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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260309T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260630T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260210T141859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T135412Z
UID:12821-1773043200-1782838800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Exiles and Descendants
DESCRIPTION:This exhibition from Polonia Northern England uncovers the remarkable history of a Polish community (Polonia) deported and displaced during WWII. Through photographs\, letters\, and personal documents\, it showcases experiences of forced deportation\, war crimes\, refuge\, and significant contributions to Britain’s freedom. The exhibition also explores post-war resettlement in exile in Northern England and community efforts to maintain cultural identity whilst Poland was under communist rule. PNE safeguards and shares this history to strengthen collective memory and fill the gaps in historical records. \nFree – please drop in \nPlease make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/exiles-and-descendants/
LOCATION:Archives+ Ground Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibition
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/PNE-Banner-Jan-2026-01-1-cropped-for-LL-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260415T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260926T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260428T082933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T065250Z
UID:13536-1776240000-1790442000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Cultural Masterplanning - How Manchester changed the way we make cities
DESCRIPTION:A major new exhibition at Manchester Central Library explores the process of Cultural Masterplanning and how creative interventions in urban spaces undergoing redevelopment can reconnect fragmented places with their past and allow us to look to a dynamic shared future. These playful interactions change how transformation feels and help us involved and  that change is happening with us\, not to us. \nShowcased across the Exhibition Hall and Wolfson Reading Room at Central Library from April to September 2026 are glimpses of buried histories of lives and industry which sparked curiosity and conversation about places in transition such as Ancoats\, Central Library itself and Mayfield Depot\, as well as examples from Glasgow and London. \nCitizen Manchester takes a deep dive into the extraordinary transformation of Central Library and Town Hall Extension\, Manchester’s historic twin treasures whose restoration began in 2014 and continues to lead the city’s rebirth as a global icon blending heritage and innovation. Citizen Manchester records and celebrates the creation of the first ever Modern City. From April to August 2026 Central Library’s Exhibition Hall and First Floor corridors of Central Library will feature photographs and artefacts from the transformation\, allowing viewers a close-up look at the rich patina and textures captured within the walls of these beloved spaces. \nThe Lost World of Mayfield has returned to the First Floor Reading Room of Central Library\, showcasing archival treasures from Mayfield\, the area now transformed by a thriving green space including a brand-new public park and the transformed Mayfield Depot. This area behind Manchester’s Piccadilly Station was formerly a wasteland whose industrial heritage was largely forgotten so much that few locals knew its original name.  Currently on show are artefacts and images from the Mayfield Pattern Book\, Graham’s Dye Recipe Book and the Mayfield Grit Walk story cards which uncover the history of Thomas Hoyle and Sons Calico Printing Works and the dwellings and bathhouse which served the residents and workers following its demise. \nThe Cultural Masterplanning exhibition has been curated by Sam Hallas and produced by Dan Dubowitz of FLEX Manchester School of Architecture in collaboration with Manchester City Council\, Archives+\, and Manchester Art Gallery. It can be viewed in the Exhibition Hall at Central Library until the end of June 2026 and continues on the First Floor and Reading Room with Citizen Manchester\, Grit Walks and the Lost World of Mayfield on display until the end of September 2026. \nFree – just drop in \nPlease make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/cultural-masterplanning-how-manchester-changed-the-way-we-make-cities/
CATEGORIES:Exhibition
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/1000027525.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260601T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260601T190000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260501T151055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260501T151055Z
UID:13564-1780336800-1780340400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Music Q&A: 'THE BEAUTIFUL DEATH OF OZZY OSBOURNE' with KEITH KAHN-HARRIS
