Library of the Month: Chorlton Library
Chorlton Library sits proud on Manchester Road in Chorlton, this fabulous branch library that was funded by Andrew Carnegie in 1914 is a true treasure to its community. Its original plans may have gone down with the Titanic but luckily that did not put a stop to this beautiful Library being built and opened. Chorlton library has always been a very well used and popular library, enjoying operating for its community.
Following a one-year transformation project this magnificent building opened its doors again, and the crowds came rushing back, and were extremely impressed by its unveiled long-hidden architectural treasures.
Saturday 5 April was the grand reopening of the main library, we were joined by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Paul Andrews, Cllr John Hacking, Executive Members, the Lady Mayoress, contractors, designers, library staff past and present and lots of residents and children to mark the historic day. They were treated to a fun-filled event, including a choir singing in the newly unveiled balcony around the atrium of the library, and lots of craft workshops to join in with, including being able to screen print a specially designed Chorlton library tote bag. They also had the chance to check out the modern facilities and admire the restoration work including the original tiles and historic lettering which adorned key areas of the library which have been uncovered and carefully preserved and restored. It was a fantastic day enjoyed by all involved.
The library is now as busy as ever, opening for 48 hours a week and set to extend its opening hours soon with an Open Plus system that will allow registered customer to access the library when staff are not present. In August it will temporarily extend it’s opening hours due to the brief closure of central library for upgrading the Wi-Fi and Computer network.
All the regular activity is back up and running in the library, including the immensely popular and joyful weekly Storytime for pre-school children, The Grand Day Out is every Friday, this is an over 50’s social group, and the weekly age friendly hour.
Chorlton library also has some new clubs, including a Lego club, which has proved to be so popular that we have already had to top up the Lego supplies. We also have a new children’s colouring club, the Lego club and Colouring club run on alternative Saturdays 2-4pm. Our new Chess club has also been well received and gets lots of attendees and attention.
Since re-opening we have had many exciting events for all ages and tastes, some examples are: an evening with Ciamh McDonnell the comedian and author, a Crime Writers panel event with five amazing crime writers, a local history talk with Andrew Simpson, Playwright and Poet Cathy Crabbe with selected plays and the respected Writers café that has ran a couple of its sessions at the library, we also had a wonderful day with children’s author Marie Basting and lots of local school children. This is just some of our events that have took place so far and we have loads more good stuff coming up!!
Here are a couple of highlights to look out for and put in your diary: –
- The Summer Reading Challenge is now running, this is a national scheme to keep children reading through the summer and as part of this we have lots of free fun activities happening, for example you can come and get creative with artist Caroline making Pop Bottle Flowers or make a Mini Greenhouse with Lydia.
- September sees the 21st year of the Chorlton Book Festival, this year has a fantastic line up of authors and a real mix of events and activities, to drop a few names to get you excited, look out Jackie kay, Robin Ince, Daniel Gray, Adam Farrer, as well as loads of other stuff including family fun days, local history walk and even a cake decorating competition!
So, in all it is going to be a packed festival with things for all ages, likes and interests. Chorlton Book Festival 2025 – Highlights
Since reopening we have received many lovely comments: –
So great to be back in this beautiful space- acoustics are fabulous. Liz
An opening worthy of the Roman Pantheon! Moved to tears. Meredith
This is absolutely amazing. Good for another 100 years. John
Inspiring, welcoming- makes me want to read! Well done all. Laurence
Great place to find out what needs to be found out. Colin
I am moved. Thank you for doing such a great job. Generations to come will have the joy I’ve had.
Thank you for being a hub of joy and positivity for my daughters. Stefan
We have been coming to the library for over 45 years. It has never looked so splendid. A lovely space. Jen
It’s lovely to see the library open and looking so lovely. The building is so light and welcoming, and the staff are lovely. Gill
Chorlton Library truly is a wonderful place and well worth a visit, so come along, say hello, and see all that is on offer! We will be waiting to welcome you.
Have a look at our virtual tour of Chorlton library,
