PLEASE NOTE - THIS EVENT HAS NOW SOLD OUT! Join us for an unmissable evening with one of Japan's most celebrated young novelists. The Booker-shortlisted author of Heaven and Breasts and Eggs, Mieko Kawakami makes a rare visit to the UK to launch Sisters in Yellow, a gripping, stylish noir set in Tokyo’s shadowy underbelly. Hana is fifteen, hopeful and […]
Join Sarah for lots of fun, music-making, action songs, playing instruments & more! Come along for a fun and interactive musical adventure, with each session specially tailored to different ages. Session 1 – Babies & Younger EYFS 10:00–10:45am Suitable for babies and young children up to age 5 This session is particularly tailored towards babies […]
Join artist Caroline for a fun, free Summer Reading Challenge activity! Get ready to sing, play, and create! Warm up your vocal cords and bring your puppet to life in this exciting craft session! Suitable for ages 4-11. Free entry, just drop in. Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our […]
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 – just drop in. Please make a donation to support […]
Bring a book, get comfortable and stay cool in our quiet, air-conditioned reading space. Take some time for yourself and escape into a story! Join our Cosy Reading Club at Manchester Central Library, a silent reading group offering a peaceful, shared experience to unwind with a good book and chat with fellow book lovers. There […]
Kick off your Pride weekend early with a special family story and craft session at Manchester Central Library. Join us for a fun and interactive storytime with songs, rhymes and Pride-themed picture books. Then get crafty! Create your own protest signs and noise-makers, to celebrate in style and make your voice heard! We will also have a […]
Join storytellers and puppeteers, The League of Curiosity, to hear the tale of The Blossom Bird. Meet Pipit, a lost and featherless little bird, who is taken in by a family of wildflowers. With their gentle guidance, Pipit learns what it means to belong, to grow, and to trust the magic of who they truly […]
Unleash the musical theatre kid in you with this programme of music-themed films! Watch a family classic on the library’s huge screen, get involved in music-themed crafts and find out how you can take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Suitable for children up to 12 years old. Free entry, just drop in. Please make a donation to support […]
Join storytellers and puppeteers, The League of Curiosity, to hear the tale of The Blossom Bird. Meet Pipit, a lost and featherless little bird, who is taken in by a family of wildflowers. With their gentle guidance, Pipit learns what it means to belong, to grow, and to trust the magic of who they truly […]
Manchester Mahjong Music Club (MMMC) is a new community gathering where mahjong and music bring people together. Whether you're a complete beginner or have been playing for years, everyone is welcome, especially the aunties! Each session pairs casual mahjong with a curated listening experience, introducing players to everything from classical music and timeless favourites to […]
Alternative folk risers THE LAST CABOOSE will be performing live at the Henry Watson Music Library this September. Formed in Manchester in 2024 The Last Caboose play music with an acoustic feel, bringing together elements of Folk, Country, Americana and Classic Pop. A line up which includes mandolin; guitar; double bass and piano, combines with […]
Join our friendly group and spend a cosy afternoon meeting new people and learning a new skill! Have a go at knitting, cross-stitch and hand embroidery in a relaxed environment. All materials provided, just bring yourself. All levels welcome. Pay what you feel. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at […]
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.
