Library Live

Knowing Yesterday, Shaping Tomorrow: The Inaugural Lou Kushnick Memorial Lecture with Professor Abdul Alkalimat
2026-03-12 16:00 - 19:00 UTC | Performance Space
The Ahmed Iqbal Ullah Education Trust, in partnership with the University of Manchester, is launching a new annual lecture in honour of our founder, Professor Lou Kushnick. Lou was a tireless advocate for anti‑racist education and a driving force behind both the Education Trust and the RACE Centre. Since his death in early 2025, he has been deeply missed.
This new lecture series celebrates his legacy, beginning with an inaugural talk by Professor Abdul Alkalimat. Professor Alkalimat – internationally respected scholar-activist and a founding figure in Black Studies in the United States – was a friend and colleague of Lou’s.
Professor Alkalimat opens this new lecture series by commemorating Lou’s important work. He will respond to four key questions: Who was Lou Kushnick? Why am I speaking about him? Why was he concerned about racism? And why should we be concerned about racism? His perspective will reflect his African American identity, but will also connect with the trans-Atlantic perspective he shared with Lou.
We welcome friends observing Ramadan and our programme will allow for Maghrib and Iftar.
There is a dedicated prayer space in Manchester Central Library.
Complimentary hot food, tea and coffee will be provided.

Book your free space on eventbrite here or click on ‘Book Now’ below.

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About Professor Abdul Alkalimat

Abdul Alkalimat (born Gerald A. McWorter) is a founder of the field of Black Studies and author of many books and papers about Black liberation. He wrote the first college textbook for the field, Introduction to Afro-American Studies, which has seen seven editions, the last one free and online. A lifelong scholar-activist with a PhD from the University of Chicago, he has lectured, taught, and directed academic programs across the US, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and China. Two of his early contributions were serving as chair of the Chicago chapter of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and co-founding the Organization of Black American Culture (OBAC) in 1967. Raised in Chicago’s Cabrini Rowhouses, he is now professor emeritus of African American Studies and Information Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign.
His most recent books are:
* The History of Black Studies, published by Pluto Press 2021
* Dialectics of Liberation: The African Liberation Support Committee, published by Africa World Press 2022
* The Wall of Respect: Public Art and Black Liberation in 1960s Chicago, co-edited with Romi Crawford and Rebecca Zorach and published by Northwestern University Press 2017
* New Philadelphia, written by Gerald A. McWorter and Kate Williams-McWorter for the New Philadelphia (IL) Association and published by Path Press 2018.
Much of his work is freely available at http://www.alkalimat.org.

Cargo Recording Studios: 1977-1985
2026-03-12 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Chris Connelly is coming to Manchester Central Library to discuss his exceptional new book, ‘Cargo Recording Studios: 1977-1985’.
The Cargo Studios book is a history of the music recorded at the Rochdale studio. The studio opened in late 1977 and closed in early 1985. It’s where the seminal ‘Atmosphere’ by Joy Division was recorded, as well as other influential tracks from The Fall, Gang of Four, The Chameleons, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, A Certain Ratio, Echo and the Bunnymen, and many more. It was also where David Gedge of the Wedding Present, Lisa Stansfield and Roland Gift first recorded.
A true labour of love, Chris Connelly spent twelve years researching the 360-page hard-back book which features over a thousand pictures and music memorabilia. With over 900 people interviewed, it also includes essays by artists who recorded there, who expand upon the times, hustling to get gigs, the politics of the day, and venues played.
Launching his book in Manchester City Centre for the first time, Chris Connelly will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library on Thursday 12 March @ 6pm.
He will be in conversation with author and musician Mark Hoyle (of the band Dub Sex), who is among the musicians to have recorded at Cargo Studios. Hoyle released his own book ‘Swerve – Dub Sex & Other Stories’ in 2024.
While you’re here…we have a broad selection of books on music which are free to borrow if you have a library card. You can browse our music collection online here or in the Henry Watson Music Library at this event, and find out how to join the library free here or on the day (just bring along some ID with your home address on to complete sign up and pick up your new library card).
Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’. All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Manchester Literature Festival presents Satoshi Yagisawa & Emi Yagi
2026-03-14 08:00 - 17:00 | Performance Space
A celebration of contemporary Japanese fiction, this special event brings together Satoshi Yagisawa and Emi Yagi to discuss storytelling, love and loneliness. From the tender life-affirming novel Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, to the joyful, queer love story of When the Museum Is Closed, hear two of Japan’s most exciting writers. Presented by Manchester Literature Festival. Supported by Library Live.
Book tickets at manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk or click on ‘Book Now’ below