DESCRIPTION:Acclaimed author Keith Kahn-Harris will be coming to the Henry Watson Music Library to discuss his new book ‘The Beautiful Death of Ozzy Osbourne’. \nWhat is a ‘good death’? How about this: After years of terrible health\, you gather friends and admirers for one last\, glorious party. A couple of weeks later\, you slip away\, surrounded by your loving family. Then\, the world comes to mourn. That is how Birmingham’s favourite son\, Ozzy Osbourne\, died. \nBy his death in June 2025 – at an age few believed he’d reach – Ozzy was much-loved\, far beyond the metal world. Once a feared\, demonic figure to some (and a joke to others)\, his Back to the Beginning farewell concert at Villa Park raised millions for charity. \nIn concise\, arresting chapters moving from Death to Life via Art\, Politics\, Sex\, Bodies\, Voice\, Family\, Myth and more\, Kahn-Harris explores how Ozzy – of all people! – attracted such generosity of spirit. The answer\, he finds\, is deeply embedded within the story and culture of metal – and has lessons for us all. \nKeith Kahn-Harris has been writing about metal since the mid-1990s and he is one of the founders of Metal Studies as a discipline. Alongside his scholarly work\, he has written metal journalism for many years\, most recently for The Quietus\, alongside books on language\, and Jewishness. \nJoin Keith in person as he talks through the book at our Henry Watson Music Library on Monday 1st June at 6pm. \nTickets are just ‘pay-what-you-can’.\nAll donations go to Manchester Libraries.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/music-qa-the-beautiful-death-of-ozzy-osbourne-with-keith-kahn-harris/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/The-Beautiful-Death-of-Ozzy-Osbourne_HarperNorth_June-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260602T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260602T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260401T142545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T142545Z
UID:13323-1780387200-1780419600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Tayari Jones
DESCRIPTION:One of the most irresistible voices in contemporary fiction Tayari Jones discusses her highly anticipated new novel Kin. Born days apart\, Vernice and Annie share loss and friendship. Growing up in segregated America\, their paths diverge\, until danger forces Vernice to risk everything. An exploration of love\, loyalty and motherhood\, powerful.  \nPresented in partnership with the Centre for New Writing and Creative Manchester and supported by Library Live.  \nBooking tickets here  Tayari Jones | Manchester Literature Festival or ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-tayari-jones/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Tayari-Jones_c_Julie-Yarborough.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260604T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260606T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20220607T135452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T083425Z
UID:6136-1780560000-1780765200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Histories Festival 2026
DESCRIPTION:Manchester Histories Festival returns for its 10th edition\, bringing people together in and around Central Library to explore the theme of Civic Pride. Expect stories\, creativity\, conversation and community collaboration\, celebrating Greater Manchester’s past\, present and future. Join us on Saturday 6 June for the Celebration Day\, including the Histories & Heritage Marketplace in Rates Hall. #MHF2026 \nTo view all the events at Central Library please visit the Manchester Histories Festival 2026 website
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-histories-festival-2022-at-central-library/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260604T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260604T194500
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260516T152927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260516T153807Z
UID:13690-1780592400-1780602300@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Computer Music Workshop from YardYard collective
DESCRIPTION:YardYard present the second instalment of their Pendulum世界术 series in Henry Watson Music Library on Thursday 4 June.   \nExplore machine learning music tools in a special 2 hour session that will include a computer music workshop and interactive jam\, followed by a live performance from rising talent: Nefo. \nIn the workshop\, together we will look into acoustic musical instrument through Data Knot\, a set of real-time audio processing machine learning tools. Data Knot is a set of machine learning tools that are optimized for low latency and real-time performance. \nProviding a forum to jam for musicians of all abilities\, the session will also utilise heritage instruments in the library’s collection including a lute\, sitar and more. \nThis session is Mandarin + English friendly. \nAfter the workshop\, there will be a live set from emerging electonic talent: Nefo. \nNefo AKA Nefo Zhang (b. 2000) works in Audiovisual and experimental art. Inspired by natural sciences and imagination\, unravel the primary element with curiosity. In transitioning from nature to abstraction\, tune into the subtle perception of everything to liberate insight and resonate within the heart. Nefo presented the ‘Immanence’ live electronic music project in symbiotic sound synthesis within the oscillation field. In winter 2018\, Nefo started an amateur hobby radio station\, transmitting light signals and broadcasting inaudible sounds of nature in the wilderness. \nThe “Pendulum世界术” series is dedicated to events that allow creatives from all around the world to share their gestalt-free singularisation and the trace in their pursuit. \nSET TIMES\n17:00-19:00 – Computer Music Workshop/Jam (Drop In)\n19:10-19:45 – Nefo (live) \nBook tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.  \nAll donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/computer-music-workshop-from-yardyard-collective/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nefo.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260609T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260609T131500
