What's on

Manchester Animation Festival 2025

Join us as we host activities for the UK’s largest Animation Festival, dedicated to celebrating the animated art form. The festival brings one of the UK’s biggest animation hubs together with the international community to delight in all things animated. We’ll also have exclusive talks and signings with the MAF book club! Mon 10 Nov, […]

Full Volume Podcast: Tynah Matembe + Cole Stacey

In its penultimate edition of 2025, Full Volume is back with another treasure trove of library-related gold. This month, host Alan Lynch sits down with award-winning money coach, global speaker and passionate advocate for financial inclusion: Tynah Matembe. As part of Manchester Libraries’ Black History Month celebrations, Tynah popped by to offer some top money […]

NEW! 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 […]

Recurring

Teen Book Club

Teen Library (Lower Ground Floor)

Age 13 -16 and love books? Want to read more and chat about books? Join Central Library Teen Book Club! Discover your next favourite read, share recommendations and join book themed activities. Free - just drop in

French Storytime

Children's Library

Join us for French Storytime to listen to stories in French and English, learn new words and make new friends!. Suitable for children aged 4-7 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

Recurring

Keeping Our Stories Alive: A Community Archiving Starter Kit

AIU Race Relations Centre

Join us for two hands-on workshops designed to give you the skills to collect, preserve, and share the stories that matter most. 🗣️ Keeping Our Stories Alive: A Community Archiving Starter Kit Dates: Saturday 8th & Saturday 15th November 2025 Time: 1:30 pm start Location: Ahmed Iqbal Ullah RACE Centre & Education Trust, Central Library, Manchester Tickets: Free — Book […]

Cole Stacey – Live

Performance Space

Cole Stacey performs his debut album live in the magnificent Manchester Central Library, part of a series of 5 concerts in truly remarkable places. Immerse yourself in this remarkable space in the heart of Manchester, for one of five unique concerts with Cole Stacey as he presents his critically acclaimed debut album Postcards From Lost […]

Electronic Sound Past, Present and Future: Delia Derbyshire Day 2025

Performance Space

The tenth anniversary of Manchester-based charity Delia Derbyshire Day celebrates the unique work and legacy of this electronic music pioneer. Join us for an array of family-friendly creative activities. Be inspired, play with weird and wonderful sounds, and experience new artworks that reflect this fascinating heritage. Delia’s most famous work was the original Doctor Who theme […]

Mystery International Film Screening

Performance Space

Welcome to the seventh edition of Manchester Central Library’s International Film Club’s Mystery Screening series. This event is for individuals aged 15 and over. Event Details: • Doors open: 17:00 • Introduction to the film: 17:20 • Film starts: 17:30• Entry: Pay what you can (recommended donation of £3) • Popcorn: FREE! • Drinks: Grab […]

Word Central

Performance Space

Word Central Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word. Presented by Flapjack Press and Manchester Libraries. Hosted by Tony Curry with special guest Kieren King. Book your open mic slot from noon on Tuesday 11th November via mail@flapjackpress.co.uk. N.B. Open mic slots are 3 minutes per performer, it is essential that you stay within this timeframe. Performance […]

Recurring

Boardgames Club

Join our free weekly boardgames sessions! Try new games, rediscover old favourites and make new friends. Open to all ages and abilities. Boardgames provided - just bring yourself. Free, no need to book – just drop in Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless […]

Crime Central

Performance Space

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 […]