National Memorial Day of Hungary
2026-03-14 11:00 - 14:00 | Performance Space
Join us for a wonderful day of celebration of Hungarian independence organised by the Hungarian Consulate in Manchester. Watch special performances of traditional music and dances and meet the Hungarian community in Manchester.
Please note that this event will be in Hungarian.
Free – please drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Irish Dancing Session
2026-03-14 12:30 - 13:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
In celebration of St Patrick’s Day 2026, Central Library will be hosting a special Irish dancing display and interactive teaching experience in its Henry Watson Music Library on the First Floor.

Teaming up with the highly acclaimed The Ward-Mallinson School of Irish dancing, the school will be sending two of their finest dancers who have both been pupils in the School since they were 5 years old. Olivia, 28, and Grace, 19, are both dancers who are multiple regional title holders and British National Champions. Olivia has also won a Great Britain title. They are world medal holders and recognised as amongst the elite dancers in their respective age groups.
The Ward-Mallinson School of Irish dancing was launched in 1995 by Justine Ward-Mallinson. Having started Irish dancing at the age of 8 at the St Chads School of Irish dancing and led a prestigious career, she has since found great success with her own school, with classes held at the Irish World Heritage centre. Over the past 30 years, the school has boasted dancers who have achieved podium placements at World and All Ireland Championships, plus title winners at Great Britain, British Nationals and American National Championships.

Inviting library users to get into the spirit of St Patrick’s Day with this truly special event, audiences will be able to watch masters at work, with opportunities to join in too.

Suitable for all ages.
All donations will go to Manchester Libraries.
Tickets are ‘pay-what-you can’ and on sale now here or by clicking ‘Book Now’ below. 1 ticket per customer

St Patrick’s Ceili Band Experience with Mouse's Nest
2026-03-14 14:30 - 16:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
It wouldn’t be St Patrick’s Day without a ceili would it?
So, on the weekend before the world goes green for Ireland’s patron saint, Central Library is hosting a special ceili band and dancing experience in the Henry Watson Music Library.
Come down on Saturday 14 March, where local legends, Mouses Nest, will perform live in the afternoon to get your St Patrick’s Day weekend swinging.
Hailing from the Northwest, the Mouse’s Nest have put on storming performances across the UK for over 15 years, playing weddings, parties, fundraisers, functions, dance workshops and festivals. Performing in the Henry Watson Music Library for the first time, the band will be playing an exciting mixture of Celtic tunes, carefully chosen for audiences to listen and dance to as they like.
Alongside their accomplished guitarist and fiddle player, the band will bring an expert ‘caller’ for those who might like to get in-step with some traditional Celtic ceili dancing on the day. The caller will walk each dance through before the music starts and will keep calling to make sure everyone dancing knows exactly what to do.
A perfect Celtic experience for families to join in the fun this St Patrick’s Day, catch the Mouse’s Nest on Saturday 14 March from 2.30pm.
Suitable for all ages
All donations will go to Manchester Libraries.
While you’re here…we have a broad selection of books on music which are free to borrow if you have a library card. You can browse our music collection online here or in the Henry Watson Music Library at this event, and find out how to join the library free here or on the day (just bring along some ID with your home address on to complete sign up and pick up your new library card).
Tickets for the show are ‘pay-what-you-can’. To book, click on the eventbrite event link here or click the ‘Book Now’ button below.

