Urmston, Flixton and Davyhulme: A Postcard Heritage
2023-07-19 13:00 - 17:00 UTC | Performance Space
Postcard collecting is still a popular hobby or a means of finding out more about a locality, but it is probably rare, these days, to receive a postcard through the post. Indeed, we could argue that postcard-news would be old news by time we received it, these days. However, many of us might have noticed postcards amongst house clearances, and they are just as likely to say ‘see you tomorrow’ as ‘wish you were here’. Some of us might remember when postcard postage was less than letter postage. Speaker, Michael Billington, seems to have a hoard postcards, so join us on this Wednesday afterrnon to hear all about them.

Crime Central
2023-07-27 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets for this event are on a “pay what you can” basis.They range from £2 – £8 plus the Eventbrite booking fee.
All tickets allow the same access to the event. This is a just a pricing system to accommodate for individual financial circumstances.
Signed books will be available to purchase after the event.

Elizabeth Raffald - England's Most Influential Housekeeper
2023-09-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
Manchester-based historian Neil Buttery presents a talk about the rise & fall of one of Britain’s most influential cookery writers, Elizabeth Raffald.
Join historian Neil to explore the life, times and legend of the great Elizabeth Raffald of Manchester. Elizabeth was once a household name, and her list of accomplishments would make even the highest of achievers feel suddenly impotent. After becoming the housekeeper at Arley Hall in Cheshire at age twenty-five, she married and moved to Manchester, transforming the Manchester food scene and business community, writing the first A to Z directory and creating the first domestic servant’s registry office, the first temping agency if you will. Not only that, she set up a cookery school and ran a high-class tavern attracting both gentry and nobility. She reputedly gave birth to sixteen daughters, wrote a book on midwifery and was an effective exorciser of evil spirits.
These achievements gave her notoriety and standing in Manchester, but they all pale in comparison to her biggest achievement; her cookery book The Experienced English Housekeeper. Published in 1769, it ran to over twenty editions and brought her fame and fortune. But her great rise was followed by a tumultuous fall, dying at the age of 46. Her book, however, lived on. Influential and often imitated (but never bettered), it became the must-have volume for any kitchen, shaping our modern food culture.
Alongside the talk, there will be an opportunity to view some of the library’s Elizabeth Raffald archive, including that famous book of hers.
Free – booking required

Crime Central
2023-09-28 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
As the nights get darker, Crime Central returns with three amazing authors and three new books to chill your bones. Rob Parker welcomes Fiona Erskine, Luca Veste and Neil Broadfoot to Central Library!

Fiona Erskine
Engineer by day, writer by night.
Fiona was born in Edinburgh, and grew up playing guitar, riding motorbikes and jumping into cold water. After studying Chemical Engineering at University she learned to weld, cast and machine with apprentices in Paisley before working internationally as a professional engineer. She is now based in the north east of England.
Her latest novel, Phosphate Rocks: A Death in Ten Objects is published by Sandstone Press in June 2021.
Fiona’s debut novel, The Chemical Detective (2019), was shortlisted for the Specsavers Debut Crime Novel Award. Her second thriller in the Jaq Silver series, The Chemical Reaction (2020), was shortlisted for the Staunch Prize.

Luca Veste
Luca Veste is a writer of Italian and Liverpudlian heritage, married with two young daughters, and one of nine children. He studied psychology and criminology at university in Liverpool. He is the author of the Murphy and Rossi series, which includes DEAD GONE, THE DYING PLACE, BLOODSTREAM, and THEN SHE WAS GONE.
Part psychological thriller, part police procedural, his books follow the detective pairing of DI David Murphy and DS Laura Rossi. The novels are set in Liverpool, bringing the city to life in a dark and terrifying manner…with just a splash of Scouse humour.
“Astringent and artfully constructed.” The Financial Times
“A darkly impressive novel… disturbing and intelligent.” The Times
“A chilling début from a writer to watch…” Mark Billingham
“Gripping, unpredictable, genuinely shocking and impossible to put down, Dead Gone is a remarkable début.” Steve Mosby
“A twisty, psychological crime debut in a gritty setting: a new favourite for police procedural lovers” Clare Mackintosh
“Tense and darkly playful.” Chris Ewan
He is a former civil servant, actor, singer and guitarist (although he still picks it up now and again), and now a full-time writer.