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260401T130936Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T093457Z
UID:13310-1781008200-1781010900@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Library Lunchtime Choir
DESCRIPTION:Fancy a sing on your lunch break? Or just a feel-good sing to boost your day? Then come along to our regular Library Lunchtime Choir session! \nThere is no pressure to be a virtuoso\, we’re just singing to feel better. The session will be 45 minutes of warm-ups and an arrangement of a well-known tune. You don’t need to be able to read music\, we will learn everything by ear using the lyrics. \nSessions are run by Sarah Adams (Choirs Manchester) and the ethos is all about setting a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy singing together as a group. \nCome along with a friend or on your own\, it’ll be a friendly\, laid back session! \nFree – just drop in. \nPlease consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/library-lunchtime-choir/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/library-lunchtime-choir-Image-UPDATED.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260610T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260614T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260512T084738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T084738Z
UID:13658-1781078400-1781456400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Festival of Libraries 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this celebration of Greater Manchester’s 133 libraries. The award-winning festival\, supported by Arts Council England\, features a vibrant programme that highlights the library network’s full offer\, across wellbeing\, culture and creativity\, digital and information and reading. \nThe full programme for the Festival of Libraries 2025\, including event and activities at Central Library\, can be found on the Festival of Libraries website here.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/festival-of-libraries-2026/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Central-Library-poster-MCOL_FOL-26_Editable-Social-Posts_01-02-LL-version-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260611T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260611T140000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260518T135046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135224Z
UID:13696-1781175600-1781186400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Festival of Libraries: MMU Manchester Skill Map
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an interactive activity connecting Manchester residents to skills\, opportunities and each other. Discover skills you can learn\, share knowledge and shape your future in this fun and engaging workshop. Find out more at https://rise.mmu.ac.uk \nFree – just drop in \nPlease consider making a donation here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/festival-of-libraries-mmu-manchester-skill-map/2026-06-11/
LOCATION:Ground Floor
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/MMU-Manchester-Skill-Map-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260612T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260612T143000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260518T140759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T141603Z
UID:13707-1781258400-1781274600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Festival of Libraries: Lifelong Learning Summer Roadshow
DESCRIPTION:Join Trafford and Stockport College Group for Summer Roadshow. Take part in hands-on\, interactive workshops where you can create your own floral buttonhole and jewellery\, design a personalised craft box and discover new opportunities at our Gateway to Lifelong Learning information session. Come along\, try something new\, and leave with a renewed passion for learning. \nFree – find out more and reserve a place on Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below. \nPlease consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library \n 
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/festival-of-libraries-lifelong-learning-summer-roadshow/
LOCATION:Lower Ground Floor
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Lifelong-Learning-Summer-Roadshow-LL-carousel.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260613T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260613T140000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260518T135046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T135224Z
UID:13697-1781348400-1781359200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Festival of Libraries: MMU Manchester Skill Map
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an interactive activity connecting Manchester residents to skills\, opportunities and each other. Discover skills you can learn\, share knowledge and shape your future in this fun and engaging workshop. Find out more at https://rise.mmu.ac.uk \nFree – just drop in \nPlease consider making a donation here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/festival-of-libraries-mmu-manchester-skill-map/2026-06-13/
LOCATION:Ground Floor
