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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260923T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260923T193000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260826T104304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T101602Z
UID:14479-1790186400-1790191800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Crime Central
DESCRIPTION:Calling all Crime Fiction fans… \n\n\n\n\nNot long now until the next Crime Central!!\nThis month\, Rob Parker is welcoming Remi Kone\, Alis Hawkins and MRG Davies to Central Library!\n\n\n\n\n\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.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/crime-central-27/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Crime-Central-logo.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260924T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260924T200000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260813T082835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T083426Z
UID:14316-1790272800-1790280000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Generations of Love: A Queer Up North Panel Event
DESCRIPTION:Join Manchester Histories and Queer Up North for a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring how queer culture can build community\, connect generations and sustain radical creative practice. Reflecting on the legacy of Queer Up North\, the conversation will consider what the festival built\, what it inherited\, and what we can learn from it today. The panel will also explore how we can maintain spaces for transgressive\, experimental work and radical queer practice in an increasingly commercial world. \nChaired by John E. McGrath\, the discussion features Gavin Barlow\, Dr Phoebe Patey-Ferguson and Claud Cunningham\, bringing together artists\, producers and cultural leaders to reflect on the past\, present and future of queer culture. \nBook your free tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/generations-of-love-a-queer-up-north-panel-event/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/54782600808_90b82ae80a_c.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260926T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260926T150000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260901T135839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T121927Z
UID:14500-1790427600-1790434800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Saturday Afternoon Fever!
DESCRIPTION:We’re celebrating ‘Older Peoples Day’ with a special Saturday afternoon singalong with the brilliant Dee Dee Allen! \nWe’re inviting local community groups for over 55’s to get your dancing shoes on for an afternoon full of classic tracks from the 70’s to the 90’s! \nPlaces are free but limited so please phone Central Library on 0161 234 1932 to book a table for your group. Hot drinks and cake will also be served during the afternoon. Our Central Library cafe will also be open offering a range of sandwiches and hot meals to purchase.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/saturday-afternoon-fever/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Saturday-afternoon-fever-banner.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260930T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260930T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260910T104858Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T104858Z
UID:14646-1790755200-1790787600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Talk: Schinkel in Manchester 1826-2026
DESCRIPTION:An evening with staff of the Manchester School of Architecture celebrating the 1826 visit to  Manchester of the Prussian architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel which will include discussion of the making of architectural models of buildings in Manchester and Berlin\, an exploration of the influence of his visit and an opportunity to play Schinkel Bingo. \nFree – please 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/talk-schinkel-in-manchester-1826-2026/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_7567-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261003T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261003T160000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260907T141231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260907T141231Z
UID:14619-1791036000-1791043200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Fun Palaces
DESCRIPTION:Get ready to celebrate Fun Palaces weekend at Central Library with a whole afternoon dedicated to the Mid-Autumn Festival\, one of the most important festivals in the Chinese calendar! \nJoin us for an afternoon of traditional Chinese music\, interactive workshops and lantern-making with Manchester Confucius Institute and Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music. \nProgramme: \n2-4pm – Mooncake seal carving with Manchester Confucius Institute \nJoin us for an interactive workshop where we will be making mooncake seals using carrots and potatoes. Suitable for families. Alternative options available for younger children. \n2–2.10 pm – Chinese bamboo flute performance with Chinese Music Classroom \nShort performance on the dizi (Chinese bamboo flute)\, followed by a brief\, child-friendly introduction to the instrument. \n2.10–2.35 pm – Participatory music activity with Chinese Music Classroom \nJoin us for a simple group activity inspired by Kodály approaches and led by a Chinese music specialist using rhythm\, clapping\, call-and-response and easy pentatonic patterns. Designed for children and families of all abilities\, no previous musical experience required. \n2.35–3.50 pm – Mid-Autumn Festival craft activity with Chinese Music Classroom \nRelaxed drop-in craft activity\, where children and families can make small handheld Mid-Autumn lanterns featuring moon and Jade Rabbit designs to take home with them. \n3.50–4.00 pm – Musical close \nShort bamboo flute performance and informal sharing of some of the lanterns made during the afternoon. \nSuitable for families. \nFree – 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/fun-palaces-3/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Family
