Manchester Central Library

Manchester Central Library sits on St Peter’s Square in one of the city’s most recognisable buildings – a circular, colonnaded structure opened in 1934 and given a major restoration completed in 2014. The reading room under its domed roof is worth visiting for the architecture alone. But this is a working library first and foremost, and it’s completely free.

Inside you’ll find the city’s main lending library, extensive reference collections, the Archives+ centre holding Manchester’s historical records, free computer access, and free wifi throughout. There’s a performance space, exhibition areas, and a busy programme of events including author talks, reading groups, workshops, and activities for children. The building also houses the city’s Chinese library and a music library.

The ground floor has a cafe and comfortable seating areas where you can just sit and read or work. Staff are helpful and the building is fully accessible. It’s open Monday to Thursday 9am-8pm, Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm, and Sunday 12pm-4pm. Whether you need to borrow a book, research your family history, attend an event, or just want a quiet place to sit, Central Library is one of Manchester’s great public spaces.