Visit Your Library on Sunday

Sunday opening is returning to Manchester libraries for the first time since 2011, with eight libraries set to open on Sundays by January 2027. The change is part of a £1.7m investment in the city’s library service, which is also funding extended staffed hours at nine additional libraries, alongside increased investment in books and events. The improvements will make library services more accessible and support our role as welcoming community spaces for learning, culture, wellbeing and connection.

Find out more at our Manchester Libraries blog.

Digital Inclusion Handbook

Over the last few months, we have worked collaboratively with our Digital Inclusion Working Group and NHS colleagues to design a Digital Inclusion Handbook for residents. This will be available across our libraries, GP practices, family hubs and community centres across Manchester. The guide is a one-stop shop for DI, covering access to devices and data, work clubs and skill sessions, and staying safe online. The first print run of 400 copies is being distributed in July. There is also a practitioner version for front line staff such as front desk teams, social prescribers and social workers. The resident version is also available to view online.

Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat Launches Across Manchester

The Summer Reading Challenge got off to a fantastic start across Manchester, with three exciting launch events for local pupils. Libraries across the city also hosted themed class visits and school assemblies, inspiring children to take part in this year’s challenge. The Summer Reading Challenge runs from 1 July to 12 September and encourages children and families to keep reading over the summer holidays.

The first launch took place at The Forum Library, where more than 200 primary school children and The Lord Mayor enjoyed Sophia Hatfield’s energetic Footy Fairy Tales show. Her imaginative storytelling and football-themed fun created plenty of excitement and laughter, and classes were joined by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Shaukat Ali.

The celebrations continued with Dommy B, who toured Manchester libraries and schools over two days with his new show and book, The Dinosaurs Are Back! An incredible 590 children joined performances packed with storytelling, dancing, tongue twisters and dinosaur facts. Each participating school received a copy of the book to continue the adventure. Our third launch featured Ilaria the Storyteller, who delighted 83 Key Stage 1 children with a musical puppet show. In total, 880 children were introduced to the Summer Reading Challenge, making the launch a tremendous success.

Business Showcase Day – Generator

Generator hosted a range of workshops and support sessions this month for entrepreneurs and small businesses, covering topics including e-commerce, website design and podcasting. One of its members, Ramona, also hosted a successful AI Roundtable Breakfast Club, sparking valuable discussions on the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence for small businesses.

A highlight of the month was the Business Showcase Day at Royal Mills Enterprise Hub, which gave businesses supported through Generator the opportunity to showcase their products and services. Exhibitors included Seifa’s spicy muffins and cocktails, Vedit Media, members of the Hong Kong business community, Rehab Fitness CIC, Volcan Coffee and Kay’s Podcasting.

The event also welcomed Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, who met with exhibitors and heard how support from Generator, the Business & IP Centre and the Build A Business Programme has helped local businesses overcome challenges and achieve growth.

Harpurhey Day Parade – North City Library

Harpurhey was alive with celebration on Sunday 28 June, as residents came together for a fantastic day dedicated to the local community. The event began with a lively community parade from North City Family & Fitness Centre to Queens Park, where families enjoyed a wide range of activities and entertainment. Highlights included performances from local theatre groups, dancers and singers, alongside attractions such as a carousel and climbing wall. Manchester Libraries were on hand to promote the Summer Reading Challenge, give away free books, and host a popular craft activity where children made their own hand puppets. With brilliant weather and a great community atmosphere, the event was a wonderful success enjoyed by all.

Build a Business Launches New Workshop: Funding Your Business Idea

Build a Business is delighted to announce the launch of a brand new workshop, Funding Your Business Idea, which has now been added to our core programme of support for aspiring entrepreneurs and start-up businesses. The new workshop joins their popular start-up favourites further strengthening the support available to individuals looking to start and grow successful businesses.

The workshop is packed with useful insights and expert advice, giving attendees the confidence to navigate the funding landscape and make informed decisions about financing their business journey. The response to their first session has already been extremely positive. One participant commented: “It gave me a lot more confidence that I’m making the right choices when it comes to expanding my business. Very helpful in breaking down what type of funding I should go for.”

Creative Space Highlights – Wythenshawe Library

Creative Space built on a busy May programme which included live performances, exhibitions and youth activity. Highlights included a first fashion show focused on sustainability, the “It’s a Shawe Thing” exhibition celebrating local artists, and a Battle of the Bands attracting 150 attendees and raising funds for Music Evermore. Youth provision also expanded with new weekly sessions and partnerships supporting DJing, music and creative skills. Read more at the Manchester Libraries bl...

Manchester Libraries Blog

Message History

Delivery option(s)