October Newsletter
Fun Palaces
Fun Palaces bring the community together through a celebration of culture, arts, science, and heritage. With a range of activities from crafts to tech, this is your chance to explore new interests and share your own passions. Join us at various libraries across the city for an afternoon of free fun and creativity. Venues and Times:
North City Library, Saturday 5 October, 2-4
Forum Library Wythenshawe, Saturday 5 October, 2-4
Longsight Library, Saturday 5 October, 2-4
Central Library, Saturday 5 October, 2-4
Green Libraries Week
Discover how we’re celebrating Green Libraries Week in October. From exciting events and activities to tips on sustainability, there’s something for everyone. Dive into our latest blog post to learn more. 7-13 October 2024 Various libraries across Manchester
Libraries are Warm Spaces
Every library in Manchester is a warm, safe and free space that residents of all ages can come in and stay warm all day in a positive environment with lots of resources. Again this year Manchester Libraries will be offering free teas and coffees and encouraging people stay as long as they want in their library. Find out more here.
Join #Take10toRead for World Mental Health Day, 10th October
Celebrate World Mental Health Day by taking 10 minutes to read. Reading promotes relaxation and reduces stress, offering numerous mental well-being benefits. Learn more on our blog about how to join #ReadMCR #Take10toRead at school, work, or home. Take 10 wherever you are!
Networking, Public Speaking and Communication Masterclass with Ian Taylor
Learn tried-and-tested techniques to improve your presentation and communication skills, build confidence, and manage nerves.
Central Library, Performance Space (Ground Floor), 3 October, 10-12
Book your place.
Conversation Club
Improve your English conversation skills in a friendly group. Free – just drop in!
Thursday, 3 October, 1-2.30
Thursday, 17 October, 1-2.30
Central Library, Ground Floor (Handling Tables Area)
More info here.
Looking for a new children’s book?
Check out “Bobby Bains Plays a Blinder” by Bali Rai, available as an eAudiobook on BorrowBox. Join young Sikh footballer Bobby as he reaches out to a lonely old man and helps him rediscover his love for football and community. Suitable for ages 8 and up.
Crochet and Chat Club
Join our new monthly crochet group, perfect for learning how
to crochet and meeting new friends. Free – just drop in.
Wednesday, 16 October, 2-4
Central Library, Ground Floor (Handling Tables Area)
More info here.
Instruments in Chinese Music: The Erhu
Instruments in Chinese Music: The Erhu (Chinese Fiddle) The Manchester Confucius Institute invites you to explore the erhu’s history, construction, and repertoire. Free!
Wednesday, 30 October, 6-7
Central Library, Performance Space (Ground Floor)
Book your place.
Knock Out Blow!
As part of our Black History Month celebrations, join us for an evening dedicated to Len Johnson, Britain’s uncrowned boxing champion and local activist. The event features live music, poetry, an interactive play, and archive photos, followed by a discussion on Johnson’s legacy. Free!
Thursday, 3 October, 5.30-7.30
Central Library, Performance Space (Ground Floor)
Book your ticket.
My Beautiful Voice with Joseph Coelho
Join poet Joseph Coelho for a children’s storytelling session. Free!
Saturday, 12 October, 11:30-11:15
Central Library, Performance Space (Ground Floor)
More info here.
The Society of Bookbinders – 50th Anniversary Activities
The National Society of Bookbinders, founded in Manchester in 1974, celebrates its 50th Anniversary with various events, workshops, and displays at Central Library between October and December.
All events are free with no booking required.
Central Library, Manchester.
The Journey of a Book: A display about making books by hand,
Archives +, Ground Floor, October to December.
Fine Bindings: A display of artistic bookbinding,
Reading Room, First Floor, October to December.
Informal Bookbinding Demonstrations / Workshops:
Ground Floor Handling Table, Saturdays at 10.30-4 on 5 October,
16 November, Thursday 5 December.
Creating A Fine Binding: The Kelmscott Chaucer: An illustrated talk by internationally acclaimed bookbinder Dominic Riley,
Performance Space, 6pm Thursday 28 November. Free – drop in.
Spotlight on Services
Whether you’re a life-long library member or newly signed up, make sure you’re using all the free library services available to you. Did you know there’s an… Online catalogue and an app so you can search for and reserve or renew books from anywhere. Our Online reference library gives you access to free language courses, digital newspapers and magazines, music streaming, homework and business resources. Free ebooks and audiobooks mean you can download the latest bestsellers to read or listen on any device, there are no overdue charges, they return themselves and they’re free to download.
Thanks to donations and grants many of our events and exhibitions in Manchester Libraries are free. You can make a donation in any library or visit Manchester Libraries Trust to make a donation or join the Library Lovers scheme.