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/MMU-Manchester-Skill-Map-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260613T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260613T163000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260519T110608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T110608Z
UID:13720-1781352000-1781368200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:A Dance for my Foremothers
DESCRIPTION:Get ready to move and honor the powerful women who came before us with a dance experience full of soul and stories. \n\n\n\n\nDance has long brought people together and is a key part of the Baganda People of Uganda. This workshop explores how dance can challenge authoritarian rule\, focusing on how Baganda dances strengthen community and empowerment. \nCoordinated by Peninah Wampamba and Brenda Sempasa\, the session connects dance with politics\, health\, and decolonisation. Participants will also take part in the dancing themselves.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/a-dance-for-my-foremothers/
LOCATION:Performance Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Dance-for-my-foremothers.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260613T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260613T150000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260401T131346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T131346Z
UID:13319-1781359200-1781362800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Choirs Manchester - Live Performance
DESCRIPTION:Come along to the Henry Watson Music Library for some exceptional choral music from: Choirs Manchester. \nChoirs Manchester are a collective of choirs running in Chorlton and Withington. They are all about singing to feel good and love nothing more than performing their original arrangements of current and classic tunes. They have performed yearly at the renowned Manchester 10k\, at Refuge\, Manchester and are consistently part of local community events in South Manchester such as Chorlton Arts Festival and for the charity Emmeline’s Pantry. \nChoirs Manchester are led by the talented Sarah Adams\, who among her many other accolades has conducted the Manchester’s Survivors’ Choir and performed alongside Take That. As a singer/songwriter of her own accord\, she has also performed in reputable venues across the city such as Band on the Wall\, Manchester Academy\, Bury Met\, Deaf Institute and been part of the ‘Live at Lunchtime’ series at Bridgewater Hall. \nSpeaking about Choirs Manchester and their concerts\, Sarah says: \n“I pride myself on creating a relaxed\, no pressure environment that is all about singing to feel good and my ability to encourage a sense of community during a session. It is an empowering activity\, not just for an individual but also for connecting people as a group.” \nThis June\, take a seat in the historic music library\, sit-back\, watch\, listen\, and immerse yourself in their uplifting vibe. \nFree – just drop in. \nPlease consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/choirs-manchester-live-performance/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Choirs-Manchester.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260614T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260614T160000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260513T090947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T091029Z
UID:10895-1781438400-1781452800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Festival of Libraries Sunday Funday
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a special Sunday opening as we celebrate the final day of Festival of Libraries 2026. Expect special performances\, music\, exhibitions\, craft sessions\, and lots of fun for all ages! \nFree entry – please drop in (face painting: £2 per child) \nPlease make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/festival-of-libraries-sunday-funday-3/
LOCATION:Ground Floor
CATEGORIES:Family
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sunday-Funday-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260615T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260615T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260320T094801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T095108Z
UID:13161-1781510400-1781542800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Natalie Haynes
DESCRIPTION:Bestselling author and broadcaster Natalie Haynes returns to Manchester Literature Festival to discuss her powerful new novel No Friend to This House – an extraordinary reimagining of the myth of Medea.   \nBased on Euripides’ classic tragedy\, No Friend to This House explores love\, vengeance\, power and survival\, as Medea faces an impossible choice that will change the course of her and her family’s lives. Known for her bold and compassionate retellings of Greek mythology\, Natalie brings fresh life to this ancient story\, placing one of literature’s most misunderstood women centre stage.  \nJoin us to see experienced broadcaster Natalie Haynes discuss her enduring passion for the classics and why these ancient stories continue to resonate so powerfully today.  \n‘It’s superb: sharp\, funny\, inventive\, powerfully humane…she is one of the most brilliant women in the media.’ Katherine Rundell  \n‘Muse\, sorceress\, high priestess\, Haynes is all of these\, but above all she is the consummate storyteller.’ Adam Rutherford  \n‘an illuminating and often thrilling work of feminist reclamation…Haynes creates an account of her maligned protagonist that is powerfully affecting in its complexity.’ Guardian  \nNatalie Haynes is a Sunday Times bestselling author and award-winning broadcaster. She is the author of novels The Amber Fury\, The Children of Jocasta\, a feminist retelling of the Oedipus and Antigone stories; A Thousand Ships\, a retelling of the Trojan War from an all-female perspective and Stone Blind\, a re-telling of the Medusa story. Her non-fiction books include The Ancient Guide to Modern Life; Pandora’s Jar about the women in Greek myths and Divine Might: Goddesses in Greek Myth.  \nShe has written and presented eleven series of BBC Radio 4’s Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics and is celebrated for bringing Greek myth and classical history to a wide contemporary audience.  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nBooking tickets here Natalie Haynes | Manchester Literature Festival or ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-natalie-haynes/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Natalie-Haynes-2022-c-James-Betts-Smaller-Size-for-Web-LL-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260620T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260620T160000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20240613T111053Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T135517Z
UID:8647-1781953200-1781971200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Refugee Week Celebrations
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a special day of events celebrating the contributions\, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Experience a community Persian Calligraphy taster session led by Iranian artist Sareh Moradi\, join storytime sessions\, and much more. \nProgramme \n\n\nPersian Calligraphy workshop \n11am-1pm \n\n\nLower Ground Floor \n\n\nWe are hosting a community Persian Calligraphy taster session led by Iranian artist Sareh Moradi. This welcoming workshop invites participants to come together and explore the beauty of calligraphy through shared creativity. Guided by Sareh\, you will learn the basics of traditional lettering\, experiment with ink and reed pens\, and connect with others in a relaxed\, supportive environment. Open to all levels\, the session offers a chance to experience the joy of making art as a community. \n\n\n\nStorytimes \n\n\n2-3pm Arabic \n\n\n3-4pm Farsi \n\n\nChildren’s Library \n\n\nListen to stories and songs in English and other languages. Suitable for 4-7 year-olds. \n\n\n\n\n\nFree entry – please drop in \nPlease make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/refugee-week-celebrations/
LOCATION:Lower Ground Floor
CATEGORIES:Family
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Refugee-Week-at-Central-Library-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260620T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260620T150000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260516T093817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260516T093927Z
UID:13682-1781964000-1781967600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Make Music Day Gig: Greater Manchester Voices choir
DESCRIPTION:In celebration of Make Music Day 2026\, the Greater Manchester Voices choir will be performing a very special set in the Henry Watson Music Library.  \nThe Greater Manchester Voices is a lively community choir based in South Manchester\, built on three simple foundations: Singing\, Smiling and Socialising. \nFounded by Musical Director Ollie Mills in 2011\, the choir are going strong in their 15th year. Meeting every Thursday at St Nicholas Church\, Kingsway they have a reputation for belting out anything from pop and show tunes\, to jazz and classical\, and even a little world music. \nWith an “everyone welcome” attitude\, the encouraging group is made up of four vocal sections who enthusiastically rehearse all year round. The result is a choir with luscious harmonies and ambitious vocal arrangements. \nTaking place on Saturday 20th June\, this FREE afternoon concert at Central Library\, is titled “Summer Songs In The City”. The show will mark their first public outing in Manchester city centre and the group are excited to share their joy of singing with a new audience. \nVisitors can expect Bowie\, Fleetwood Mac\, Coldplay\, Lloyd-Webber\, traditional African songs and even a sea shanty…. \nFree – just drop in! \nPlease consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library \n \n 
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/make-music-day-gig-greater-manchester-voices-choir/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/TGMV-Summer-Songs-Central-Library-Poster-scaled-e1778924066384.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260620T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260620T160000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260513T100929Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T100929Z
UID:13674-1781964000-1781971200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Dragon Boat Festival Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an interactive session celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival with Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music. Learn about this traditional Chinese holiday by making your own mugwort sachet and designing your own kite during this fun and engaging workshop. Suitable for children. \nFree – please drop in \nPlease make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online \n  \n 
