• Blooming in the West – Flowers from China

    Performance Space

    In this talk, Dr Fang ZONG will introduce some traditional garden plants of China and their journeys to the West. Their cultural symbolism, presence in art and medical applications will also be discussed. The seasonal plants will be highlighted, for example, bamboo, flowering plum and evergreen pine as the ‘Three Friends of Winter’. Dr Fang […]

  • Saturday Spectacular – Christmas Special

    Performance Space

    Our Saturday Spectacular turns Christmassy this December! With family favourite films shown on our big screen, some delicious snacks to dig into, Christmas crafting, plus a seasonal singalong too; this Saturday Spectacular is guaranteed to fill the whole family with yuletide cheer. A family friendly event, suitable for children up to 12 years old. Free- […]

  • United in Rebellion: The Story of the Anti-Nazi League

    Henry Watson Music Library

    Join us for this talk inspired by Geoff Brown's book, 'A People's History of the Anti-Nazi League, 1977-1981'. Discover how the Anti-Nazi League (ANL) emerged from the streets, schools and music scenes of late 1970s Britain to confront racism and the far right. Free - book tickets here and click 'Book Now' below.    

  • Christmas Extravaganza!

    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 […]

  • Carol of the Bells-Film Screening

    Performance Space

    Join us for a special screening of Shchedryk, a feature film by director Olesia Morgunets-Isaenko (122 min), in Ukrainian with English subtitles. At its heart is the world-famous melody by Leontovych, Carol of the Bells. The film intertwines the lives of Ukrainians, Poles, Jews, and Russians against the backdrop of Soviet repression, occupation, and war. This is […]

  • 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.  […]

  • Full Volume Podcast: Christmas Edition

    Online

    Step into Christmas with Manchester Libraries for the final Full Volume podcast of 2025. Back for one last hurrah before the year is out, presenter Alan Lynch and co-host Gary Parkinson have a nostalgic look back at what was a magical year for Manchester Libraries. Reflecting on the successful launch of the podcast and the […]

  • Recurring

    Ukrainian Storytime

    Children's Library

    Привіт! Join our monthly Ukrainian storytelling sessions! Learn new words, listen to stories in Ukrainian and English and have fun! Suitable for children aged 4 to 7. 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  

  • Manga Appreciation Club

    Lower Ground Floor

    Are you a manga fan? Never read a manga before but want to see what the whole fuss is about? Either way, this group is for you! Share your passion, meet new people and join themed activities. Free – just drop in. Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of […]

  • Book Launch: Forbidden Waters by Rob Parker

    Performance Space

    Join us to celebrate publication of the second in Rob Parker's Cam Killick series: Forbidden Waters! We are thrilled to celebrate the launch of Rob Parker's Forbidden Waters on the 15th of January at Manchester Central Library! Rob will be in conversation with Luca Veste, author of The Bone Keeper. Doors: 5.30pm, starts: 6pm. Tickets are £4. Admission is […]

  • Recurring

    Little Reads

    Children's Library

    Brought to you by Manchester Literature Festival, Little Reads is a fun, 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. Free – just drop in. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural […]

  • Recurring

    Talk English Circles

    Ground Floor (Handling Tables)

    Come along to Talk English Circles at Manchester Central Library to practise speaking English and meet other people. Learn English, build skills and step into ESOL with this programme funded by Economic Activity Trailblazer and Manchester Adult Education. Open to all levels. Every Tuesday, 12.30-2.30pm Free – just drop in. Please make a donation to […]