Neil Broadfoot
“Neil should be better known and more widely read. A true rising star of crime fiction.”
– Ian Rankin
Neil Broadfoot worked as a journalist for 15 years at both national and local newspapers, including The Scotsman, Scotland on Sunday and the Evening News, covering some of the biggest stories of the day.
Falling Fast, which was shortlisted for the Dundee International Book Prize, is the first in the Edinburgh-set McGregor and Drummond series of thrillers.
His Stirling-set series, which begins with No Man’s Land and features close protection expert Connor Fraser, has been hailed as “tense, fast moving and bloody” and “atmospheric, twisty and explosive” with a “complex cast of characters and a compelling hero”. No Man’s Land was longlisted for the 2019 McIlvanney Award.

Behind The Scenes Tours at Manchester Central Library
2023-10-26 18:00 - 2023-11-23 19:30
What do George V, Gypsy Rose Lee and Bernard Bresslaw have in common?
Which musician was once thrown out of the Language and Literature Library?
What would you find now in the space where Patrick Stewart and Helen Mirren – amongst many others – played their first roles?
All these questions – and many more – are answered on a tour of Manchester Central Library which will take you to all the areas not normally accessible to the general public and tell the story of this iconic building. Tours last around 90 minutes and include the chance to see some of our rarest treasures and archives.
The dates for the next tours are –
Thursday 26th October 2023
Thursday 23rd November 2023
Places are strictly limited so please book early.
Please meet in the main entrance (Shakespeare Hall) of Central Library from 5.45pm. The tour starts at 6pm.

How Manchester Made Shakespeare Modern – Rosa Grindon, the Suffragist Shakespearean Scholar
2023-11-08 18:00 - 19:00
With Dr. Monika Smialkowska and Dr. Ian Nickson.
Never previously recounted, Dr. Monika Smialkowska and Dr. Ian Nickson chart Rosa Grindon’s journey from modest beginnings in a Derbyshire village to becoming a leading figure in literary and theatrical circles in Manchester, a ground-breaking Shakespearean scholar and, as a Suffragist, an outspoken champion of women’s rights. For example, her response to women being forbidden membership of many of the city’s societies, was to resurrect Lydia Becker’s Manchester Ladies Literary Society to which she invited the leading Shakespearean actors Henry Irving and Ellen Terry to speak.
Grindon was a bold and innovative scholar who challenged the largely male-dominated interpretations of female figures in Shakespeare’s plays and pioneered theatrical outreach by delivering lectures in association with Richard Flanagan’s Shakespearean revivals at the Prince’s Theatre. Such was her standing that she was the first woman to be invited to speak at the Shakespeare Festival in Stratford-in-Avon.
After the First World War, she led the preparations for Manchester’s Shakespeare Tercentenary Celebrations in 1916 and funded the Shakespeare Window in the Central Library via a bequest in her Will.

Conserving Our Town Hall's heritage: Pulling out all the stops – restoring the Town Hall organ
2023-11-16 13:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
AFTERNOON SESSION 1PM
EVENING SESSION 5.30PM
Manchester Town Hall has been closed since January 2018 for an extensive restoration programme that will repair and upgrade the building to modern standards. The work will include the conservation of many heritage features. Our series of Heritage Lectures aims to shine a light on some of the fascinating work that’s been going on behind the scenes.
We’ve already heard about the work on our paintings, mosaic flooring, clock and stained-glass windows; now it’s time to turn our attention to the restoration of the magnificent organ in the Great Hall.
As an important part of the Our Town Hall project, the organ will be restored as its builder (Cavaillé-Coll) originally intended. The work will be undertaken jointly, by Nicholson & Co of Malvern, and Flentrop Orgelbouw, of the Netherlands.
Andrew Caskie, Managing Director of Nicholson & Co, will deliver this lecture.
Join us in Central Library for a chance to hear direct from the organ building firms involved and find out just what it’s like to bring 21st century conservation skills to the Our Town Hall Project. The lecture is free to attend but please book your place.

Mika Karhumaa: Unlocking the Secrets of Modern Music Business Management
2023-11-18 14:00 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Unlocking the Secrets of Modern Music Business Management
Join us for an engaging exploration of the cutting-edge strategies and principles that drive success in the contemporary music industry.Overview:In this dynamic lecture, we delve into the fascinating world of modern music business management. Discover the innovative concepts and techniques that are reshaping the music industry and learn how they can be applied to elevate your career or business to new heights.Key Topics:The Three-Pillar Approach: Explore the transformative power of the three pillars: Modern Music Business Management Framework, Passive Promotion Mechanism, and Story Rooting and Strategic Planting.Real-World Case Studies: Dive into real-life examples and success stories from the music industry, showcasing the practical application of our strategies.Global Perspectives: Gain insights into international best practices and global trends that are shaping the music business landscape.Q&A Session: Engage with our expert speaker in a lively Q&A session, where you can seek personalized advice and clarification on music business topics.Why Attend:Cutting-Edge Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with the latest strategies and tactics driving success in the music industry.Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow music enthusiasts and professionals in a collaborative environment.Practical Takeaways: Leave with actionable insights and ideas to implement immediately.
Material:
The lectures are based on Mika Karhumaa’s The Art of Music Business Management – For Artists & Managers book
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