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/dragon-boat-festival-celebration/
CATEGORIES:Family
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Dragon-Boat-Festival.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260624T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260624T193000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260513T081632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T081819Z
UID:13664-1782324000-1782329400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Crime Central
DESCRIPTION:Crime Central is the monthly crime and thriller fiction event at Manchester Central Library. \n\n\n\n\nAUTHORS APPEARING IN JUNE ARE LIZZY BARBER\, LIV MATTHEWS AND CHARLOTTE DUCKWORTH!\nBringing the best from all over!\nFeaturing the best and brightest crime writing talent both locally and from around the country – the big names are all coming to Manchester! \nGo behind the scenes!\nShowcasing blockbuster bestsellers\, emerging talent and industry insiders\, Crime Central will share the real story of what goes on in the crime world. \nMeet your favourite authors!\nWith giveaways\, audience interaction\, book signings\, the chance to ask questions and more – while bringing a crime fiction buzz back to this great northern city. \nPay what you can tickets can be booked here.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/crime-central-24/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Crime-Central-logo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260625T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260625T190000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260303T153116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T153511Z
UID:13072-1782410400-1782414000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Music Q&A: ‘It's Time the Tale Were Told - A People's History of the Smiths'
DESCRIPTION:‘It’s Time The Tale Were Told – A People’s History of The Smiths’ is the story of one of the UK’s most influential indie bands and Manchester’s greatest musical exports. \nFeaturing the words of over 500 fans of the band\, this joyous new book has been collated by author and journalist Iain Key\, plus publisher Richard Houghton (Spenwood Books) will be coming to Central Library to tell us about it. From memories of their earliest club shows through to the last ever gig at London’s Brixton Academy\, this is a portrait of The Smiths as painted by the fans. \nWith personal photographs\, memorabilia\, anecdotes and first-hand accounts of more than 100 gigs\, readers will get a front row view of the indie music legends. Based on the songwriting partnership of Morrissey and Marr\, The Smiths’ 1985 album Meat Is Murder topped the UK album charts and their other three studio albums reached No 2. The band broke up in 1987 and turned down all invitations to reunite. \nIain Key is a recognisable face on the Manchester Music Scene from many years in the late ’80s and ’90s.A journalist for the tastemaker music site Louder Than War\, Iain has written over 500 pieces including music\, book and gig reviews. Iain has also produced weekly music shows for the last 4 years for Louder Than War Radio\, focussing on both new music and interviews with new and established acts. Iain has also edited People’s Histories of The Clash and Billy Bragg for Spenwood Books. \nIain will be speaking to the publisher of Spenwood Books\, Richard Houghton\, Expect an intimate\, in-person talk\, Q&A and book signing with the author.\n\nTickets are ‘pay-what-you can’ – available via Eventbrite here or clicking the ‘Book Now’ button below\, simply ‘pay-what-you can’. \nAll donations go to Manchester Libraries.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/music-qa-its-time-the-tale-were-told-a-peoples-history-of-the-smiths/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Richard-Iain.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260625T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260625T193000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260122T171412Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T072253Z
UID:12647-1782410400-1782415800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Behind the Scenes Tour
DESCRIPTION:What do George V\, Gypsy Rose Lee and Bernard Bresslaw have in common? \nWhich musician was once thrown out of the Language and Literature Library? \nWhat would you find now in the space where Patrick Stewart and Helen Mirren – amongst many others – played their first roles? \nAll 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. \nPlease meet in the main entrance (Shakespeare Hall) of Central Library from 5.45pm. The tour starts at 6pm. \nDid you know\, you can join our Library Lovers scheme and enjoy a free tour\, plus discounts in our shop and cafe\, and invites to other events and exhibition launches? Find out more and join online. \nBook you place on this tour on eventbrite here or click on ‘Book Now’ below.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/behind-the-scenes-tour-2/
LOCATION:Entrance Hall
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Central-Library-Reading-Room.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260711T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260711T163000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260410T140921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T132529Z
UID:13367-1783769400-1783787400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Never Mind The Books Here’s PUNK DAY!
