Libraries Access our archives, rare books and collections

Central Library will be closed from 2 to 25 August. Our Archives Search room and copy certificate services will be unavailable. Staff are working offsite and will respond via email. Access to our online family history sources can be found at any Manchester library, and our Local Images website and online resources are unaffected.

Search room opening hours

The search room opening hours are:

  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday - 9am to 5pm
  • Thursday - 9am to 8pm
  • Sunday - closed

To visit, please book at least one working day in advance. We need to receive your request by 9am of the day before you want to visit or by 9am on Friday if you want to visit on a Monday.

Search the library catalogue or GM Lives archive catalogue to find resources you're interested in.

Collections at the Central Library

If what you want is held at the Central Library, make a note of the reference number found either on this site or GM Lives. You can then:

If you need help looking for specific information, we offer a research service for a small charge.