Irish Researcher Day
2026-03-17 10:30 - 14:00 | Seminar Suite, Floor Two
Join the Manchester & Lancashire Family History Society (MLFHS) on St Patrick’s Day for a special Irish Research Day including informative sessions and fascinating presentations including:

Finding Irish Ancestors – the Difficulty of Researching, 10:30am – 11.15 (45mins) – booking required via Eventbrite here
Thinking Outside the Box: my continuing search for Irish Ancestors, 11:30 – 12:15 (45 mins) – booking required via Eventbrite here
Let’s Chat about the 1926 Irish Census, 1:00—1:30 (30 mins) – booking required via Eventbrite here
Finding William; An Irish-Mancunian FH Journey, 1:45 – 2:45 (1 hour) – booking required via Eventbrite here

During breaks, lunchtime and after the last session enjoy the following activities:

Handling session Manchester Archives +
Books, maps etc for sale by MLFHS
Free research guides available – members of MLFHS Helpdesk team
Speak with author Dean Kirby for details about his book and walking tours
View letters and resource documents discussed in Presentation 2

Find out more information and ticket booking links for the four sessions on the Manchester & Lancashire Family History Society website here or click on the green ‘Book Now’ button below

Japanese Manga Drawing Workshops
2026-03-21 12:30 - 15:00 | Performance Space
Are you a manga fan aged 12-18 in Manchester? Join our FREE workshop with manga artist Inko and learn to draw manga with step-by-step instructions!

If you are you a young manga fan or interested in Japanese folktales and myths, then why not join one of two hands-on workshop in Manchester Central Library led by manga artist Inko to learn more about manga and discover the fascinating world of Japanese yokai – monsters/spirits from Japanese folklore. Inko will teach you step-by-step how to draw one of the most famous yokai characters, Kappa, in the manga style!
These workshops are a great chance to learn more about manga and manga drawing skills, Japanese myths and stories, and ask questions to a professional manga artist. All materials will be provided on the day, and you don’t need to have any experience to join in; all levels of drawing skill are welcome!
Please note that these workshops are for young people aged 12-18 only. If you are booking on behalf of someone, you will be required to provide the name and age for each participant that you book for.
Book a free place on the first session 12.30-1.30pm here: Japanese Manga Drawing Workshop (Manchester) for ages 12-18 Tickets, Saturday, Mar 21 from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm | Eventbrite
Book a free place on the first session 2-3pm here: Japanese Manga Drawing Workshop (Manchester) for ages 12-18 Tickets, Saturday, Mar 21 from 2 pm to 3 pm | Eventbrite
If the sessions are sold out, you will be placed on waiting list and will be contacted if spaces become available.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Board Games Café
2026-03-25 17:00 - 19:00 | Ground Floor (Handling Tables)
Are you a wizard at Ticket to Ride? A fan of tableau building games? Join our free weekly boardgames sessions and enjoy 20% off in the library café! Whether you always wanted to try Carcassone, or whether you are a champ at backgammon or Trivial Pursuit, this is the place for you. Try new games, rediscover old favourites and make new friends. Open to all ages and abilities.
Free entry! Participants get 20% off in the library cafe.
Book your free place on Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Daria Chromik: Lunchtime Piano Concert
2026-03-26 13:00 - 14:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Acclaimed Polish pianist, Daria Chromik, will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library for a special lunchtime performance.

Presenting ‘Between Note and Emotion – Piano Recital’, the concert will offer a unique opportunity for audiences to hear the artist perform in this intimate setting for the first time.
Daria Chomik is a pianist with over 29 years of experience. Her performances take audiences on a journey through musical eras — from Chopin’s classics, through contemporary piano works, to film music including themes from Game of Thrones and “Experience” by Ludovico Einaudi*.
Daria enjoys exploring connections between styles, showing that every kind of music can be beautiful.

