Best Libraries in Manchester

A neo-gothic library built in the late 1800s by Enriqueta Rylands as a tribute to her husband John, resembling a cathedral and housing a beautiful collection of books.

A beautiful library.

John Wland's library is a library established in the 1900s, founded by Enriqueta Austin Rylands in memory of her husband, housing a collection of rare books and manuscripts and known for its neo-Gothic architecture.

Cetam's Library requires booking in advance to visit.

Chetham Library, established in 1653, is the country’s first free public library, where Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx began writing the Communist Manifesto.

The Central Library is located in St. Peter's Square.

John Ryland's Research Institute and Library is a stunning example of neogothic architecture built in 1900 in memory of Manchester's first multi-millionaire.

Chetham's Library is the oldest public library in England, in continuous use since 1653, and famous as the meeting place of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels.

A perfect example of modernist architecture. The library features a spacious and elegant main reading room with high ceilings and ornate details.

Houses the literary collection of Dalton and Jewel, founders of the Manchester literary and philosophical Society.

The oldest free public library in the English-speaking world, but is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

A magnificent example of neo-Gothic architecture, its impressive collection includes rare books and manuscripts, including one of the earliest printed copies of the Gutenberg Bible.

A library with architecture reminiscent of Hogwarts, a must-see for Harry Potter fans.