The John Rylands Library

COVID-19 update

We are working hard to safely reopen The John Rylands Library to visitors.

At the end of July, we were one of the first special collections libraries in Britain to reopen to researchers after the outbreak of COVID-19 and we are continuing to focus on providing access for research on our unique, world-class collections.

Welcoming back visitors in 2021

In order to do this in a Covid-compliant way, we’ve had to adapt and relocate services within the building. This makes it very difficult to open our Grade 1 listed building and exhibitions safely to visitors. We won’t be able to welcome visitors back until early 2021.

Thank you for your patience. In the meantime we are working really hard to care for our building and collections, and we are planning lots of exciting things to enable you to enjoy them virtually.

Please follow us on Twitter @TheJohnRylands, Instagram @thejohnrylands and Facebook, and look out for updates on our website.

Discover more about our architecture, collections, and what to expect when you visit.

The John Rylands Library is open to visitors seven days a week

Stay up-to-date with information about upcoming events, tours and exhibitions.

Find out more about our history, collections and how to get in contact with us.