Crime Central with Louise Swanson, Jose Carlos Somoza & Simon Michael!
2023-11-23 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
Manchester Libraries, Blackwells Books and Instituto Cevantes present
A Cracking Crime Central Christmas Special!!
Rob Parker welcomes Louise Swanson, Simon Michael and Jose Carlos Somoza!
Bringing the best from all over!
Featuring the best and brightest crime writing talent both locally and from around the country – the big names are all coming to Manchester!
Go behind the scenes!
Showcasing blockbuster bestsellers, emerging talent and industry insiders, Crime Central will share the real story of what goes on in the crime world.
Meet your favourite authors!
With giveaways, audience interaction, book signings, the chance to ask questions and more – while bringing a crime fiction buzz back to this great northern city.
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets for this event are on a “pay what you can” basis.They range from £2 – £8 plus the Eventbrite booking fee.
All tickets allow the same access to the event. This is a just a pricing system to accommodate for individual financial circumstances.
Signed books will be available to purchase after the event.

A Monumental Effort: Restoring the Albert Memorial Afternoon Lecture
2024-05-23 08:00 - 17:00 | Performance Space
Manchester Town Hall has been closed since January 2018 for an extensive restoration programme that will repair and upgrade the building to modern standards. The work will include the conservation of many heritage features.
Our series of Heritage Lectures aims to shine a light on some of the fascinating work that’s been going on behind the scenes. We’ve already heard about the work on our paintings, mosaic flooring, clock, stained-glass windows, organ and furniture. Now it’s time to turn our attention outside of the building to the iconic Albert Memorial in Albert Square.
Strictly speaking, the memorial is quite separate. It was built and completed well before the Town Hall, predating it by a decade. But the Our Town Hall Project encompasses the public realm too, and the decision was made – very early in the project – to include the Albert Memorial as part of it.
The first monument to commemorate Prince Albert, the Albert Memorial is an elaborate Gothic enclosure, protecting a marble statue of the Prince. The high levels of decoration on the 73’ high memorial represent his interests. There are portraits of famous men and the coats of arms of his dominions in Saxony. The memorial was created by Matthew Noble and completed in 1866.
Join us in Central Library for a chance to hear from our lead Architect, Jamie Coath from Purcell, and Steve Eccleshre from Bullen Conservation, the stonemasons currently working on the memorial’s restoration and repair.
The free lecture starts at 1pm and is repeated at 5.30pm Please book your place for either by clicking the links below:

1pm lecture. Doors open 12.30pm for a 1pm start (ends 2.15pm)
5.30pm lecture. Doors open 5pm for a 5.30 pm start (ends 6.45pm)

Slate Expectations - Restoring Our Town Hall's roof. Afternoon Lecture.
2024-09-26 13:00 - 14:15 | Performance Space
Slate Expectations – Restoring Our Town Hall’s roof
Our Heritage Lectures shine a light on the work behind the scenes of the Our Town Hall Project. One of the most complicated elements of the entire building is the roof. Seen from above we get a better perspective of the scale and complexity of it. With 34 huge chimneys, plus towers, turrets and decorative elements, it has thrown up some real surprises and challenges.
This lecture will be given by Gareth Richings from Purcell, the project’s heritage architecture specialists. He’ll give us a detailed description of the roof’s original structure, discoveries that were made, how they approached the unknown elements and resulting surprises, and the progress and successes that are now being made.
One of the big things they are doing is making alterations to improve access. This will make the roof easier and safer to maintain in the future; an important contribution to the building’s sustainability and longevity.
Thursday 26 September 2024, The Performance Space, Central Library
Please book the afternoon or evening lecture.
12.45pm arrival for a 1pm start (ends 2.15pm)
The lecture is free but you’ll need to book your ticket online here.

Slate Expectations – Restoring Our Town Hall’s roof. Evening Lecture.
2024-09-26 17:30 - 18:45 | Performance Space
Slate Expectations – Restoring Our Town Hall’s roof

Our Heritage Lectures shine a light on the work behind the scenes of the Our Town Hall Project. One of the most complicated elements of the entire building is the roof. Seen from above we get a better perspective of the scale and complexity of it. With 34 huge chimneys, plus towers, turrets and decorative elements, it has thrown up some real surprises and challenges.
This lecture will be given by Gareth Richings from Purcell, the project’s heritage architecture specialists. He’ll give us a detailed description of the roof’s original structure, discoveries that were made, how they approached the unknown elements and resulting surprises, and the progress and successes that are now being made.
One of the big things they are doing is making alterations to improve access. This will make the roof easier and safer to maintain in the future; an important contribution to the building’s sustainability and longevity.
Thursday 26 September 2024, The Performance Space, Central Library
5.15pm arrival for a 5.30pm start (ends 6.45pm)
The lecture is free but you’ll need to book your ticket online here.