Short introductions during the concert provide context, highlight stylistic features, and guide listeners through an engaging and emotional musical experience.
Appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library of Central Library on 26th March, expect a breathtaking audience with this most sublime of pianists.

Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Storytime and Mindfulness for Children (4+ years)
2026-03-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us for this relaxing session led by Psychologist Özlem Bakan Yavaş. We will be reading stories and learning about feelings in a comfortable and safe environment. We will finish each session with a calming and mindful craft. Suitable for children aged 4+.
Book your free spot on Eventbrite here
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Little Movers and Shakers
2026-04-07 11:00 - 11:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
Calling all little groovers! Enjoy a fun, high-energy session filled with music and dance. Get ready to show off some moves – we’ll bring the tunes! Most suitable for under 4s.
Free entry – 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

Voices of the City
2026-04-08 08:00 - 2026-04-30 17:00 | Ground Floor (Oculus Area)
Voices of the City exhibition is a powerful and welcoming photography exhibition of a creative project which celebrated identity, belonging and community.
Created by Community Arts North West, the project brought together a group of diverse young people and adults to tell their stories by working with drama facilitator and physical theatre director, Julia Wilson of SmallActs theatre company, to explore character, costume and movement. Their journey was captured in striking photographs by Shirlaine Forrest (whose work includes photographing Taylor Swift, Stormzy and Billie Eilish).
Experience powerful photos, discover real stories, and enjoy the chance to see the city (and its young people) in a new way. The result is a unique, multi-generational exhibition full of energy, imagination and real voices from our city. You might recognise a face or even a bit of yourself.
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
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Plus, free launch event. Drop in to the Oculus Space on the ground floor on Wednesday 8 April, 1-3.30pm, for an informal launch with live music.
Stay for a relaxed Q&A (2 -3.30pm) in the Henry Watson Music Library on the first floor with young people, creative producer Michelle Udogu, and photographer Shirlaine Forrest.
Voices of the City is funded by BBC Children in Need and The Granada Foundation.
Photograph: Shirlaine Forrest

Gardening Club
2026-04-08 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-13 14:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Calling all budding gardeners! Get potting at our interactive session for the whole family. We’ll provide all the equipment you need for your gardening skills to bloom!
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

Nya the Train Dog: A Tale of Safety and Smiles
2026-04-10 11:30 - 12:30 | Children’s Library
Families are invited to Manchester City Centre Library for a special chance to meet Nya, the TransPennine Express therapy dog who has captured hearts across the rail network. She’ll be in the children’s section for strokes, cuddles and photos, and visitors can pick up a free copy of her brand-new children’s book. Nya the Train Dog: A Tale of Safety and Smiles is a warm, gentle story that introduces simple safeguarding and rail safety messages through Nya’s real-life adventures.
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

Knitting, Cross-stitch and Embroidery Group
2026-04-10 14:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join our new 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 one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online.

Meet the Manchester Titans!
2026-04-11 13:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us on the Lower Ground Floor of Manchester Central Library for an afternoon of fun and crafts provided by legendary American Football Club: Manchester Titans!
You might even get a chance to try on an American Football helmet and shoulder pads!
Open to all children, beginners + American Football pros welcome! Suitable for ages 6+.
Free entry – just drop in
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or here online

Matilda Inspired Family Library Workshops delivered by the Palace Theatre
2026-04-14 10:00 - 14:00 | Children’s Library
Come along and spend an hour with Phelps the librarian, a kind, wise librarian who LOVES stories. Phelps spends lots of time listening to the wild and wonderful tales Matilda creates and knows quite a bit about telling stories herself too – thank you very much! Phelps could use your imagination to help with the next story!
These workshops are interactive storytelling workshop held at Central Library, designed for primary school aged children and their families. There will be a facilitator in role as the character of Phelps. These sessions will last approximately an hour and are free to access but we recommend booking your places in advance to avoid disappointment.
Three sessions starting at at 10am, 11:15am and 1-2pm
Book your free place on Eventbrite here or ‘Book Now’ below