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fun-Palaces-Mid-Autumn-Festival-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261005T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261005T200000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260904T140606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260921T143334Z
UID:14538-1791208800-1791230400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Civic Week Centenary 1926-2026
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Manchester’s Civic Week with a spectacular showcase of the best of our city’s heritage as industrial powerhouse and modern icon of global communities! \nDiscover the History of Civic Week 1926 – 2026  Archives Exhibition (Ground Floor) \n125 years of Manchester Tramways exhibition – explore the history of Manchester’s electric tramways from 1901 to the present day. (First Floor stairs) \nCivic Week Celebration schedule (Performance Space): \n2pm – Lord Mayor’s Welcome \n2-5pm – Civic Week Fair including film shows\, Our Town Hall\, Manchester Family History\, Threads of a City tapestry project\, and lots more! Plus free light refreshments \n2.20pm – Who Lived in the Town Hall? – short talk by John Henshall \n3-4pm – Understanding Place and Communities creative workshop with Aiden Jolly\, Manchester Histories \n3-4pm – Make your own Manchester Doll to take home! (Children aged 8yrs+ ) \n6.30pm – A City Speaks 1946 –film & talk by North West Film Archive \n\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/civic-week-centenary-1926-2026/
LOCATION:Performance Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/1926-badge.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261006T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261006T193000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260728T133548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T104546Z
UID:14217-1791311400-1791315000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Can't Get You Out Of My Head: In Search of Kylie - Michael Cragg in conversation
DESCRIPTION:Kylie Minogue is one of the world’s most successful pop stars\, and in his new book\, Can’t Get You Out of My Head\, music journalist Michael Cragg takes us on a hugely entertaining journey from her early days on Ramsey Street to her current status as global icon. We’re thrilled to be welcoming Michael to Manchester Central Library on Tuesday 6th October when he’ll be chatting all things Kylie! The talk will be followed by an audience Q&A and booksigning. \nTickets are £6.00 each or £25.00 including a copy of Can’t Get You Out of My Head \nEvent starts at 6:30pm (doors at 6pm) \nAbout the book: \nFrom her late-eighties beginnings – capturing our hearts as Charlene in Neighbours – to her gold-plated hits like ‘Spinning Around’ and ‘Padam Padam’ soundtracking the euphoria of dancefloors the world over\, Kylie Minogue is a modern-day icon. But\, having sold over eighty-million records internationally and becoming the bestselling Australian pop star of all time\, who is the ‘real’ Kylie? And how has she remained a mystery while also navigating a forty-year career in the fickle world of pop? \nPop-academic and award-winning writer Michael Cragg takes us on a journey into the psyche of one of the world’s most enigmatic pop stars. Via a mix of brand new interviews\, a dash of oral history and some joyfully irreverent music writing\, Can’t Get You Out of My Head aims to put the puzzle pieces together. \n“Michael Cragg is the greatest chronicler of modern pop and he has found the perfect subject. Any story that takes in Neighbours\, Nick Cave and Pete Waterman needs to be told this well” – Josh Widdicombe \n“Cragg investigates the beautiful enigma that is Kylie\, interweaving pin-sharp journalism\, personal experience and a deeply held belief in the power and wonder of perfect pop. Funny\, clever and touching\, this book is a delight” – Miranda Sawyer \nAbout the author: \nMichael Cragg is a journalist and author from London. His work has appeared in the Guardian\, the Observer\, Vogue\, i-D\, GQ\, BEAT\, Popjustice\, the BBC\, Out and the Sunday Times. His first book\, Reach For The Stars\, an oral history of 90s and 00s UK pop\, won the Penderyn Music Book Prize in 2024. Keen to focus on pop artistes that perhaps haven’t always received the recognition they deserve\, his second book\, Can’t Get You Out of My Head: In Search of Kylie\, is about the diminutive Australian hitmaker. During his tenure at the pop coalface he’s interviewed the likes of Lady Gaga\, Miley Cyrus\, Rosalía\, Björk\, Little Mix\, Britney Spears\, Robbie Williams and Robyn.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/cant-get-you-out-of-my-head-in-search-of-kylie-michael-cragg-in-conversation/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Book Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/SERENITY-BOOKSELLERS-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261010T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261010T203000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260622T084953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T085139Z
