Events and exhibitions
Find out what events are taking place and what’s coming up.
Collections Gallery
Find out more about the Collections Gallery
The Secret Public
Find out more about the Secret Public exhibition
Manchester Digital Exhibitions
Browse online exhibitions to explore our collections and curated research from anywhere in the world.
Regular activities
Find out more about our drop-in activities.
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Collection Encounter: The Secret Public
14 August 2025, 2.10pm-3.20pm
Drop in to explore Manchester’s queer culture, pop music, and nightlife in this hands-on session inspired by our temporary exhibition: The Secret Public: LGBTQ Pop 1955–1985, f.. -
Printing Press Demonstration
14 August 2025, 11.30am-12pm
We showcase the use of our antique and fully functional Colombian printing press. Based on the collections, the prints are free to take home after the demonstration. The John Rylan.. -
Rare Reads
14 August 2025, 10.40am-11.20am
During our Rare Reads facsimile encounters we share beautifully accurate copies of some of our most famous objects. The incredibly rare special collections housed within The John R.. -
Printing Press Demonstration
15 August 2025, 11.30am-12pm
We showcase the use of our antique and fully functional Colombian printing press. Based on the collections, the prints are free to take home after the demonstration. The John Rylan.. -
Rare Reads
15 August 2025, 10.40am-11.20am
During our Rare Reads facsimile encounters we share beautifully accurate copies of some of our most famous objects. The incredibly rare special collections housed within The John R.. -
Rare Reads: Peterloo
15 August 2025, 2.10pm-2.50pm
This special Rare Reads facsimile encounter will highlight the events that occurred in August 1819 when 60,000 people came to St. Peter’s Field, Manchester to peacefully protest.. -
Rylands Discovery Tour
15 August 2025, 3pm-3.30pm
During our Rylands Discovery Tours our staff will travel with you through the library spaces and share the fascinating history of the founding of the library, the breadth of the ra.. -
Rylands Discovery Tour
16 August 2025, 11am-11.30am
During our Rylands Discovery Tours our staff will travel with you through the library spaces and share the fascinating history of the founding of the library, the breadth of the ra.. -
Printing Press Demonstration
20 August 2025, 11.30am-12pm
We showcase the use of our antique and fully functional Colombian printing press. Based on the collections, the prints are free to take home after the demonstration. The John Rylan.. -
Rare Reads
20 August 2025, 10.40am-11.20am
During our Rare Reads facsimile encounters we share beautifully accurate copies of some of our most famous objects. The incredibly rare special collections housed within The John R..