Cultural Masterplanning - How Manchester changed the way we make cities
2026-04-15 08:00 - 2026-09-26 17:00
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.
Showcased 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.
Citizen 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.
The 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.
The 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.
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

Hispanic Film Club: Mamá cumple 100 años
2026-04-15 17:45 - 19:45 | Performance Space
Manchester Central Library and the Instituto Cervantes of Manchester proudly present the Hispanic Film Club. Join us for this month’s film, Mamá cumple 100 años.
The Manchester Central Library and Instituto Cervantes Manchester present the Hispanic Film Club, a programme designed to celebrate the richness of Spanish-language cinema. This new series is dedicated to the acclaimed director Carlos Saura, one of the most influential figures in Spanish film, internationally recognised for his work exploring memory, identity and the relationship between art and society through a deeply personal and innovative aesthetic. Throughout his career, Saura received numerous awards and collaborated with renowned artists such as Geraldine Chaplin and Antonio Gades, leaving an indelible mark on world cinema.
The first three screenings will feature Elisa, vida mía (1977), Mamá cumple 100 años (1979) and Goya en Burdeos (1999), films that exemplify his ability to combine introspection, history and art in unique narratives. We have chosen Saura because his cinema offers a profound reflection on Spanish history and culture, perfectly aligned with the essence of the Hispanic Film Club: showcasing the diversity and depth of the Hispanic world through works that transcend borders.
This screening: Mamá cumple 100 años [Mama turns 100] (Carlos Saura, 1979).
Synopsis: Ana is alive and married with Antonio; they arrive in the manor in the countryside of Spain where she worked as a nanny many years ago, for the centennial birthday of the matriarch. In their reunion, she finds that Jose died three years ago; Juan left his wife Luchy; Fernando is still living with his mother and unsuccessfully trying to fly a hang glider; and the three little girls are grown-up. Further, she discovers that the dysfunctional family is completely broken, and Luchy in embezzling mother’s money. When Juan arrives for the celebration, he plots with Fernando and Luchy to kill the mother to get the inheritance. Meanwhile, Antonio has a brief affair with Natalia.
Suitable for ages 16+
Free – booking required via Eventbrite or click ‘Book now’ below
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

STEM Club
2026-04-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Put your lab coat and goggles on and join us for an interactive session that will get you excited about science! Expect spectacular hands-on experiments and lots of fun! Suitable for ages 6-11.
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

嘢嘢YardYard: DJ workshop & live show
2026-04-16 17:00 - 19:45 | Henry Watson Music Library
YardYard will be launching their event series “Pendulum世界术” with a debut programme at Henry Watson Music Library of Central Library.

Kicking off the series will be a special interactive DJ workshop, experimental live set, and high energy DJ set.
In their first event outside of London in the UK, the rising creative arts collective will be connecting with the Manchester music scene for the first time.
Featuring a free drop-in DJ deck session for all adventurous and curious ears, you are invited to tune into the generous in-house heritage 808 DJ deck, with two open-ear Chinese DJs. A multilingual workshop, this innovative session will offer support for rising DJs of all abilities in both English and Chinese.
After the workshop, three talents will be sharing a snapshot of their current sonic world and artistic direction with two live acts. These will include an experimental live set from Yewen Jin and YUNA阿尘, plus an audio-visual DJ set from tongktongktong.
The “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.
SET TIMES
17:00-18:00 – DJ Workshop Drop In
18:10-18:50 – Yewen Jin and YUNA阿尘
19:00-19:40 – tongktongktong.
Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

