Libraries Update – March 2026
See Myself in Books Festival
Over three thousand children from forty-two primary and high schools have participated in this year’s See Myself in Books Festival. Organised by Read Manchester, the festival hosted thirteen authors in schools and libraries across the city to introduce children to a range of diverse and inclusive books.
The Festival is a celebration of reading for pleasure and at the same time inspires children to discover books with diverse characters they can truly relate to. The festival’s origins come off the back of research by the National Literacy Trust that having access to diverse books could help provide a boost to reading enjoyment, with almost 1 in 3 (31.5%) children and young people saying that having books that represent them would make them want to read more, but over half of children (53.1%) saying they experience difficulties finding books with characters or people like them.
Alongside the festival, Read Manchester has also curated two unique sets of ‘See Myself in Books’ book collections promoting ethnic diversity and neurodiversity, with collections distributed so far to more than 50 primary schools. These books are of course also available to borrow in libraries!
One class teacher told us:
“I think events such as this are invaluable. When children from EAL (English as an Additional Language) backgrounds see themselves reflected in books, through characters, cultures, names, or experiences, it helps them feel seen and included rather than like outsiders. This sense of belonging can boost their confidence, participation, and engagement with reading”.
Libraries Annual Report
Earlier this month I took a report on libraries to the Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee. The report gives highlights of the last year and describes how the library service is at the heart of our communities and continues to have a positive impact on people’s lives. Take a read of the report at the Manchester Libraries blog.
Digital Inclusion Annual Report
Earlier this month I also took a report on digital inclusion to the Communities and Equalities Scrutiny Committee. This report updates the Council’s digital inclusion work, since March 2025, including the implementation of the Digital Inclusion Action Plan. It includes great examples of how we’ve help hundreds of residents become confident online users. Take a read of the report at the Manchester Libraries blog.
Build a Business Celebration Event
The Build A Business Celebration Event took place on 11 March at the People’s History Museum, marking the achievements of participants in the programme from across Greater Manchester. The event welcomed special guest Patrick Grant, well‑known entrepreneur, clothier, and long‑standing judge on The Great British Sewing Bee. He was joined by a panel of three alumni entrepreneurs – Stu Smith, Nancy Martha Chihota, and Marie Petrequin, who each shared their experiences of starting and growing their businesses.
Their contributions offered valuable insights into resilience, innovation and the realities of business development. Feedback from attendees was extremely positive, with one participant noting:
“Fantastic programme”
“Immensely interesting! Fantastic to hear other people’s stories and insights. Bravo!”
“What is happening across Greater Manchester with Build A Business is extraordinary” (Patrick Grant)
Manchester Libraries Podcast!
Full Volume: The Manchester Libraries Podcast bounces back with a Spring in its step this March. Continuing to dazzle with its fresh new look, line-up, features, and more – presenter Alan Lynch and co-host Gary Parkinson – bring you all the latest and greatest from across Manchester Libraries.
Listen to Episode 13: Cargo Recording Studios + National Year of Reading
Exploring Virtual Reality! – Abraham Moss Library
Abraham Moss Library hosted state‑of‑the‑art VR headsets and a selection of free digital experiences as part of the three‑week Digital Spaces programme delivered across Manchester Libraries, including Central Library and Wythenshawe Forum.
Manchester Libraries were chosen as one of nine library services in England to take part in this innovative initiative, designed to expand digital engagement and make emerging technologies more accessible in community spaces.
Visitors were invited to explore a range of immersive virtual worlds, featuring well‑known figures such as David Attenborough and Wallace & Gromit. At Abraham Moss Library, VR workshops were especially popular with children aged 8+ and their adults. Across eight sessions, more than 100 participants took part, many trying virtual reality for the first time. Children quickly built confidence as they navigated mini‑games and interactive environments, while adults, initially observing, soon joined in with enthusiasm. The sessions created a supportive, family‑friendly atmosphere where participants learned together, shared experiences, and discovered the possibilities of virtual reality.
Business Events – Generator
Over the past month, Generator delivered a new programme of workshops and events, including a popular Networking Evening that brought over 30 local founders and creatives together, alongside five practical, skills‑focused sessions centred on effective communication of business offerings to potential clients.
