LGBT History Month in Libraries

Our annual LGBT celebration offers a chance to learn more about the livesand stories of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans-gender people. We'll uncover hidden histories, take a look back intime, enjoy some stories and havea laugh too! All events are free and open to everyone.

The Myth of Gay Persecution in Nineteenth Century Manchester

Jeff Evans of Manchester Metropolitan University has researched sources held by the Greater Manchester County Record Office (with Manchester Archives) relating to the policing of a range of intimate male behaviours. The talk will consider local evidence in respect of the historical process of singularity (or 'homosexualisation') - in other words, the means by which such diverse acts were conflated into what today is labelled as 'gay history'. Original archives will be available for handling.

Becker Room, City Library
Thursday 3 February, 6.30 - 7.30pm

The Return of ... Read Dating!

It's back! Join us for a fun evening of swapping stories and meeting other singletons. Bring your favourite book or pick one off the shelves, then chat about why you love it. When the bell rings it's time to move round the room. You don't have to stand up in front of a crowd - it's strictly one-to-one in a friendly, informal setting. The Becker Room used to be the Registry Office so who knows what might happen?

Becker Room, City Library
Thursday 10 February, 6.30pm

Step Back In Time

Is it a quiz? Is it a slideshow? A journey through time? It's all of this and more! Join us to celebrate the launch of our new Flickr photo project  at a special retro-themed night in the Village. It's a quiz with a difference, with some stops along the way to share your experiences and stories. To find out more or book your place, call 0161 234 1939 or email libraries@manchester.gov.uk.

See a preview of the the project

View Bar, Canal Street, Manchester M1 3HW
Thursday 17 February, 7.30 - 9.00pm

Manchester Pride LGBT Heritage Trail

The popular Manchester Pride LGBT Heritage Trail returns with the special addition of items from Manchester Archives relating to the city's Queer History. See some of the documents and publications that gave Manchester's LGBT community a voice, then walk round key locations relating to the history and culture of local gays, lesbians, bisexuals and trans-gender people. Don't miss this rare event! No booking required.

Becker Room, City Library
Saturday 19 February, 2.30 - 5pm

LGBT reading group

A monthly group for anyone who enjoys LGBT-interest fiction. In February the group will be reading The Big Nowhere by James Ellroy. New members are always welcome at this friendly group - no need to register, just turn up! Contact Libby Tempest for more information on 234 1981.

Becker Room, City Library
Monday 21 February, 6 - 7pm

Proud 2B Parents. Celebrating LGBT parents and their families

Stories, rhymes and crafts for children. A Manchester Libraries/Proud 2b Parents partnership event for LGBT parents and their families. For further information please contact Matt Roberts at Moss Side Childrens Centre: telephone 226 0162/07506 51593; email matthew.roberts@manchester.gov.uk.

Alexandra Park Play Centre,
Demesne Road, Whalley Range, M16 8BG
Saturday 26 February, 2.15 - 4.15pm

Did you know?

Our library catalogue features lots of LGBT-interest materials. Enter a search term or follow the Reading Lists link for titles on fostering and adoption, fiction and non-fiction and picture books for LGBT families. You can make free reservations and we'll deliver to a library of your choice.

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For general information about these events please contact Jonathan Ebbs: telephone 0161 234 1939 or email j.ebbs@manchester.gov.uk.

Find out more about LGBT History Month