Migration, Identity and History - Talk
2024-10-16 17:30 - 19:00 | Lwr Ground Floor – Manchester Histories Hub
To what extent through history has British identity been influenced by migration? An event with speakers, short film screening and discussion.
Speakers from the Migration Stories North West project will explore the nature of migrant identity throughout British history and the intersections between the history of migration and issues at the forefront of Black history. There will be an opportunity for open discussion about various perspectives, including questions such as:
· Why are stories of individuals so important for retelling and understanding history?
· What is the social and cultural potential for understanding our history through the lens of migration?
· How did colonialism affect migration?
· Are the migratory roots of various historical figures often overlooked or kept hidden?
· What do the stories from the project tell us about migration and human rights?
Contributing speakers for Migration, Identity and History
Kooj Chuhan of Crossing Footprints will be chairing the Migration, Identity and History event, and there will be a number of contributing speakers including:
Louise Wong is a community development worker at Wai Yin Society and has been serving the Chinese community for decades. She presents the “Dragons Voice” program on Radio AllFM for the Chinese community. Louise co-produced “Crossing the Borders” Chinese oral history project archived at Ahmed Iqbal Ullah Resource Centre which received the Alan Ball Award. She was one of the volunteer researchers for the Migration Stories North West project, researching and producing the story of Jou Lim along with fellow researcher Yichao Shi.
is a Community Development Worker at the Wai Yin Chinese Community Centre in Manchester, and is also a presenter for the The Dragons Voice Radio show on All FM community radio. She was one of the team of volunteer researchers for the Migration Stories North West project in Greater Manchester, researching and producing the story of Jou Lim along with fellow researcher Yichao Shi.
Washington Alcott is a local researcher and teacher specialising in African and Caribbean perspectives. His work includes economic and social history, migration, environment, cultural identities, Pan Africanism and has been an active member of many progressive community and activist groups for decades. He recently contributed to the Guardian’s ‘Cotton Capital’ series.
Washington has been following the Migration Stories North West project in Greater Manchester since it began.
Alison Fisher has worked as a teacher of English as an Additional Language in Bury since 1995. Recently she has worked for Fair Futures developing projects both in schools and in their building in the centre of Bury. Fair Futures are a Community Interest Company working with children, young people and families to promote successful learning and reduce barriers to education. Alison co-delivered workshops at The Derby High School for the Migration Stories North West project in Manchester.
Migration, Identity and History is an event by Crossing Footprints presented within the context of Black History Month, in partnership with Manchester Histories. A part of the Migration Stories Exhibition on show at Manchester Central Library from 3 October.
Free – please drop in

Crime Central Halloween Special!
2024-10-31 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
Rob Parker and Manchester Libraries invite you to a CRIME CENTRAL SPOOKTACULAR!!
With Jo Callaghan, Graeme Cumming and Steve Kedie!
Bringing the best from all over!
Featuring the best and brightest crime writing talent both locally and from around the country – the big names are all coming to Manchester!
Go behind the scenes!
Showcasing blockbuster bestsellers, emerging talent and industry insiders, Crime Central will share the real story of what goes on in the crime world.
Meet your favourite authors!
With giveaways, audience interaction, book signings, the chance to ask questions and more – while bringing a crime fiction buzz back to this great northern city

AFTERNOON LECTURE: Space Exploration – how we’re transforming Albert Square
2024-11-21 13:00 - 14:15 | Performance Space
AFTERNOON LECTURE

Our Heritage Lectures shine a light on the work behind the scenes of the Our Town Hall Project.
One of the most obvious parts of the project will be the improvements to Albert Square. As well as pedestrianising almost all of it (just one section of road will remain, for the Metrolink tramlines) to create a 20% larger space, the work includes making all of the Town Hall’s entrances and exits accessible.
Prior to 2018, when we closed the building, only one of the many access points was available to anyone with reduced mobility.This lecture will be given jointly by Kevin Redhead and Matt Stirton from Planit, the project’s landscape architecture and urban design specialists, who are responsible for the work within the Town Hall’s public realm.