This month’s workshops included ‘Authentic Selling Through Storytelling’, ‘Social Media Masterclass’, ‘Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Guide for Small Businesses’, ‘Short‑Form Content for Your Small Business’, and ‘An Introduction to Canva’. All workshops were designed to provide business owners with clear, hands‑on strategies and tools which they can apply immediately to support their business. In total, more than 70 people attended workshops across the month.
These activities were delivered in partnership with the Business & Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) of Greater Manchester Libraries and Build a Business. Together, we remain committed to backing local entrepreneurship and helping people turn ideas into real opportunities.
Reopening Welcome Event – Withington Library
Withington Library hosted a warm and welcoming community event to celebrate the reopening of the library following essential improvement works. The event offered a wide range of creative activities, including tote bag decorating, jewellery making, pom‑pom spring crafts and origami animal corner bookmarks. All activities proved popular, with tables full of enthusiastic participants throughout the afternoon.
Guests also enjoyed an afternoon tea featuring cakes, biscuits and refreshments, which proved so popular! The much‑loved Lego Club also resumed, much to the delight of its regular attendees. The event was extremely well attended, with many visitors expressing how much they had missed the library and its vibrant community atmosphere during the closure.
Manga Art Workshops – Central Library
On Saturday 21 March, Central Library hosted artist Inko Takita for two engaging manga workshops delivered in partnership with The Japan Society. Aimed at young people aged 12–18, the sessions offered a lively and accessible introduction to Japanese culture and the art of manga.
Inko began by introducing participants to Yokai—the intriguing supernatural beings found throughout Japanese myth and folklore. She shared stories, examples, and insights into how these creatures continue to inspire modern manga, before moving on to explain key illustration techniques used by manga artists.
The workshops then shifted into a practical drawing session. Inko demonstrated core manga-drawing skills and encouraged participants to experiment with their own styles, helping them gain confidence as young illustrators. To finish, each attendee created an original Yokai character, considering its habitat, diet, personality, and any special powers. This imaginative exercise allowed the group to bring their ideas vividly to life and left everyone feeling inspired.
Sacred Heart RC Primary Parents’ Evening Visit – Brooklands Library
Sacred Heart RC Primary School invited Brooklands Library staff to host a stall at the school’s parents’ evening, offering a valuable opportunity to promote the library and the wide range of services available. The stall attracted significant interest, with staff engaging in many positive conversations with local families. Numerous new members joined the library during the event, and information leaflets were handed out throughout the evening.
Each family received a What’s On guide for Brooklands Library, ensuring they were aware of the activities, clubs and resources on offer. Library staff also gifted a selection of World Book Day books, which delighted the children. Staff have since spoken with the school’s headteacher about arranging future class visits and supporting teachers to obtain school block loan cards, and the library looks forward to developing this partnership further.
International Women’s Day – Hulme Library
International Women’s Day provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate creativity, sustainability, and the strength of women coming together. The brilliant library staff at Hulme Library, Cristina and Amanda, planned and delivered a fantastic craft activity as part of the wider International Women’s Day celebration at Moss Side Leisure Centre. Participants designed and created beautiful mini hats using recycled bottle lids and fabric scraps. The session was filled with laughter, imagination, and a shared sense of purpose as everyone transformed simple, everyday materials into unique works of art. It was inspiring to see how creativity can bring people together, promote sustainability, and highlight the importance of reusing resources while celebrating women’s talents and voices. Each mini hat was finished with a magnet on the back, turning it into a charming handmade fridge magnet.
Empowering Women in Business
Business & IP Centre Manchester and Build a Business ran a wonderful event for International Women’s Day, ‘Share the Journey – Grow Through Connection’ bringing together women from across Manchester for an uplifting event focused on community, collaboration, and celebrating women in business! Centred on the theme Give to Gain, the event highlighted how sharing skills, stories, and encouragement strengthens everyone’s personal and professional journey. The morning featured music, inspiring panel conversations, and hands‑on mini‑masterclasses designed to spark confidence, creativity, and meaningful connections. Attendees left feeling energised, inspired, and genuinely connected, reflecting the true spirit of International Women’s Day!
