Bibliophiles, rejoice: we have rounded up the best libraries in Manchester for your perusal. Manchester has long been a place of learning – it is home to Britain’s oldest public library, after all. We thought it high time to celebrate the best libraries in Manchester, big and small, new and old.
Central Library re-opened in 2014 after a £48m restoration, bigger and brighter, and the new home of the city’s archives and local history collections.
John Rylands Library houses a collection of rare books that spans five millennia – including an original Gutenberg Bible – in a neo-Gothic building that took nine years to build.
The Portico Library opened in 1806, and remains a well-appointed subscription library today. Go for tea and cake, exhibitions and events beneath its beautiful glass dome.
Chetham’s Library is the oldest free public reference library in Britain. Visitors can browse beautiful medieval shelving and an internationally rated collection of books.
The Working Class Movement Library houses the personal collection of labour historians Ruth and Edmund Frow, a treasure trove of material and stories dating back to the 1760s.
The North West’s first public poetry library, with a mission to widen access to poetry to everybody, you’ll find Manchester Poetry Library opposite All Saints park.
A public library in the centre of the wonderful market town of Altrincham.
The North West’s first public poetry library, Manchester Poetry Library opened in 2020 at Manchester Metropolitan University.
These regular talks in both Manchester and Knutsford unpack the meaning and significance of Elizabeth Gaskell’s writing.
Long-lasting organisation with regular meetings and telescope sessions in the 1902 Godlee Observatory.
A modern community library space in North Manchester which is shared with North Manchester Sixth Form College.
Wythenshawe Forum comprises co-located services and a hub for community and business. The venue has leisure facilities as well as a performance space and complete library services.
One of Manchester’s most most diverse neighborhoods has a library to match with newspapers, books and publications available in multiple languages.
Tameside Library has the library on one floor and the Central Art Gallery above. Sounds a little like an arts centre. It’s all housed in a comfortable and sturdy building.
This red sandstone neo-Gothic building was created on a grand Mancunian scale and houses a collection of rare books that spans five millennia – including an original Gutenberg Bible.
This cornerstone of Chorlton life is a Carnegie library, listed building and the second busiest library in the city.
Formerly the Sir Kenneth Green Library, All Saints Library is part of Manchester Metropolitan University.
Chetham’s Library is one of the must-sees of any visit to Manchester. The library was founded in 1653, and is the oldest public library in the world – but the building dates back even further, to 1421.
Manchester's art scene is thriving - here's our guide to the best art galleries, from artist-led studios to major institutions.
Presenting the best walking tours in Manchester for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city.
The best new bars in Manchester, plus some old favourites for good measure.
If you find yourself in the North West of England looking for a spa day, look no further, check out our guide featuring our favourite spots.
Make the most of the sun in one of Manchester's many top-notch beer gardens.
Brewery tours across the North offer more than just a behind-the-scenes look at hops and fermenters. They’re a window into the region’s character.
Looking for somewhere to eat outside in Manchester in these hot summer months? Here's our guide to the restaurants in Manchester with the best areas for al fresco dining.
Fancy some Japanese food? We've uncovered the five best restaurants in Manchester.
Here are some of the best cafés and best coffee shops we’ve come across in Manchester – independents (almost) all.
Manchester is still a great place to watch new and innovative music – so here’s a guide to where to watch the best live music in the city.
Presenting the best walking tours in Manchester for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city.
Take me there
July's cinema highlights include spotlights on international cinema, a new cult classic, plus a visit from one of our favourite directors.
From Lyra Pramuk’s sacred synths to the sugar rush of YAANG, our latest music picks bring ritual, rebellion and ridiculous levels of fun.
Monumental sculptures, charcoal confessions and a show of two paintings only - all this and more in this month's exhibition picks.
Summer signals theatre festivals, world premieres and open-air spectacle - from MIF25 to comedy, outdoor circus and beyond, here’s what we’re looking forward to.
The summer holidays are here and what a packed programme of events we have in store for you!
Here’s our summertime guide to great food and drinks across the North.
Get stuck into some talking, baking and walking in this months top picks of Tours and Activities in the North.