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EVENING LECTURE: Space Exploration – how we’re transforming Albert Square
2024-11-21 17:30 - 18:45 | Performance Space
EVENING LECTURE
Our Heritage Lectures shine a light on the work behind the scenes of the Our Town Hall Project.
One of the most obvious parts of the project will be the improvements to Albert Square. As well as pedestrianising almost all of it (just one section of road will remain, for the Metrolink tramlines) to create a 20% larger space, the work includes making all of the Town Hall’s entrances and exits accessible.
Prior to 2018, when we closed the building, only one of the many access points was available to anyone with reduced mobility.This lecture will be given jointly by Kevin Redhead and Matt Stirton from Planit, the project’s landscape architecture and urban design specialists, who are responsible for the work within the Town Hall’s public realm.

Behind the Scenes Tour of Central Library
2024-11-21 18:00 - 19:30 | Entrance Hall
Which musician was once thrown out of the Language and Literature Library?
What would you find now in the space where Patrick Stewart and Helen Mirren – amongst many others – played their first roles?
All these questions – and many more – are answered on a tour of Manchester Central Library which will take you to all the areas not normally accessible to the general public and tell the story of this iconic building. Tours last around 90 minutes and include the chance to see some of our rarest treasures and archives.
Places are strictly limited so please book early.
Please meet in the main entrance (Shakespeare Hall) of Central Library from 5.45pm. The tour starts at 6pm
Book tickets below

Sam Johnson Memorial Lecture 2024 with Jane Rosen
2024-12-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Lwr Ground Floor – Manchester Histories Hub
Sam Johnson Memorial Lecture 2024 with Jane Rosen: The Co-operators, the Peacemakers, and the Enigmas: Women in the SCR
Manchester Histories and Manchester Metropolitan University are delighted to host the Sam Johnson Memorial Lecture 2024 with Jane Rosen.
Discover the important roles women played in the foundation of the Society for Cultural Relations (SCR) with the USSR.
Jane Rosen is a Librarian and has worked in a number of specialist historical and cultural libraries including the Society for Co-operation in Russian and Soviet Studies and the Marx Memorial Library. Her latest publication is a centenary history of the Society for Co-operation in Russian and Soviet Studies.
Free – booking required via this Eventbrite link or clicking the ‘book now’ button underneath ‘related events’ below

A History of Pies and Puddings
2024-12-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Performance Space
Explore the history of some our most beloved British foods with local food historian Neil Buttery: pies and puddings, from their rather posh origins to the present day, where they are beloved by all (and treated with suspicion by some). Both have a fascinating and rather convoluted history, and Neil will talk you through the rather surprising paths they have meandered through the centuries.
Neil will also present some of his research on regional foods: Manchester pudding, Yorkshire pudding haggis and Cornish pasties (expect a bombshell!) as well as some foods which were eaten all year round but are associated with Christmas today, including plum pudding and mince pies.

Tickets are free and available to book below.

Illuminating our heritage – Afternoon Lecture
2025-02-20 13:00 - 14:15 | Performance Space
AFTERNOON LECTURE
Manchester Town Hall has been closed since January 2018 for an extensive restoration programme that will repair and upgrade the building to modern standards.
The work will include the conservation of many of its original heritage features. Our series of Heritage Lectures aims to shine a light on some of the fascinating work that’s been going on behind the scenes.
We’ve already heard about the work on our paintings, mosaic flooring, clock, stained-glass windows, organ, furniture, the Albert Memorial and Albert Square. Now it’s time to turn our attention to some of the highly ornate original lighting.
Join us in Central Library for a chance to hear from Lauren Crossley of Arup. The lecture is free to attend but please book your place.
Illuminating our heritage – restoring Waterhouse’s lighting design
Illuminating the interiors of the Town Hall would have been a real challenge for Waterhouse, but he designed some fabulously ornate lanterns, lamps and lights – all in line with his overall vision and attention to detail. In this lecture we’ll hear about the intensive restoration of the original chandeliers and other light fittings throughout the building.
The task to bring them in line with modern technology – while preserving their heritage significance – has been achieved with a high degree of creativity and many respectful nods to the craftsmen that originally made them.
Lauren Crossley from Arup will present this lecture, in which she’ll also talk about her research on the historical installations and interventions over the decades.
Thursday 20 February 2025, The Performance Space, Central Library
Afternoon Lecture: 12.30pm arrival for a 1pm start (ends 2.15pm)
The lecture is free but you’ll need to book your ticket below.