Silent Discos – Across North Area Libraries!
The recent introduction of Silent Disco workshops across North Area Libraries sparked curiosity and excitement from the moment participants arrived – and the experience absolutely lived up to the anticipation. Participants pictures here at Gorton, Newton Heath, Avenue and North City Library curated their own personalised playlists with juniors supported to choose age‑appropriate songs. Combined with colourful disco lighting, each workshop became a vibrant and immersive experience unlike any other we’ve delivered.
A particularly heart‑warming highlight was seeing parents join in with their children. While some adults were initially reserved, most gradually loosened up as the sessions went on – dancing, laughing, and sharing genuine moments of joy with their young ones. The Age Friendly sessions brought a unique and uplifting energy of their own where beautiful classical music brought a combination of familiar melodies, gentle movement, and shared enjoyment creating a calm yet joyful atmosphere.
With 10 sessions and 196 attendees overall, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. One question echoed across nearly every session: “When are we having this again?” This repeated request reflects not only the enjoyment felt by attendees but also the wider value of the workshops—bringing fun, creativity, community, and wellbeing together in a memorable and inclusive way.
World Book Day Visit to Ashgate Specialist Support Primary School – Forum Library
Library staff had the pleasure of spending World Book Day at Ashgate Specialist Support Primary School in Wythenshawe. Staff visited a number of classes to deliver a bag book titled The Fairground, a multi‑sensory story that encourages children to engage through touch, sound, scent and movement. This inclusive approach meant every child was able to participate fully, resulting in a joyful and rewarding session. The children particularly enjoyed joining in with animal puppets to sing and perform Old Macdonald. The school was filled with excitement, with both children and teachers dressed as their favourite book characters. Each classroom was vibrant and lively, helping to create a truly special atmosphere for everyone involved.
Kossuth Commemoration Event – Central Library
On Saturday, 14 March, the Hungarian community gathered at Central Library for the annual commemoration of Lajos Kossuth (1802–1894), former Prime Minister of Hungary. As part of the tradition, the Kossuth plaque, held within the Town Hall collection, was displayed during the event.
The afternoon featured a rich programme of speeches, musical performances, dance, traditional children’s crafts, food, and shared song. The event celebrated the life and legacy of Kossuth while serving as a vibrant showcase of Hungarian culture.
Around 200 people attended, contributing to a warm and lively atmosphere of remembrance and community spirit.
Celebrating Community, Culture, and Growth – Creative Space Wythenshawe
Creative Space Wythenshawe has started the New Year with a busy programme of activities, workshops, and projects. In the first two months of 2026, the venue has welcomed 1,884 visitors. A first‑ever Fashion Show was delivered in collaboration with Pioneer House Secondary School and Manchester City Council (MCC). Work with Wythenshawe Community Housing Group also continued through January’s well‑attended Community Connector event. Creative Space has been engaged with MCC’s Neighbourhood Team on the Government’s Pride in Place scheme, which is set to bring significant investment to Woodhouse Park and Benchill over the next decade. As a welcoming and inclusive hub, Creative Space continues to demonstrate strong community cohesion through its varied programme.
A women’s empowerment event was also delivered, aimed specifically at women from ethnic minority communities in Wythenshawe. The session was delivered in partnership with Know Africa, a local CIC dedicated to supporting and celebrating the diverse African diaspora in Manchester. The event focused on providing practical guidance for women interested in establishing small businesses, with input from industry experts. MP Mike Kane and local councillors were in attendance, with contributions reflecting on community ties and the importance of championing local enterprise.
The fifth edition of Liveinshawe took place on 30 January, continuing its development as a regular feature of the Creative Space cultural offer. Liveinshawe is an inclusive community arts collective celebrating the creativity of Wythenshawe through open‑mic sessions, music, poetry, and storytelling. The project, part of the wider Common Unity collective, aims to uplift grassroots artists, strengthen local connections, and spotlight the diverse stories within the community. Mint Sounds, which produces podcasts for Creative Space, recorded audio from the event: Liveinshawe January 2026 Part 2.
