• ‘Live Forever’ – A Day of Oasis Music – Live!

    "Oasis Week" at Central Library will conclude with ‘Live Forever’ – a day of special Oasis-themed live sessions on Saturday 19th July.  The day will begin with a little Morning Glory from the MANCHESTER STRING QUARTET performing classical renditions of Oasis hits in the Central Library Entrance (11am-12pm). Then an early afternoon performance in the Henry Watson […]

  • Leo HC Single Launch

    Henry Watson Music Library

    Leo HC is a 20 year old solo musician, creating alternative folk tracks to soothe the soul. Equipped, usually, with an acoustic guitar, his voice and lots of reverb, his music creates an introspective and melancholic atmosphere for all to listen and enjoy. His debut album was released on 8 November 2024. Leo is currently […]

  • Ear Soup – Acoustic Food for the Soul

    Henry Watson Music Library

    Join us in the Henry Watson Music Library for one hour of musical magic. 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

  • Macdara Yeates and Jennifer Reid

    Henry Watson Music Library

    Join us for a special performance featuring Macdara Yeates and Jennifer Reid trading ballads and broadsides on related topics to illustrate the shared cultures of Dublin and Manchester and the song traditions that would have been active in the two cities in the industrial revolution. Macdara Yeates is an Irish folk singer. Born and raised […]

  • Cole Stacey – Live

    Performance Space

    Cole Stacey performs his debut album live in the magnificent Manchester Central Library, part of a series of 5 concerts in truly remarkable places. Immerse yourself in this remarkable space in the heart of Manchester, for one of five unique concerts with Cole Stacey as he presents his critically acclaimed debut album Postcards From Lost […]

  • Christmas Singalong

    Henry Watson Music Library

    Ho Ho Ho!  Come and join the New Horizons Choir for some Christmassy songs, a mince pie and some festive cheer.  The choir will be singing in the Henry Watson Music Library on 17 December at 5.15 pm.  All welcome to be serenaded by the singers and to join in with all your favourite Christmas tunes.  […]

  • VR Headset Experiences

    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 […]

  • Author Q&A: Solid Bond in Your Heart – A People’s History of The Jam

    Henry Watson Music Library

    'Solid Bond In Your Heart: A People’s History of The Jam' is a new book by acclaimed author and journalist Malcolm Wyatt. Published in 2025 by Manchester-based Spenwood Books, it tells the tale of one the most iconic and inspirational bands of all time: The Jam. Exploding on to the British music scene with their […]

  • Didsbury Singers: International Women’s Day Concert

    Henry Watson Music Library

    In celebration of International Women’s Day, Didsbury Singers will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library for a celebration of choral music. Didsbury Singers are a local, aspirational upper voices choir from South Manchester. Conducted by the award winning Hannah Brine and with musical accompaniment by Isaac Horton, the group will be honouring International […]