DESCRIPTION:This July\, the Henry Watson Music Library will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Sex Pistols’ iconic 1976 gig at the Lesser Free Trade Hall. \nA definitive milestone in the city’s musical history\, Sex Pistols’ first appearance in Manchester has since become the stuff of rock legend. Named “the most important gig of all time” by the NME\, it was a watershed moment that ushered in a new generation of artists and a new way of thinking\, and redefined music in the North\, and beyond\, forever.  \n\nWith the former Lesser Free Trade Hall just across the street\, the Henry Watson Music Library at Central Library will be commemorating that legendary date with a day that salutes everything PUNK.\n\nPromising a packed afternoon of themed talks and Q&As\, acclaimed author DAVID NOLAN will be presenting his book “I Swear I Was There – Sex Pistols\, Manchester and the Gig that Changed the World”. Despite thousands claiming they were in attendance\, only a handful of people were actually there – but those that were went on to form bands including The Smiths\, Buzzcocks\, Joy Division\, New Order and The Fall. In a myth-busting masterclass of investigative journalism\, Nolan has sorted the hardcore facts from the rock’n’roll fiction and will be appearing at the Library in-person to tell us exactly who really was at the Lesser Free Trade Hall gig\, and who has just been blagging… \n\nElsewhere\, Manchester music scene legend and talking head JOHN ROBB\, will be talking about his brand new book “Punk Rock Ruined My Life and Other Stories”. As the frontman of both Membranes and Goldblade\, and founder of tastemaker site Louder Than War\, John is a man who knows punk inside-out. Chatting through his new memoir\, he will be delving into his deep friendships with figures like Poly Styrene to Chris Packham\, growing up in Blackpool\, interviewing icons like Mark E. Smith to Patti Smith\, plus opening-up on a host of other riotous stories. \n\nPlus\, proving it wasn’t just the Pistols tearing up the rule book\, Louder Than War journalist IAIN KEY will be presenting his new “All The Young Punks: A People’s History of The Clash”. From their own punk explosion of 1976 to become an internationally acclaimed arena act\, Iain will be discussing their history with lifelong Clash fan PAUL HANLEY (ex-Fall). \n\nAnd in true punk spirit\, one of Manchester’s most fiery new acts DEAD STILETTOS will be performing live to show us that the legacy of what the Sex Pistols started in the Lesser Free Trade Hall is alive and well. DIY to the core\, the five-piece have been described as “Stoogified Mancunian Punk” and will deliver a shot of live rock’n’roll mayhem to close proceedings with a bang. \n\nBook tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’. All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/never-mind-the-books-heres-punk-day/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Punk-Day-Poster-e1776086717208.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260717T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260718T200000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20251125T094235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260425T111222Z
UID:12113-1784282400-1784404800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:LOVE STORIES etc FESTIVAL
DESCRIPTION:#LoveStoriesEtc romance festival is returning for a third year to Manchester Central Library on 17th and 18th July 2026 for two packed days of exciting author panels\, industry expert led workshops\, and creative sessions! \nThe schedule for Friday 17th July includes… \n‘How to Boss Booktok’ with Ash Jayy from The Picture of Romance \n‘What Can an Editor do for You?’ with freelance editor Caroline Hogg \nA writer’s advice session hosted by the Romantic Novelists’ Association \n‘How to look Professional Online on a Budget’ with Branding Expert and Photographer\, Claire Gardner from The Authors Lounge \nA Book Bedazzling Party \nKindly sponsored by Vinci Books. Escape to the sun with a Sublime Retreats romance by Joy Skye!  \nA Booklovers tour of Manchester \nA Silent Reading Social Event \nWhy Romance Readers Should Rule The World with Bella North \nOn Saturday 18th\, we’re spoiling you with a bumper Author Day including –  \n Rosie Walsh\, Lizzie Damilola Blackburn\, Kate Lord Brown\,  \nCal Speet\, Rachel Hore\, Jessica George\,  \nCressida McLaughlin\, Kiley Dunbar\, Rufaro Faith Mazarura\,  \nLiz Fenwick\, Holly Hepburn\, Chloe Seager\,  \nBella Osborne\, Jill Mansell\, Kirstie Pelling\, \nRachel Wood\, Libby Page\, Beth Moran\, Megan Clawson \nBianca Gillam\, Matt Cain MBE\, Ellis Hunter \nJack Strange\, Tessa Bickers\,  \nCatrin Cadogan\, Roxy Dunn\, Annie Lord  \nRosie Storey and Georgia Stone!! \nDUE TO DEMAND\, EXTRA TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE ON EVENTBRITE HERE!
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/love-stories-etc-festival-2026/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event,Book Fair,Book Launch,Party,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GwxmwhMWIAAhUn5.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260725T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260725T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260326T101226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T152504Z
UID:13220-1784966400-1784998800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Stereo Listening Booth - LIVE!
