Our latest first-floor exhibition comes courtesy of the team currently working on the Our Town Hall Project to repair, renovate and refurbish Manchester's iconic Town Hall. Extraordinarily little is known about the artisans who built the Town Hall between 1868 and 1877, and certainly no photographs exist. But fast-forward 150 years and today’s skilled workers […]
In partnership with Create, disabled and non-disabled students from Manchester and Salford schools come together to create, build connections and break down barriers. Working with top class musicians they will write and perform original songs on the theme of JOY at this celebratory event presented by Manchester Literature Festival and supported by Library Live. Email miriam@manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk for […]
Two masters of folk horror join us to discuss their chilling, atmospheric new books, both set in a single location over a significant period of time. The Hotel by Daisy Johnson begins with a hotel built on a possessed plot of land - its origins evident when a woman is accused of witchcraft – and […]
Acclaimed poet and creative facilitator Francesca Beard will lead a workshop inspired by the work of cult writer Philip K Dick (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?). In this playful, hands-on session, participants will use poetic and improvisational story-telling techniques to create text that explores big philosophical questions such as ‘What does it mean to […]
Join us for a rare screening of the 1994 Arena documentary A Day in The Afterlife about cult author Philip K Dick (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?). Afterwards, see writers Kate Feld, David Hartley and Irenosen Okojie discuss his speculative / science fiction and imagination. Poet Francesca Beard will also perform a new commission inspired by his […]
Get creative at our free craft activities inspired by Black History Month. Artist Tina Ramos Ekongo and musician Johanna Leung will help you do some mindful painting to music. This workshop is suitable for families and lasts two hours. All materials are provided. Free - no booking required Please make a donation to support our […]
Who said that science can’t be fun? Join our science-inspired activities for half term. You will make balloon rockets and find out how strong paper can be! Free, just drop in. Suitable for families. Free – just drop in. For more information email angela.rawcliffe@manchester.gov.uk Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme […]
Looking for a fun Saturday activity for the whole family? Look no further. Join our engaging Saturday half-term session. Expect music, crafts, and lots of fun! Suitable for children of all ages. Free - just drop in. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless […]
We're getting ready to welcome little spooks and ghouls to a very creepy Central Library for a fun-filled family Halloween spectacular. Are you brave enter the world of fearsome face-painters, spooky silent discos, creepy crafts, torturous treats and sinister surprises? £12.50 family ticket. Sorry, no unaccompanied adults allowed.
Visit this latest exhibition showcasing items from our unique archive, including playbills, programmes, posters and other memorabilia, dating from the 18th century to the present day and documenting the vibrant history of theatre in Manchester. Free - just drop in. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our […]
Word Central Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word. Presented by Flapjack Press and Manchester Libraries. Hosted by Tony Curry with special guest Oliver James Lomax. Tuesday 29th October, 6.00pm – 7.45pm. Doors open 5.40pm and free entry. October’s special guest Oliver James Lomax is a poet, educator and trustee of Salford’s Working-Class Movement Library, whose poems are […]
Rob Parker and Manchester Libraries invite you to a CRIME CENTRAL SPOOKTACULAR!! With Jo Callaghan, Graeme Cumming and Steve Kedie! 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 […]
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.