People as Infrastructure: The Architectural Wisdom of Informality
2026-04-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Performance Space
Join us for Manchester Confucius Institute’s first public talk of the year, launching our anniversary exhibition, Building China: People’s Infrastructure.
Explore the spontaneous and ingenious adaptations found in China’s urban marketplaces, where everyday materials become functional art. This talk delves into the world of informal architectural practices that thrive without formal design processes, reflecting a bottom-up creativity that challenges our conventional views on sustainability and technology in building. We’ll discuss how these grassroots innovations might teach us new ways to think about architecture and urban infrastructure.
After the talk, there will be an opportunity to visit the Manchester Confucius Institute’s 20th anniversary exhibition, Building China: People’s Infrastructure, on the Lower Ground Floor of the Central Library (exhibited from 1 March until 30 May 2026).
Free – booking required via Eventbrite here or via the ‘Book Now’ button below
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About the speaker:
Ziqiu Ren is a spatial filmmaker and architectural researcher. Her research is established at the intersection of urban studies, ethnographic theories, and creative media. She is currently a PhD Candidate in Architecture at the University of Manchester, working on Chinese food marketplaces, supported by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). She is an associated researcher at the Urban Studies Lab.
he Manchester Confucius Institute Public Talk Series
Manchester Confucius Institute public talks are free, informal and informative lectures aimed at anyone with an interest in Chinese culture and language.
Find out more about the Manchester Confucius Institute

Spring Crafts
2026-04-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Lower Ground Floor
Join us at Central Library for a spring-themed craft session suitable for families. All materials provided, just bring your creativity! Suitable for ages 5-11.
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

Family Film Club
2026-04-18 13:00 - 16:00 | Performance Space
Enjoy a special edition of the Central Library’s legendary Family Film Club! Bring the family for an afternoon of themed crafts and a family classic on the library’s huge screen. Screenings start at 1.30pm – drop in from 1pm. Most suitable for under 12s.
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
2026-04-22 18:00 - 19:30
Crime Central is the monthly crime and thriller fiction event at Manchester Central Library.

APRIL’S BUMPER GUEST AUTHORS ARE ISABELLE BROOM, LUCY ANDREW, HEIDI AMSINCK AND JAMIE WEST!!
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.
Tickets are ‘pay what you can’ and range from £2 to £6 plus booking fee.

BIG BOOK QUIZ!
2026-04-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Performance Space
Celebrate World Book Night with us!

It’s World Book Night, so how could you miss the ultimate book quiz at Central Library.
Join us for an evening celebrating your love of reading with quizzes, party games, prizes and the odd surprise challenge! Our cafe will also be open serving snacks, cakes and a range of coffees, beer and wine all evening.
Tickets available here!!

Northern Publisher's Fair
2026-04-25 11:00 - 15:30 | Performance Space
The Northern Publishers’ Fair returns this autumn with its biggest celebration yet of independent publishing.
Organised bi-annually by Fly on the Wall Press, this free-entry event will showcase the diverse landscape of independent publishing across the North, featuring 16 publishers and literary agents spanning genres from literary fiction and poetry to children’s books and non-fiction. Attendees can browse and purchase books directly from publishers including Manchester University Press, Valley Press and Flapjack Press, among others.
Who is the Northern Publishers’ Fair for?
For too long, the publishing industry has been London-centric. In 2019, Isabelle Kenyon (Fly on the Wall Press) set up the Northern Publishers’ Fair at the fabulous venue of Manchester Central Library. Each Spring, independent and trade publishers from the North of England gather to sell books, network with the future generation of publishers, and meet writers and readers. With space for reading and coffee, the fair is the perfect place to grab a book that offers something different to mainstream bookshop offerings, and a fab place to get an idea of just what the North has to offer. We welcome families, students and readers to come be part of the fun. We invite traditional publishers to showcase their latest authors and their work and we collaborate with partners around the city, such as Manchester Literature Festival to bring northern talent to a larger stage.
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

Taliesin - Puppet Theatre Performance and Puppet Making Workshop
2026-04-25 14:00 - 15:45 | Children’s Library
Join us at Manchester Central Library for a story of magic, shape shifting and an epic chase – with puppets!

Puppet theatre performance, 2-3pm
Puppet making workshop: 3-3:45pm

Most suitable for ages 5+, but for the whole family to enjoy.
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.
