Explore our groundbreaking Rainbow Library collection of the best writing and illustration from young LGBTQIA+ writers in Manchester.

The Rainbow Library is a UK and Ireland-wide participatory literature creation and publishing project developed by Pop-Up CIC. It’s being developed to address the near-invisibility of – and demand for – LGBTQ+ inclusive stories in children’s books. Over two years, 10 LGBTQ+ authors (writers, illustrators; some working in pairs, some alone) will produce eight new book titles (representing eight colours in the Pride flag) for a wide age range of readers. Each book is conceived and developed during creative workshops, run by the authors, with groups of LGBTQ+ young people in eight cities.

In 2022 a group organised by Manchester City of Literature began writing their stories, which are now on display for the first time during the Festival of Libraries 2023, come and visit, read the stories and celebrate LGBTQ+ writing ahead of the Queer Joy conference taking place in November.

Please note that there’s no need to book tickets for this event, the exhibition is on display for the duration of the Festival of Libraries and you will only need to check the library opening times.