Manchester City Council

Central Library is now closed for refurbishment. City Library, a new, temporary library is now open on Deansgate 

Why the library has closed

Library services have seen enormous change over the years. Central Library staff have had to rearrange space to accommodate more and more services, all very different from those envisaged when the building first opened in 1934.  Ryder Architects have been commissioned to rethink how the building is used, making it more accessible for all, with more stock on display and more room for new services and attractions. The building itself is in need of specialist renovation: its piecemeal maintenance is both difficult and expensive. This short-term closure will ensure its long-term survival.  What comes next will be the latest chapter in the story of Manchester's main library collection: its fifth incarnation in its fourth home.