Transformation

Central Library Success

Library Live – the cultural programme, partly funded by the Development Trust, continues to expand to more branch libraries as part of the Creative Spaces initiative. Family extravaganza, The Ministry of Lost Found was so popular, attracting over 2,000 ‘explorers’ in 2018, it ran again in 2019, and the core cultural offer continues to grow through author events, concerts and unique performances
A popular programme of exhibitions, including There is a Light that Never Goes Out, celebrating Manchester’s rich music heritage through iconic photography, Pirates, Pants and Wellyphants, by children’s illustrator Nick Sharratt and Bobbins, a hugely popular posthumous celebration of the iconic performer, Frank Sidebottom
The Business and Intellectual Property Centre contributes to the city’s economy and inspires local entrepreneurs by hosting events with business champions such as Wayne Hemingway and Lawrence Jones of UK Fast, and by running a large range of sessions, workshops and events for business start-ups
The Archives+ interactive exhibition space, bringing the history of the city and its people to life
Read Manchester – the partnership promoting reading and boosting literacy across the city, continues to grow through World Book Day, the Summer Reading Challenge and the Book-gifting campaign, which the Trust has raised over £8,000 for, from public donations over 3 annual appeals.
Visitor Information Centre
The Manchester UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service Centre

Visitors love Central Library – on Tripadvisor it is in the top 10 of places to visit in Manchester:

“This is a great building which is worth visiting as a tourist. Despite the name it is not a typical library in the traditional way. It is more an information hub with exhibitions and a cafe. The tourist information desk is excellent”, Visitor, Feb 2023

“Excellent free exhibition of music photography from Jill Furmanovsky on the first floor near the reading room. Definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in either music or photography”, Visitor, April 2023

“It’s no exaggeration: this place is so beautiful, big and great in every sense. You will find always a place to work, read or be in silent. Go to the floor where music is jammed. Or to the cafeteria, with very tasty coffee and biscuits. Or wander around, looking at the beautiful art. Endless!” Mariano S, Amsterdam.

Find out more about how the Development Trust supports wide ranging educational and cultural work with children and families

You can make a donation to support the library’s ongoing transformation by clicking the Donate buttons on this site. Online donations are securely facilitated on our behalf by CAF (Charities Aid Foundation).