Illuminating our heritage – Evening Lecture
2025-02-20 17:30 - 18:45
EVENING LECTURE
Manchester Town Hall has been closed since January 2018 for an extensive restoration programme that will repair and upgrade the building to modern standards.
The work will include the conservation of many of its original heritage features. Our series of Heritage Lectures aims to shine a light on some of the fascinating work that’s been going on behind the scenes.
We’ve already heard about the work on our paintings, mosaic flooring, clock, stained-glass windows, organ, furniture, the Albert Memorial and Albert Square. Now it’s time to turn our attention to some of the highly ornate original lighting.
Join us in Central Library for a chance to hear from Lauren Crossley of Arup. The lecture is free to attend but please book your place.
Illuminating our heritage – restoring Waterhouse’s lighting design
Illuminating the interiors of the Town Hall would have been a real challenge for Waterhouse, but he designed some fabulously ornate lanterns, lamps and lights – all in line with his overall vision and attention to detail. In this lecture we’ll hear about the intensive restoration of the original chandeliers and other light fittings throughout the building.
The task to bring them in line with modern technology – while preserving their heritage significance – has been achieved with a high degree of creativity and many respectful nods to the craftsmen that originally made them.
Lauren Crossley from Arup will present this lecture, in which she’ll also talk about her research on the historical installations and interventions over the decades.
Thursday 20 February 2025, The Performance Space, Central Library
Evening Lecture: 5.00pm arrival for a 5.30pm start (ends 6.45pm)
The lecture is free but you’ll need to book your ticket below.

Women's Community Festival 2025
2025-03-08 11:00 - 14:00 | Performance Space
International Women’s Day (IWD) is returning to Manchester as a celebration of women’s empowerment, equality and contributions to the city at Manchester Central Library on Saturday 8 March.
Led and inspired by an already significant history of pioneering women, IWD 2025 is a chance for women across all generations and dedicated allies to come together in advancing women’s rights in Manchester and around the world.
The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Accelerate Action’, which calls on supporters of gender equality to act against systemic barriers women from all backgrounds face in their personal and professional environments.
In recent years, Manchester City Council has marked IWD with a dedicated ‘Walk for Women’ event. This year, however, the Council has joined forces with a diverse range of women-led community organisations to co-design a different approach.
Funding was made available for community organisations to host IWD events across the city through the annual IWD grants programme. A celebratory community-led programme of workshops, performances and discussions has also been planned for the day itself at Manchester Central Library based around the acronym HER: Heal Encourage, Revive.
The events for IWD 2025 are:
Heal – Performance Space
·  Flourish Together; Mindfulness Activity for relaxation and meditation, 11am-1pm
·  Equal Education Chances; letter writing and positive affirmations session, 11:20am-12:15pm
Encouraged – Performance Space 2 and 3
·    Community Thriving Together; sharing personal stories and overcoming challenges, 11am-11:50am
·   Trailblazers; Creating bookmarks and stitching
·   Young Identity with Shirley May; poetry performance by Young Identity members, 11:55am-12:15pm
·   Flourish Together; a 30-minute fireside chat chaired by Nickala Torkington about women changemakers, 12:20pm-12:50pm.
Revived – Performance Space 2 and 3
·     Bollyfit; an exercise class inspired by multicultural dance, 1pm-1:30pm
·     Councillor Ermina Bell will give a closing speech about the event, 1:35pm-1:45pm
·      DJ set to inspire and uplift
Glass Room/Sensory Space
·     Flourish Together; Bookable pop-up spa for treatments for 20 mins including Indian Head Massage in a clothed and seated setting, 11am-2pm
The events on the day will be accompanied by partner stalls of specialist community organisations including Manchester Action on Street Health (MASH), Manchester Rape Crisis, Fikawele African and Caribbean Mental Health, Walksafe  and Ahmed Iqbal Ullah (AIU) RACE Centre who will be on hand to raise awareness and promote their services.
Councillor Erinma Bell, Lead Member for Women, said: “Manchester has long been a city that has championed and supported women in the fight for gender equality.
“It’s fantastic to see the range of creativity and innovation in the events this year for International Women’s Day with the aim of accelerating further action for women to thrive personally and professionally. “I would encourage women from all backgrounds and generations to get involved, because there is something for everyone and to advocate for more allies join in on the celebrations and inform our priorities for advancing women’s equality this year.”
For more information or to book your place visit Women’s Community Festival.

