Greater Manchester has an amazing legacy of alternative and community newspapers from the 1970s - offering us a window into the everyday issues, groups, places, events and organising efforts of the time - yet they are often overlooked or rarely known about today. Many have limited or almost no online presence making them hard to […]
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 […]
Sanctuary movements have long been a part of the movement for migrant rights in Britain, but the meaning of sanctuary and the forms it has taken have varied dramatically. This event brings together scholars and practitioners of sanctuary, past and present, to discuss its history, trajectories, current forms, and possible futures in this country. Hosted […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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
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
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 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 […]
Photographer Tracey Welch and five musicians from diverse musical backgrounds come together in an exploration of photography and music. A fascinating collaborative project and exhibition, inspiring new connections, shared experience and experimental composition. In 2022, photography and music came together in the Stroboscopic Project, an exploration of photographic technique and musical inspiration. Such was its […]
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.