UID:13917-1791658800-1791664200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Emily St. John Mandel
DESCRIPTION:Bestselling Canadian author Emily St. John Mandel joins us to discuss her electrifying new novel Exit Party – exploring parallel worlds\, political unrest and blurred realities.   \nIn a near-future Los Angeles emerging from conflict\, Ari Walker and her friend Gloria are going to a party.  But the party becomes the site of something inexplicable\, drawing Ari into a mystery that will haunt her across decades and continents. Elegant\, suspenseful and emotionally charged\, Exit Party explores memory\, freedom\, art and the fragile boundaries between realities.   \nEmily St. John Mandel blends literary fiction with speculative suspense in the unforgettable style that made Station Eleven an international success. Hosted by Andrew McMillan.   \nEmily St. John Mandel is the internationally acclaimed author of seven novels\, including The Glass Hotel\, Sea of Tranquility and Station Eleven\, winner of the Arthur C. Clarke Award and adapted into a celebrated television series on HBO Max. Her work has been translated into 34 languages.   \nA Manchester Literature Festival event.  \nTickets £12 / £10  \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-emily-st-john-mandel/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Emily_SJM_Portraits3132finalflatsquarecroppreview-LL-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261012T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261012T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T094349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T094531Z
UID:14379-1791792000-1791824400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Ian McMillan
DESCRIPTION:Beloved poet\, broadcaster and performer Ian McMillan launches his moving and inventive new collection Red River Valley. Drawing on family life\, everyday absurdities and the impact of austerity on the South Yorkshire village where he has lived all his life\, Ian creates poems that are funny\, poignant and full of humanity.   \nRenowned for his warmth\, wit and extraordinary live readings\, he brings language vividly to life on the page and on stage. Join one of Britain’s most treasured poets for a celebration of storytelling\, community and the power of words.   \n‘World-class – one of today’s greatest poetry performers’ Carol Ann Duffy  \nHosted by Becky Swain.   \nA Manchester Literature Festival event co-presented with Manchester Poetry Library at Manchester Metropolitan University. Supported by Library Live.  \nIan McMillan was born in Barnsley. He published his first Carcanet book of poems\, The Changing Problem\, in 1980. His collections include Selected Poems (a Poetry Book Society Recommendation)\, I Found this Shirt and To Fold the Evening Star. He has hosted The Verb\, BBC Radio 4’s arts programme since 2002\, and been Barnsley Football Club’s poet-in-residence and Yorkshire TV’s Investigative Poet. \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-ian-mcmillan/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Ian-McMillan-PHOTO-Jody-Moore-Bolder-Visual-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261013T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261013T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T102807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T102807Z
UID:14388-1791878400-1791910800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Frank Cottrell-Boyce
DESCRIPTION:Beloved author\, screenwriter and Waterstones Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce brings his trademark wit and warmth to a moving conversation about books\, imagination and the stories that shape our lives.   \nInspired by his new non-fiction book\, A British Childhood\, as well as many of his own favourite reads\, Frank reflects on what it means to grow up in Britain today\, sharing stories gathered from children\, families\, schools and libraries across the country\, who have grown up in the shadow of Covid and austerity. Along the way\, he’ll celebrate the books that have inspired him\, champion the importance of reading and share why storytelling remains one of the most powerful and essential gifts we can give children.  \n“Frank Cottrell-Boyce is truly a great champion for children and childhood… No home\, no school\, and especially no library should be without this story and this book.”  Michael Morpurgo  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nFrank Cottrell-Boyce is one of Britain’s most acclaimed writers for children\, whose bestselling novels include Millions\, Cosmic\, Framed and The Astounding Broccoli Boy. Waterstones Children’s Laureate from 2024 – 2026\, he is also an award-winning screenwriter whose work includes Doctor Who\, Kensuke’s Kingdom and\, with Danny Boyle\, the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics. Expect wit\, warmth\, insight and plenty of memorable book recommendations. \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-frank-cottrell-boyce/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Frank-Cottrell-Boyce-photo-credit-Rich-Barr-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261015T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261015T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T103747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T103747Z
UID:14394-1792051200-1792083600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Louise Kennedy & Wendy Erskine
DESCRIPTION:Two of Northern Ireland’s most acclaimed\, contemporary authors\, Louise Kennedy and Wendy Erskine\, join BBC 6 Music broadcaster Deb Grant for an unmissable conversation about storytelling and identity.   \nLouise Kennedy (Trespasses) introduces Stations\, one of the most anticipated novels of 2026\, a moving and immersive story of first love\, friendship\, freedom and reinvention that spans decades and explores the choices that echo throughout our lives.   \nWendy Erskine (Dance Move) discusses The Benefactors\, her Women’s Fiction Prize-longlisted novel: a bold\, darkly funny and razor-sharp examination of class\, power\, motherhood and social exclusion in contemporary Northern Ireland.  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nLouise Kennedy is the bestselling author of Trespasses\, winner of multiple awards including Debut Fiction Book of the Year at the British Book Awards\, and the acclaimed short-story collection The End of the World Is a Cul de Sac.   \nWendy Erskine is the award-winning author of Sweet Home and Dance Move\, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature\, broadcaster and interviewer and works as a secondary school teacher in Belfast.  \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-louise-kennedy-wendy-erskine/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Louise-Kennedy-photo-credit-Alexis-Kirschbaum-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261016T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261016T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T104451Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T104451Z
UID:14402-1792137600-1792170000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Carolyn Forché & Kwame Dawes
DESCRIPTION:Don’t miss this opportunity to hear two of the world’s most visionary poets read and discuss their sublime poetry\, exploring political engagement and the interplay between survival and testimony.  \nOver five decades\, American poet Carolyn Forché has established herself as both ‘a poet of witness’ and an indefatigable human rights activist. Beautifully crafted\, her poems are testimonies\, enquiries and wonderments. Her anthology\, Against Forgetting\, has been praised by Nelson Mandela as ‘itself a blow against tyranny\, against prejudice\, against injustice.’ Otherwise: New & Selected Poems 1976-2026 brings together poems from her five award-winning collections as well as urgent new work.  \nKwame Dawes is the author of numerous books of poetry\, essays and works of fiction\, most recently the collection Sturge Town featuring poems of acute self-reflection alongside those giving voice to invented characters. He is the Poet Laureate of Jamaica\, the Artistic Director of the Calabash International Literary Festival and Professor of Literary Arts at Brown University. His poetry has been described by Martin Espada as ‘the music of survival and transcendence.’  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event co-presented with Manchester Poetry Library\, Bloodaxe Books and Renaissance One. Supported by Library Live.  \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-carolyn-forche-kwame-dawes/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Kwame-Dawes-photo-©-Chris-Abani-scaled-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261017T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261017T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T105038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T105206Z
UID:14409-1792224000-1792256400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Brutalist Ghost Stories
DESCRIPTION:An afternoon exploring the supernatural with writers Jenn Ashworth\, David Gaffney\, Beth Barker and Nicholas Royle – four contributors to Brutalist Ghost Stories\, a haunting new anthology inspired by Britain’s post-war architecture.   \nBlending literary fiction with the uncanny\, these original stories reimagine Brutalist buildings as places where history\, memory and the supernatural collide. From Preston Bus Station and the Barbican to Forton Service Station and a substation in Sheffield\, the collection offers a striking new way of seeing familiar spaces.   \nHear readings from the anthology and discover how four distinctive Northern voices have transformed these monumental settings into unforgettable ghost stories.  \nBrutalist Ghost Stories is edited by Richard V. Hirst and published by Manchester’s Cōnfingō Publishing.  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nJenn Ashworth is an award-winning novelist whose books include A Kind of Intimacy\, Fell and Ghosted. Her memoir Notes Made While Falling was shortlisted for the Gordon Burn Prize. She lives in Lancashire.   \nDavid Gaffney is a novelist and short story writer whose books include Never Never\, Out of the Dark and Sawn-Off Tales. His work has been appeared on BBC Radio 4. He lives in Manchester.  \nBeth Barker is a writer from Blackpool. Her work has appeared in publications including Prototype 5 and A Wild and Precious Life. She is one of the emerging voices supported through the New North strand of Brutalist Ghost Stories.  \nNicholas Royle is an acclaimed novelist and short story writer whose books include First Novel\, Antwerp and Ornithology. He is the editor of Best British Short Stories and founder of Nightjar Press.  \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-brutalist-ghost-stories/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/1021014.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261018T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261018T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T110312Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T110312Z
UID:14421-1792310400-1792342800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Simon Armitage: Gilgamesh
DESCRIPTION:The Poet Laureate Simon Armitage returns to present his exhilarating new verse translation of Gilgamesh\, one of the world’s oldest and most compelling\, surviving works of literature. \nOriginating in ancient Mesopotamia nearly 4\,000 years ago\, this epic tale follows King Gilgamesh through adventures\, battles and profound personal loss. The poem explores themes that remain strikingly relevant today: power\, friendship\, love\, loss and what it means to be human. \nA Festival favourite and outstanding live performer\, Simon brings fresh energy and momentum to this ancient story\, capturing its emotional depth and relevance. See him live in what promises to be\, an uplifting journey into the very origins of storytelling. \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live. \nSimon Armitage was born in West Yorkshire and is Professor of Poetry at the University of Leeds. An award-winning poet\, translator\, broadcaster and musician\, he has published over twenty poetry collections and is the author of acclaimed translations including Sir Gawain and the Green Knight\, Pearl and The Owl and the Nightingale. He is the current Poet Laureate (2019-2029). \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-simon-armitage-gilgamesh/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Armitage-Simon_credit-Paul-Stuart-Photography-Ltd-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261019T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261019T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T111053Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T111358Z
UID:14426-1792396800-1792429200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Willy Vlautin
DESCRIPTION:Join acclaimed musician\, songwriter and novelist Willy Vlautin for a special evening celebrating his powerful new novel\, The Left and the Lucky. Set in Portland\, Oregon\, the novel tells the story of Eddie\, a solitary house painter\, and Russell\, the vulnerable small neighbour who slowly changes his life. Heart wrenching yet uplifting\, The Left and the Lucky is a testament to kindness\, survival and human connection.   \nOne of America’s most distinctive chroniclers of working-class life\, Willy started writing stories and songs at the age of eleven after receiving his first guitar. He joins us to discuss unlikely friendships\, human connection and his commitment to telling working class stories through his work. Don’t miss an evening with one of contemporary fiction’s most charismatic and humane voices.   \n“One of America’s great writers” Roddy Doyle   \n“Willy Vlautin is one of the bravest novelists writing. Murderers\, cheats\, sadists\, showy examples of the banality of evil\, are easy\, but it takes real courage to write a novel about ordinary good people.” Ursula K. Le Guin  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nWilly Vlautin is the acclaimed author of seven novels\, including The Horse\, winner of the 2025 Joyce Carol Oates Award. His novels The Motel Life and Lean on Pete became acclaimed films\, while The Night Always Comes was adapted by Netflix in 2025. Born in Reno\, Nevada\, he lives near Portland\, Oregon and teaches at Pacific University’s MFA in Writing programme. He is the founder of the bands Richmond Fontaine and The Delines.  \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-willy-vlautin/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Willy-Vlautin-photo-credit-Bobby-Abrahamson.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261020T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261020T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T112004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T112004Z
UID:14431-1792483200-1792515600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents M. John Harrison
DESCRIPTION:Spend an evening with one of Britain’s greatest contemporary writers as M. John Harrison discusses his remarkable new novel\, The End of Everything\, with acclaimed writer Helen Mort.   \nSet in a fractured near-future where Europe has been mislaid\, governments barely function and mysterious new life forms emerge from the sea\, this unsettling and darkly funny novel follows a scavenger and his aunt – each drawn into separate journeys that challenges everything they think they know.   \nExpect a provocative and wide-ranging discussion about imagination\, literature and how we navigate a world where crisis has become the backdrop to everyday life.   \n‘M John Harrison is the closest thing we have to a present-day Wyndham or Ballard.’ New Statesman   \n‘The End of Everything is at once surreal\, seductive\, shrewdly funny and wholly terrifying.‘ Julia Armfield  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nJohn Harrisonis the author of more than twenty books\, including the celebratedViriconium sequence\, Light\, The Centauri Device and The Sunken Land Begins to Rise Again. Regarded as one of Britain’s most influential contemporary writers\, he has received numerous awards and written science fiction\, fantasy and speculative fiction.  His anti-memoir\, Wish I Was Here\, was described as a masterpiece and ‘a deep dive into the mind of a genius’ by Monique Roffey.   \nHelen Mort is a Sheffield based poet\, novelist\, non-fiction writer and creative writing lecturer.   \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-m-john-harrison/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/M-John-Harrison-credit-Hugo-Glendinning-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261021T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261021T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T123941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T124027Z
UID:14439-1792569600-1792602000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Lady Hale & Lara Feigel
DESCRIPTION:Lady Hale\, the first female President of the UK Supreme Court and author of the Women’s Prize longlisted With the Law on Our Side\, joins acclaimed writer Lara Feigel\, author of Custody: The Secret History of Mothers\, for a compelling conversation on law\, family and power.   \nDrawing on real cases and lived testimony\, Lady Hale opens up the legal system with clarity and humanity\, revealing how people experience the law and question where justice lies.   \nLara Feigel explores child custody through the lives of real women who challenged convention and fought for greater freedom and justice\, revealing how motherhood\, power and the law have shaped both family life and feminist progress.  \nTogether they will have a lively conversation about how justice is experienced by children\, mothers and families across history and today.  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event co-presented with the Centre for New Writing and Creative Manchester. Sponsored by Weightmans. Supported by Library Live.  \nLady Hale was the first woman to serve on the UK Supreme Court and its first female President. A pioneering legal figure\, she championed landmark reforms in family and disability law.  \nLara Feigel is the author of four highly acclaimed works of cultural history and a novel. She reviews regularly for the Guardian and contributes to a range of BBC radio programmes.  \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-lady-hale-lara-feigel/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Lara-Feigel-PHOTO-credit-Johnny-Ring-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261022T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261022T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T124500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T124527Z
UID:14446-1792656000-1792688400@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Hernan Diaz
DESCRIPTION:See Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hernan Diaz (Trust) discuss his brilliant new novel Ply. Set centuries from now\, Ply follows an orphan in a city on the brink of profound change\, drawn into an underground world of art\, music and risk – and a discovery that could reshape reality. A novel of ideas built from a story of people\, it blends Dickensian odyssey\, family drama and scientific thriller to explore selfhood\, connection and the distance between us and those we love.  \nRecently featured on Dua Lipa’s Service95 Book Club\, Hernan Diaz’s work continues to inspire readers worldwide. Don’t miss this unforgettable conversation with one of contemporary fiction’s most visionary voices.  \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nHernan Diaz was born in Argentina\, grew up in Sweden and now lives in New York. His acclaimed novels include Trust and In the Distance. Trust is currently being developed as a limited series for HBO\, and it has been named one of the New York Times’s Best 100 Books of the 21st Century. His work has been translated into thirty-seven languages.    \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-hernan-diaz/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/HERNAN-DIAZ-photo-copyright-Pascal-Perich-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261023T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261023T150000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T124950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T124950Z
UID:14453-1792760400-1792767600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Writing Creative Non-Fiction with Dave Haslam
DESCRIPTION:Dave Haslam\, author of the memoir Sonic Youth Slept on My Floor and books including My Second Home: Sylvia Plath in Paris\, 1956\, leads us through strategies to express a true story or life events in a way that incorporates imagination\, subjectivity\, novelistic elements\, and unconventional structures. The workshop is aimed at aspiring and early career writers and will include a study of works by the likes of Tom Wolfe and Deborah Levy.   \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nDave is an author\, broadcaster and DJ based in Manchester. His books include Manchester England\, Life After Dark and the forthcoming Creative Journeys\, drawing on four decades of conversations with some of the most compelling voices in music\, literature\, film and art.  His Art Decades series includes A Life in Thirty-Five Boxes: How I Survived Selling My Record Collection; We the Youth: Keith Haring’s New York Nightlife and Strawberry and the Big Apple: Grace Jones in Stockport\, 1980.    \nBook tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-writing-creative-non-fiction-with-dave-haslam/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4793-Writing-Creative-Non-Fiction-with-Dave-Haslam-Landscape.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261024T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261024T143000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260820T125915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T140524Z
UID:14456-1792837800-1792852200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Literature Festival presents Little Reads Family Day
DESCRIPTION:Take part in a joyful day of stories\, theatre\, music\, dancing\, crafts and family fun. Help create some magical shoes with The Elves and the Shoemaker in an interactive show from Peoplescape Theatre\, packed with music\, puppetry\, clowning and storytelling. Strut your stuff with author and West End musical theatre star Robert Tregoning in a confidence-boosting event inspired by his latest picture book Dylan\, Daisy and the Disco Ball. Explore storytelling through movement with dancer Magdalen Bartlett. Book tickets for the individual events and drop in for some free crafts. Suitable for ages 3+. \nA Manchester Literature Festival event supported by Library Live.  \nBooking links:   \nThe Elves and the Shoemaker\, 10.30am – 11.15am | £6 – Book tickets here \nDance with Magdalen Bartlett\, 12 – 12.40pm | Free but booking recommended – Book tickets here \nRobert Tregoning – Dylan\, Daisy and the Disco Ball\, 1.30pm – 2.15pm | £6 – Book tickets here
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-literature-festival-presents-little-reads-family-day/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Family
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4793-Little-Reads-Family-Days-Landscape.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261104T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261104T193000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260916T162305Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T162337Z
UID:14707-1793815200-1793820600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Author Q&A: Buzz Hawkins
DESCRIPTION:Buzz Hawkins joins us at Central Library to tell us more about the family Bradshaw\, and his new novel\, ‘The Bradshaws Right Up Your Street’. \n\n\n\n\n“Even after more than 600 episodes people were still asking me ‘have you written any new ones?’” says Manchester born writer Buzz Hawkins\, creator and voices of British radio’s long-running comedy nostalgia series. “Well now I can tell them yes––with bells on!” \nAudrey Bradshaw’s wishbone wish seems a simple one: a nice peaceful family Christmas in their two-up-two-down terraced house with a nice plump turkey and all the trimmings (little Billy got the small bit but that’s enough for a seven-nearly-eight year old). Billy’s wish is for a pet\, preferably a budgie\, but any pet will do. December is already here\, Christmas is approaching like a steam train and there’s no sign of Audrey’s housekeeping money (again). And Alf is spending too much time down the pub. Then there’s the small matter of Billy’s school nativity play. Simple\, eh? Never. It’s all the fun of the Festive! \nPraising the series on the BBC Radio Four documentary ’30 Years of the Bradshaws’\, comedian Peter Kay said: \n“Comedy is in the minutiae of life and in the things that you know really well. Sometimes you reach and you stretch for things … sometimes I think that it’s right under your nose. It’s about having the capability to recognise it and then turn it into gold. And I think that’s what he’s done.” \nBuzz will be talking about the new instalment\, ‘The Bradshaws Right Up Your Street’\, right here at Manchester Central Library on Wednesday 4th November. \nBooks will be available at the event. \nTickets are just pay-what-you-like! Available below or on Eventbrite HERE.\n\nAll donations go to Manchester Libraries to further future activities.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/author-qa-buzz-hawkins/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Comedy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Buzz-profile-pic_1114x610_144.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261119T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261119T190000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260904T143905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260904T143905Z
UID:14591-1795111200-1795114800@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Confucius Institute presents: The Chinese story of bamboo: Sustainability in Material and Culture
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our next public talk with Manchester Confucius Institute to learn about the Chinese story of bamboo with Fang Zong. \nBamboo\, as a model of sustainability\, is deeply rooted in Chinese traditions of material application and cultural representation. This talk explores the dual identity of Chinese bamboo both as a vital ecological resource and a profound cultural symbol. Fang Zong\, a multidisciplinary scholar\, tells the Chinese story of bamboo through historical bamboo wares to modern innovation\, scientific basics to artistic presentation\, and natural environment to human spirit. \nFree – book your ticket on Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below \nThe 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.
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/manchester-confucius-institute-presents-the-chinese-story-of-bamboo-sustainability-in-material-and-culture/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Chinese-story-of-bamboo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261128T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261128T170000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260918T092849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260918T092849Z
UID:14726-1795852800-1795885200@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Indonesian Film Screening: Levitating (2026)
DESCRIPTION:This screening is presented to you by Nuansa: Indonesian Film Pop-Up in collaboration with Manchester Central Library and Library Live. \nDelve into the world of spirit-fuelled trance parties in the island nation of Indonesia with the screening of Levitating\, a film directed by Wregas Bhanuteja\, which recently competed at the Sundance Film Festival. \nThere will be a virtual Q&A session with the film director at the end — you are encouraged to stay and fire your questions away! \nAbout the Film \nLatas Village is known for its traditional trance parties\, a long-standing ritual and form of entertainment passed down through generations. When the sacred wellspring where the spirit-channelers seek spirits from is facing an impending demolition\, Bayu becomes determined to become a spirit-channeler himself so he can lead a grand fundraising party to buy back the spring. But along the way\, Bayu discovers that ambition alone is not enough to make him a true spirit-channeler\, or to save the village he calls home. Image is courtesy of Rekata Studio. \nAbout Nuansa: Indonesian Film Pop-Up \nNuansa aims to bring Indonesian stories to the screen for curious audiences in Manchester. Meaning nuance in English\, Nuansa takes viewers by the hand and invites them to see what lies between the layers. Storytelling is a craft that transcends sound and image — it encourages seeing beyond the surface\, discovering the nuances of a country with cultures folded into one another.Introducing audiences to stories from the other side of the world\, the project hopes to illuminate the syncretic\, often bewildering island nation that is Indonesia through the intimacy of cinema. \nFollow us at nuansa.co.uk. Join our mailing list and get notified about future screenings (and other fun stuff). We will always try to offer our screenings for free\, however\, running them is not without costs. There is an option to donate\, should you feel like supporting the project that way — it is much\, much appreciated and will help keep the project going. It is entirely optional\, and we’ll be as happy just to have you there! \nWe’re excited to offer this screening free of charge. Can’t make it? Please cancel your free ticket so someone else can join. \nSuitable for ages 18 and over \nBook tickets on Eventbrite here or click on ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/indonesian-film-screening-levitating-2026/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Film
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Indo-film.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261130T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261130T193000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260918T094434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260918T094550Z
UID:14734-1796059800-1796067000@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Research Stories Told Live
DESCRIPTION:Researchers have captured their work in a single image. Now they’re sharing the stories behind them. Join us for an evening of true stories told live by this year’s Images of Research 2026 finalists. \n\n\n\nWorking with Heard Storytelling\, a selection of finalists will take to the stage to tell personal stories from their experiences of research. From unexpected discoveries and moments of doubt to the people\, places and encounters that shaped their work\, each story offers a glimpse into the human side of research. \nAlongside the storytelling\, you’ll be able to explore the Images of Research 2026 exhibition and see the images that inspired the stories shared on stage. \nWhether you’re curious about research\, enjoy hearing people tell their stories\, or simply fancy spending an evening discovering something new\, we’d love you to join us. \n\n\nYou can view all twelve finalist images and vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Award ahead of the event here. \nBook free tickets on Eventbrite here or click on ‘Book Now’ below
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/research-stories-told-live/
LOCATION:Performance Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Research-event.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20270910T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20270911T180000
DTSTAMP:20260922T210754
CREATED:20260910T164135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T171954Z
UID:14651-1820570400-1820685600@librarylive.co.uk
SUMMARY:Love Stories etc Romance Festival 2027!!
DESCRIPTION:#LoveStoriesEtc Romance Literary Festival is back for its fourth spectacular year\, taking over Manchester Central Library on 10th-11th September 2027. \n\n\n\n\nWe’re cooking up the ultimate line‑up to bring you all the swoony\, bookish vibes you can handle – think electric author panels\, hands‑on creative sessions\, and industry‑expert workshops. Two joy-packed days. Endless inspiration. Join us. \nWe already have to following wonderful authors confirmed! \nBobby Palmer\, Tasneem Abdur-Rashid\, Ellie Barker\, Alice Murphy-Pyle\, Jasmine Burke\, Mike & Claire Gayle\, Lia Louis\, Rasheda Ashanti Malcolm\, Ellie McNicoll\, Josie Lloyd & Emlyn Rees\, Rufaro Faith Mazarura and Ela Jones. \nEARLY BIRD TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE RIGHT NOW!! \n£35 FOR THE WHOLE WEEKEND including booking fee!!
URL:https://librarylive.co.uk/event/love-stories-etc-romance-festival-2027/
LOCATION:Performance Space
CATEGORIES:Author Event,Book Fair,Party
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://librarylive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Love-Stories-Central-Logo-Banner.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR