Manchester.com | Guidebook

manchester.com > Guidebook > Museums > Libraries

Libraries

Central Library
St Peter's Square, M1; 0161 234 1900

The major public reference and lending library in the region. its 9 subject departments which include a Chinese Library and a Visually Impaired People's Unit, contain over 2.5 million books, maps, newspapers, magazines, pictures, archives and other resources. Information technology facilities include CD-Roms and internet access.

Open: Mon-Thurs 10:00 am - 8:00pm; Fri and Sat 10:00am - 5:00pm

Chetham's Library
Long Millgate

Oldest public library in the English speaking world. Founded in 1653 and housed in a magnificent Grade 1 Listed Building. Superb collections include much of local interest. Guided tours by prior arrangement.

Open: Mon - Fri 9:00am

The John Rylands Library
150 Deansgate; Tel: 0161 834 5343/6765

Superb 1890's Gothic building housing the finest collection of rare books and manuscripts in the North of England. Visitors welcome. Free exhibitions. Special collections dividion of the University of Manchester. Guided tours on Wednesdays, £1.00 per person.
14-Aug 24, Books of Great Nicety And Perfection: fine printing and bookbinding in the twentieth century. Until July 13, Views of Japan A Hundred Years Ago.
Open: Mon - Fri 10:00am - 5:30pm; Sat 10:00am - 1:00pm

The Portico Library and Gallery
57 Mosley Street, M1; Tel: 0161 236 6785

A beautifully restored Georgian private subscription library, founded in 1806 and renowned from Victorian days. Contains some 25,000 voulmes, mainly 19th century works of fiction, travel, history and biography. Monthly art and book exhibitions open to the public.

Open: Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 4:30 pm

Working Class Movement Library
The Crescent, Salford; (0161) 736 3601

Open: Tue/Thu/Fri 10:00am to 5:00pm, Wed 10:00am to 9pm, Sun (Alternative) 2pm to 5pm; Admission: Free