Exploring Immigration: A Dialogue on Building Our Shared Future
2025-04-23 18:30 - 19:30 | Performance Space
Overview
Join us for an illuminating evening of honest conversation about one of the most significant forces shaping our society. As Manchester continues to evolve into an increasingly diverse metropolis, we’re bringing together remarkable community leaders to explore how immigration enriches our city while thoughtfully addressing the challenges of creating a truly integrated society.
Tickets are free but booking is essential. To book your ticket, please visit MACFEST’s Eventbrite page below.
Our Distinguished Speakers
Qaisra Shahraz MBE JP FRSA
An acclaimed British-Pakistani novelist and activist, she has dedicated her life to weaving connections between communities. As founder of MACFEST (Manchester’s Muslim Arts and Culture Festival), she creates spaces where different cultures can meet, share stories, and discover their common ground. Her work demonstrates how art and culture can transform understanding between people of all backgrounds.
Erinma Bell MBE DL JP
Brings invaluable perspective as a British-Nigerian community peace activist, councillor, and pioneering leader. Her groundbreaking work in Moss Side and Longsight has shown how strong communities can overcome serious challenges through cooperation and mutual support. As the first woman honoured with a sculpture in Manchester Town Hall / Central Library, her legacy inspires new approaches to building safer, more connected neighbourhoods.
Topics for Discussion
Together, they’ll explore questions that matter to all of us: How do we honour both shared identity and cultural distinctiveness? What role can education play in bringing communities together? How can we support newcomers while strengthening existing community bonds? Drawing from their rich personal and professional experiences, our speakers will share insights into creating a society where everyone can thrive.
Event Chair
Guiding this important conversation will be Darryl Morris, the award-winning broadcaster, filmmaker, and writer known for his thoughtful approach to complex social issues. His skilled facilitation will help us move beyond simplified debates to explore practical paths forward.
Audience Participation
This evening isn’t just about listening – it’s about participating in shaping our future. We warmly invite audience members to share their experiences, questions, and ideas as we work together to envision and build a more connected Manchester.
Join us as we explore how our city’s diversity can become its greatest strength.
Practical Information
Tickets are free but booking is essential. To book your ticket, please visit MACFEST’s Eventbrite page below.
Accessibility Information
Please contact us regarding any specific accessibility requirements you may have by emailing events@manlitphil.ac.uk

The Apple Trees and The Bees
2025-06-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
James Ellson presents The Apple Trees and The Bees – symbiotic relationship between apple trees, honeybees and humans
Join us for an engaging discussion about the relationship between apple trees, honeybees and humans. It is thought that fruit trees and honeybees have co-evolved for millions of years. In this talk former detective now crime writer and smallholder James Ellson explores the beneficial relationships between us and these trees and bees.
James Ellson was a police officer for 15 years, finishing as a Detective Inspector at Moss Side in Manchester. He now wears three hats of crime writer, smallholder and speaker. His debut novel The Trail was published in 2020, and his latest book, Base Line, is the fourth in the DCI Castle series. James lives in the Peak District with his wife, and manages their smallholding, which includes bees and an orchard.
Free entry – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation to support our Library Live programme here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Inspired by Libraries with Shaun Keaveny and Guy Garvey
2025-06-05 20:00 - 21:00 | Performance Space
Manchester City of Literature and Manchester Libraries present this special Festival of Libraries event.
Join us at Manchester Central Library for a special one-off event featuring two of the city’s most distinctive and much-loved voices — Guy Garvey, Mercury Prize–winning frontman of Elbow and presenter of BBC 6 Music’s Guy Garvey’s Finest Hour, and Shaun Keaveny, long-time BBC 6 Music broadcaster and now host of The Rock Show on BBC Radio 2 and Community Garden Radio. In this relaxed and thought-provoking conversation, Guy and Shaun will explore themes of community, creativity, working-class identity, music, memory, radio, and the role that places like libraries play in shaping our cultural lives — all delivered with the humour, warmth and honesty they’re known for.
About Shaun Keaveny
Shaun Keaveny is a much-loved broadcaster whose trademark wit, warmth and deep connection with listeners have made him one of the most distinctive voices on UK radio. He became a familiar presence to millions during his many years on BBC Radio 6 Music, and now fronts The Rock Show on BBC Radio 2. He retired from stand-up comedy due to public demand in 2017, and is also an enthusiastic failed musician. As the founder of the beloved Community Garden Radio, he continues to champion great music and meaningful conversation in his own inimitable style.
About Guy Garvey
With a career in music spanning three decades and a host of roles from renowned lyricist, singer, and producer to radio and TV host and soundtrack composer and producer, Guy Garvey has left an indelible mark on the music world. With his ‘best mates’ in elbow for over 25 years, Guy has created ten studio albums that have delivered critical acclaim, gold and platinum albums, UK Number Ones, a Mercury Music Prize, BRIT Award, NME Award, Mojo Award and three Ivor Novello Awards.
Guy remains a key part of the 6 Music line-up with his ‘Guy Garvey’s Finest Hour’ a mainstay of Sunday afternoons on the station since 2007. Guy’s contribution to UK culture was recognised with the award of honorary degree from Manchester Metropolitan University for his work in the arts, where he is also a visiting professor.

