On Wednesday 13 September we were thrilled to unveil the brand new Abraham Moss Library and Leisure Centre.
The grand opening saw city officials, council members, officers, key stakeholders and many other community users and local residents join to celebrate the official opening of this brand new state-of-the-art facility.
Manchester City Council Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure, Councillor John Hacking welcomed guests to the facility and spoke of the importance of Manchester’s continued investment in facilities.
Following a multi-million investment from Manchester City Council, this new building has significantly transformed the landscape of the Abraham Moss campus with the introduction of a stunning library and leisure facility. An investment that is part of the Council’s long-term transformational strategy into the renewal and modernisation of our leisure estate to provide a sustainable future, part of Manchester’s long-term plan and target to become a zero-carbon city by 2038.
Having both a vibrant library and a modern leisure centre in one location provides an enriching environment for the local community. This will be our fourth across the city, working together to promote healthy minds and healthy bodies.
The brand-new library is an ultra-modern open plan space, offering cultural and creative space for the whole community with great books, free access to wi-fi and the internet and an exciting and diverse event programme for all ages. The library will continue to play a significant role in helping to address deprivation and inequality for local communities in the heart of Crumpsall.
Our official opening day featured an advance taste of our forthcoming programme for the community and there were special activities for everyone. Heart Valve Voice offered heart health checks and advice for everyone with their trained clinicians. Manchester Libraries’ Archives+ had a popular presence with archivists Jenny and Angela showing precious original archives from Crumpsall Workhouse and historic photographs from the Crumpsall Memory Box.
Refreshments were served in our relaxing Age-Friendly seating area. Cheetham Sketcher and artist Mary Burke created a colourful collage canvas of the new Abraham Moss Library themed around our favourite books or writers, plus there was a lively Story and Rhyme Time with Julie for parents with babies and toddlers. Among our special guests were the Abraham Moss Community School pupil librarians, reading ambassadors and staff who received a Library tour and everyone was invited to choose a free Read Manchester children’s book to take home and keep.
We also got the opportunity invite local resident, Edward Kane, as our special guest.
Cllr John Hacking said “Edward has been volunteering at Abraham Moss library for over 20 years. He is a popular and valued member of the team, always happy, talking to customers and helping to create a welcoming space for everyone. Edward volunteers and turns up for his duties come rain or shine, even if he is unwell. He is an outstanding example to others, and he makes a notable contribution to the library service and am pleased to formally acknowledge his commitment today. Thank you, Edward.”
This facility is one that reflects Manchester at its finest – a city that cherishes its people and harnesses the power of community spirit and ensures Mancunians have access to live healthier and happier lives, through the creation of accessible space that truly cater to the diverse needs of local residents.
