Jay Blades MBE is the nation’s favourite furniture up-cycler who inspires individuals, companies and charities to transform old furniture into works of contemporary design.

Starting in 2017, Jay has hosted BBC1’s primetime heart-warming show The Repair Shop.

In 2021, Jay starred in BBC2’s Jay’s Yorkshire Workshop. Jay opened the doors to his brand new workshop in Bradford and in each episode, members of the public would nominate local heroes from across Yorkshire to receive a handmade, bespoke piece of furniture to acknowledge the work they do for their community.

Last year Jay bravely shared his story about deciding to learn to read at age 51. Read more about this reading journey ahead of this exciting event below.

Jay said, “Libraries are fantastic spaces in the UK, anyone can walk in, be welcomed and spend time there for free. Reading or learning something new can be such a gift in times of need too, and for these reasons I’m so excited to be part of Manchester’s Festival of Libraries this year!”

Jay will be in conversation with our very own Reece Williams.