just turn up.

Lego Club: Wednesday 29 Oct, 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! No need to book in advance. First come first served. Suitable for ages 4 and above. Free entry, just drop in.
Get planting for Green Libraries Week!: Thursday 30 October, 2-4pm, Lower Ground Floor
Calling all budding gardeners (pun intended)! Join us for this engaging session inspired by Green Libraries Week. You’ll get to plant your very own daffodil and take it home with you! We’ll provide all the materials, just come ready to get potting! Suitable for families. Free entry, just drop in.
Spooky Library: Friday 31 October, 1-4pm, Performance Space
We’re getting ready to welcome little spooks and ghouls to a very creepy Central Library for a fun-filled family Halloween. Are you brave enough to enter the world of creepy crafts, torturous treats and sinister surprises? FREE ENTRY. Suitable for children aged 7-13. Fancy dress encouraged! More info at Spooky Library – Library Live
Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead); Saturday 1 November, 1-4pm, 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 and craft workshops, and a typical Mexican altar. Free drop-in, suitable for all ages!

Stories and songs for Green Libraries Week!
2025-10-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Calling all little groovers! Show us some moves at this fun and interactive music and dance session in the music library on the first floor of Central Library. We’ll bring the music, so get ready to hit the dancefloor! Suitable for children under 4.
Free – just drop in
Please consider making a donation if you can online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Spooky Library
2025-10-31 13:00 - 16:00 | Ground Floor
We’re getting ready to welcome little spooks and ghouls to a very creepy Central Library for a fun-filled family Halloween. Are you brave enough to enter the world of creepy crafts, torturous treats and sinister surprises? Read on, if you dare!
Face painting
Throughout the afternoon, 1-4pm – just drop in. £2 per person.
Ground Floor, near café
Does your Halloween look need a final touch of spookiness? Transform into your favourite sinister creature with the help of our fabulous face painters! An absolute must for Central Library’s family activities! £2 per face. Please pay at the till in our gift shop before joining the queue.
Ghastly Crafts
Throughout the afternoon, 1-4pm – just drop in
Ground Floor, outside Performance Space
Are you ready for crafts that will send a little shiver down your spine? Learn to make ghost puppets in this hands-on and interactive art session! Want to know the best part? Suitable for families.
Retro Escape Room
Throughout the afternoon, 1-4pm – just drop in (please note, we may start a queueing system during busy times)
Ground Floor, Performance Space 1
We ain’t afraid of no ghost. And you?
A terrible monster from another dimension is threatening our world, and we need your help! Put your brain to the test with spooky riddles, crack some vintage games and solve our escape room puzzle! Suitable for children aged 7-13.
Spooky Disco
Ground Floor, Performance Space 2-3
Throughout the afternoon, 1-4pm – just drop in
Get ready to do the monster mash in our performance space! Turn up in your favourite costume, show us your best dance moves, and we’ll take care of the music! Suitable for children aged 7–13. Fancy dress encouraged!
Spooky Storytime
Children’s Library (Lower Ground Floor)
2-3pm
Join Helen and Zoe for a spooky story time, with spooky, but not too scary stories such as Room on the Broom, Wake up Do Lydia Doo and more.
Is it all a bit too exciting? Why not relax in our children’s library on the Lower Ground Floor? We’ll have a selection of spooky reads available on the shelves for you.
Suitable for families.
FREE ENTRY (face painting: £2 per person). No booking required – just drop in!
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Spooky Storytime
2025-10-31 14:00 - 15:00 | Children’s Library
Join Helen and Zoe for a spooky story time, with spooky, but not too scary stories such as Room on the Broom, Wake up Do Lydia Doo and more.
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration
2025-11-01 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Join us for a vibrant celebration of life, love, and remembrance! 🌟 We’re thrilled to bring you Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a unique and special ancient Mexican tradition that’s all about honouring our loved ones who’ve passed on. 🌿💀🇲🇽
In Mexican culture, it’s believed that during this time of year, our beloved ancestors come back to visit, and families gather to welcome them with open arms. 🎉 We’ll be cooking up their favourite dishes, dancing to lively music, and sharing stories that keep their memories alive. 💃💀🌼
*Experience the Magic:*
– *Traditional Dances:* Colibri Mexican Folkdance UK will mesmerize you with their energetic performances
– *Day of the Dead Activities:* Join in the fun with themed crafts, workshops, and games
– *Mexican Altar Display:* Marvel at the stunning altar, lovingly crafted to welcome our ancestors back home. The display will be on from the Thursday the 23rd Oct until Saturday the 8th of November.
📖1 pm Story time “ MI FAMILIA:
Celebrating the Day of the Dead” in collaboration with Instituto Cervantes of Manchester.
🪅1:30 Piñata ( children from 0 to 7 years old).
🎨1:30 to 2:45 Crafts and traditional face painting.
💃🏻3 pm Performance of Colibrí Mexican Folkdance UK
*All Are Welcome:* This free drop-in event is suitable for all ages, so bring your family and friends along! 🌟 Let’s come together to celebrate the cycle of life and the love that never fades. 🙏🧡💛🧡
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 Extravaganza!
2025-12-14 12:00 - 16:00 | 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

Little Movers and Shakers
2026-04-07 11:00 - 11:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
Calling all little groovers! Enjoy a fun, high-energy session filled with music and dance. Get ready to show off some moves – we’ll bring the tunes! Most suitable for under 4s.
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

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.
