“New technologies may divert our attention, but music created in the moment can still be found where it always has been, in the feet, fingers, voices and spirits of musicians in every corner of the world.” Legendary music producer Joe Boyd (White Bicycle: Making Music in the 1960s) invites you to open your ‘minds and […]
THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT. ‘Some stories sink down into your bones.’ Award-winning novelist Susanna Clarke (Piranesi) joins us to discuss how writing and reading have shaped her life. From her worldwide bestseller Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, which celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year, to her enchanting new story The Wood at Midwinter. […]
‘Andrew O’Hagan has made more than a great book – he has made a social miracle.’ Joshua Cohen Scottish author Andrew O’Hagan joins us to discuss his gripping new state-of-the-nation novel Caledonian Road with host Dave Haslam. Art historian and celebrated critic Campbell Flynn is beguiled by his provocative student Milo Mangasha who leads him […]
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. […]
In partnership with Create, disabled and non-disabled students from Manchester and Salford schools come together to create, build connections and break down barriers. Working with top class musicians they will write and perform original songs on the theme of JOY at this celebratory event presented by Manchester Literature Festival and supported by Library Live. Email miriam@manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk for […]
Two masters of folk horror join us to discuss their chilling, atmospheric new books, both set in a single location over a significant period of time. The Hotel by Daisy Johnson begins with a hotel built on a possessed plot of land - its origins evident when a woman is accused of witchcraft – and […]
Acclaimed poet and creative facilitator Francesca Beard will lead a workshop inspired by the work of cult writer Philip K Dick (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?). In this playful, hands-on session, participants will use poetic and improvisational story-telling techniques to create text that explores big philosophical questions such as ‘What does it mean to […]
Join us for a rare screening of the 1994 Arena documentary A Day in The Afterlife about cult author Philip K Dick (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?). Afterwards, see writers Kate Feld, David Hartley and Irenosen Okojie discuss his speculative / science fiction and imagination. Poet Francesca Beard will also perform a new commission inspired by his […]
Get creative at our free craft activities inspired by Black History Month. Artist Tina Ramos Ekongo and musician Johanna Leung will help you do some mindful painting to music. This workshop is suitable for families and lasts two hours. All materials are provided. Free - no booking required Please make a donation to support our […]
Who said that science can’t be fun? Join our science-inspired activities for half term. You will make balloon rockets and find out how strong paper can be! Free, just drop in. Suitable for families. Free – just drop in. For more information email angela.rawcliffe@manchester.gov.uk Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme […]
Looking for a fun Saturday activity for the whole family? Look no further. Join our engaging Saturday half-term session. Expect music, crafts, and lots of fun! Suitable for children of all ages. Free - just drop in. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless […]
We're getting ready to welcome little spooks and ghouls to a very creepy Central Library for a fun-filled family Halloween spectacular. Are you brave enter the world of fearsome face-painters, spooky silent discos, creepy crafts, torturous treats and sinister surprises? £12.50 family ticket. Sorry, no unaccompanied adults allowed.
From dedicated performance spaces to stairwells, screens, nooks and domes, Central Library might directly inspire your next event or intervention. Contact us to arrange a tour.