Crime Central
2025-06-25 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
CRIME CENTRAL RETURNS 25 JUNE 2025
With the brilliant Rachel Wolf, H Critchlow and Antony Johnston!
Bringing the best from all over!
Featuring the best and brightest crime writing talent both locally and from around the country – the big names are all coming to Manchester!
Go behind the scenes!
Showcasing blockbuster bestsellers, emerging talent and industry insiders, Crime Central will share the real story of what goes on in the crime world.
Meet your favourite authors!
With giveaways, audience interaction, book signings, the chance to ask questions and more – while bringing a crime fiction buzz back to this great northern city.

Lords and Ladies of Middleton Manor
2025-06-30 17:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
Join us for an evening exploring the fascinating Assheton family of Middleton. Meet a medieval Middleton Bowman and discover everyday life through close-up encounters with original historic documents from the Assheton collection. Free event with refreshments.
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

John Robb: 'Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis' - Oasis Week Q&A
2025-07-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
For those in the mood for a Talk Tonight, on 15th July, expect to find esteemed Northern music journalist and frontman of the Membranes / Goldblade JOHN ROBB in-conversation about his brand new book ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’ at Manchester Central Library.
Part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, John will be appearing in-person for an intimate talk and Q&A with local tour guide and Oasis expert Joe Feeley about the book in the Henry Watson Music Library.
‘Live Forever…’ promises a rollercoaster ride through the Gallagher brothers’ turbulent lives and the music that defined a generation. And John Robb was there every step of the way.
In this, the definitive book on Britain’s biggest band, he peels back the layers of Manchester’s best-known musical export, revealing a tale of ambition, ego, talent and a whole lot of attitude. From the estates of South Manchester to the dizzying heights of global stardom, Live Forever is a rollercoaster ride through the Gallagher brothers’ turbulent lives and the music that defined a generation. But it is also a portrait of Britain around the turn of the millennium and the cultural forces and places that shaped, and were shaped by, two cocksure upstarts from Burnage – from art to fashion, and from football to politics.
Playful, funny and irreverent, and drawing on dozens of interviews and first-hand stories, this book puts Oasis squarely in the pantheon of music royalty as the last great rock ’n’ roll stars.
The Q&A will be chaired by local tour guide Joe Feeley. Alongside his expert tours of Manchester city centre, Joe also leads the legendary Rock And Goal Tour and has recently launched the Wonderwalk Oasis Tour. A musician and guide with real Oasis pedigree, Joe grew up with the Gallaghers, was in school with Liam and Noel, and their families in Ireland also share history. His Wonderwalk tour offers a deep dive into Oasis’s roots and the wider Manchester music scene, and his personal connection to the band means he has insights and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Joe and John will be chatting about ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’ and more at Manchester Central Library on Tuesday 15 July.
Copies will be available at the event courtesy of Blackwells, and John will be available for signings after the event.
Tickets are free, but any donations to the library warmly welcomed.
Tickets available from 10AM on Friday 20 June:
John Robb: ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’ Q&A Tickets, Tue, Jul 15, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

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“Oasis Week” at Central Library is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.
This event is part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, kindly supported by Manchester Libraries Trust.
For more information, and to secure your tickets for some of the limited-capacity events of “Oasis Week” at Central Library head to: librarylive.co.uk

Not just any old iron! Afternoon Lecture
2025-09-23 13:00 - 14:15 | Performance Space
Manchester Town Hall has been closed since January 2018 for an extensive restoration programme that will repair and upgrade the building to modern standards. The work will include the conservation of many of its original heritage features.
Our series of Heritage Lectures aims to shine a light on some of the fascinating work that’s been going on behind the scenes. We’ve already heard about the work on our paintings, mosaic flooring, clock, stained-glass windows, organ, furniture, the Albert Memorial, Albert Square and the original lighting.
Join us in Central Library for a chance to hear from Will Jones and Peter Meehan of Heritage Project Contracts. The lecture is free to attend but please book your place.
In this lecture we’ll be learning about the conservation, preservation and restoration of historic ironwork, some of which can be seen around the building: from the dizzying heights of the golden ball that tops our clock tower and cast iron brattishing on our complex series of roofs, to the enormous – and very cumbersome – portcullis gates in the basement.
Tuesday 23 September2025, The Performance Space, Central Library
Session #1 – 12.45pm arrival for a 1pm start (ends 2.15pm)
Session #2 – 5.15pm arrival for a 5.30pm start (ends 6.45pm)
The lecture is free but you’ll need to book your ticket online.

Not just any old iron! Evening Lecture
2025-09-23 17:30 - 18:45 | Performance Space
