Festival of Libraries is a joyful celebration of the role that Greater Manchester’s 133 libraries play in wellbeing, culture, creativity and more.

This is a festival for everyone that spans internationally renowned institutions such as Central Library, Chetham’s Library, The Portico Library and John Rylands Research Institute and Library, Manchester Poetry Library as well as the network of local libraries across the city region, reflecting Manchester’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature.

Now in its third year, Festival of Libraries is funded by Arts Council England and enjoys the support and collaboration of authors, artists and creatives, who all believe in the vital community and cultural role of libraries.

June’s festival programme will highlight this, with a programme that will surprise and intrigue including live music, library exchanges, dance and theatre, poetry commissions, a writing trail, Family Friendly activities and much more, all of which will be free to take part in.

Poet Laureate Simon Armitage says, “My experience of reading and writing began in the village library where I grew up, then in the nearby town library, then in libraries at various places of study and teaching. For many people they are an invaluable aspect of everyday life, giving access not just to books but to services, learning, conversation and creative thinking. I look forward to celebrating libraries as one of the great and necessary institutions as part of Manchester’s very own city-wide Festival of Libraries in the UNESCO City of Literature.”

Fun is a big factor for Festival of Libraries and the Look for a Book treasure hunt taking place from the 22nd May promises plenty of this. It’s set to mobilise children and families as they follow the clues and join the quest to find one of 500 books hidden in Greater Manchester’s libraries. Plus the chance for some participants to meet the author.

We have Inspired By Libraries events taking place across Greater Manchester featuring Simon Armitage, Manchester icons Cheddar Gorgeous, Dave Scott and Andy Spinoza plus award winning poet Raymond Antrobus and local hero of The Reno, Linda Brogan.

Helping to create curiosity and magic behind this year’s Festival of Libraries is newly appointed Creative Producer, Liv McCafferty, who says, “I am delighted to work on Festival of Libraries this year for Manchester City of Literature. Literature has played a huge role in my life, and the lives of others, from child- to adult-hood. Being able to work with such inspiring creatives and facilitators in bringing these spaces to life for Manchester’s communities is a dream.”