DESCRIPTION:A special matinee show from the Manchester electronic act LIVE from the Henry Watson Music Library. \n\n\n\nEllesmere Port resident Patrick Oakford and Manchester’s Travis Eagle write and perform original electronic / dance / trance / club soundscapes under the name Stereo Listening Booth. \nReviewing the debut album ‘Disko Noir’\, Louder than War magazine described the experience as ‘somewhere between a less sleazy Soft Cell and more interesting New Order’. \nThe band’s mission statement is a simple one: ‘nothing ruled out\, nothing ruled in’. \nStereo Listening Booth will be performing live at selective venues throughout the year\, with an exclusive performance right here in the Henry Watson Music Library at Central Library. \nSpecial guests TBC – watch this space. \nBook tickets and make a donation on Eventbrite here or ‘Book Now’ below \nAll donations go to the Manchester Libraries Trust (registered charity number: 1150161). \n \nWatch / listen to “99 Otago St” here:  \n \n 
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/stereo-listening-booth-live/
LOCATION:Henry Watson Music Library
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/461481165_122185480742216246_943961226134619298_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260820T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260820T200000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260323T124607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T130833Z
UID:13179-1787252400-1787256000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Puppet Folk Experience!
DESCRIPTION:The Puppet Folk Experience is a joyful live show combining acoustic music and beautifully crafted puppetry. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nManchester Libraries are so excited to welcome the wonderful Puppet Folk Experience to Central Library this August. It’s going to be the most sensational\, inspirational\, celebrational show!! \nThe Puppet Folk Experience is a joyful live show combining acoustic music and beautifully crafted puppetry. \nMusician Andy and puppeteer Liam bring songs\, characters\, and playful storytelling together in a performance full of humour\, nostalgia\, and warmth. Featuring lively banjo-led music and an ensemble of expressive puppet characters\, the show celebrates the charm of classic puppetry and musical storytelling. \nThe Puppet Folk Experience delights audiences young and old with a performance that is heartfelt\, imaginative\, and full of fun. \nDoors opem 6.30pm \nPerformance starts 7pm \nCafe and bar will be open all evening. \nTickets are only £5 plus booking fee. There is also a buy 4 tickets for the price of 3 offer! \n\n\n \n 
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/the-puppet-folk-experience/
CATEGORIES:Culture,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PFE-Promo-1-scaled-e1774271567395.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260825T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260825T170000
DTSTAMP:20260522T230424
CREATED:20260424T114411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T114411Z
UID:13503-1787644800-1787677200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents An Evening with Mieko Kawakami
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an unmissable evening with one of Japan’s most celebrated young novelists.   \nThe 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.   \nHana is fifteen\, hopeful and living in a tiny Tokyo apartment with her mother\, with no money and no security. Then Kimiko enters her life – a bright\, magnetic force who offers escape. Together they open Lemon\, a shabby bar that becomes a fragile haven of friendship\, independence and possibility. For a moment\, Hana feels invincible. In the narrow alleys of Sangenjaya however\, nothing is as it seems\, and hope can quickly turn to danger.   \nTwenty years later\, Kimiko stands trial for a shocking crime\, and Hana must confront her own past and its devastating consequences.  \nDark\, hypnotic and utterly compelling\, Sisters in Yellow confirms Mieko Kawakami as one of the great writers of her generation.  Join us as she discusses sisterhood\, betrayal and the stories that haunt us.  \n‘This is not the Japan you find in novels about cats\, cafés and bookshops. Kawakami draws back this cosy façade to reveal the grimy reality underneath — and she does it with consummate style. With Sisters in Yellow\, she proves she is still the most exciting Japanese novelist at work today’ The Times  \n‘I can never forget the sense of pure astonishment I felt when I first read Mieko Kawakami’ Haruki Murakami  \nMieko Kawakami is the acclaimed author of the internationally best-selling novel Breasts and Eggs\, a New York Times Notable Book of the Year and one of Time’s Best 10 Books of 2020. Her other novels\, translated by Sam Bett and David Boyd\, include Heaven\, shortlisted for the 2022 International Booker Prize\, and All the Lovers in the Night. In 2024\, Sisters in Yellow won the Yomiuri Prize for Literature in Japan. Her books\, translated into over forty languages\, are known for their insights into the female body\, and philosophical questions surrounding gender\, class\, and ethics in modern society. Born in Osaka\, Kawakami lives in Tokyo\, Japan.  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nBooking tickets here or ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-an-evening-with-mieko-kawakami/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Mieko-Kawakami-photo-cropped-for-LL.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR