• 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 […]

  • 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 […]

  • 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 […]

  • 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 […]

  • Sanctuary, now and then: asylum, migrant rights and anti-deportation in Britain since the 1980s

    Performance Space

    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 […]

  • 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 […]

  • Uniting Musical Cultures from Manchester to Hong Kong

    Performance Space

    Manchester Confucius Institute presents Uniting Musical Cultures from Manchester to Hong Kong. Recently returned from his trip to Hong Kong, acclaimed conductor Robert Guy shares his experience and insights from working across musical and educational cultures in Hong Kong and Manchester. Free – book tickets here or click ‘Book Now’ below

  • Courage, vision, planning and fearless work: the Congress Lives On.

    Performance Space

    Join the Ahmed Iqbal Ullah Race Centre and Education Trust for a powerful evening of reflection, resistance, and creative expression.  This event builds on the vital conversation we began last year with journalist and author Gary Younge, who returns to help us reflect on what important Black histories mean today. His address will be followed by a shared […]

  • Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration

    Performance Space

    Join us for a vibrant celebration of life, love, and remembrance! 🌟 We're thrilled to bring you Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a unique and special ancient Mexican tradition that's all about honouring our loved ones who've passed on. 🌿💀🇲🇽 In Mexican culture, it's believed that during this time of year, our beloved […]

  • Festival of Social Science Day

    Performance Space

    Join us at Central Library for a day of free activities and events celebrating The Festival of Social Science - an annual celebration of research and knowledge about humans and society and celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2022. The festival is an opportunity for anyone to explore topics relating to social science, from health and […]

  • An Evening with TJ Klune

    Performance Space

    Queer Lit and Manchester Libraries present a truly special evening as we welcome T.J. Klune – the international bestselling author and legend in queer literature – for an intimate conversation at Manchester Central Library. Expect: Thoughtful discussion about his iconic books Book signing opportunities Meet & greet and photo ops A warm, welcoming space to celebrate queer […]

  • Manchester Literature Festival presents John Murray Proof Party

    Performance Space

    DUE TO UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES LIV LITTLE IS NO LONGER ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT. You’re invited to our first proof party with John Murray Press and Dialogue Books!   Be among the first to hear from three exciting new voices as they give us an exclusive sneak peek into their 2026 novels and writing. Then […]