Visit

Opened in 1900, The John Rylands Library is one of Europe's finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture.

A gift to the city of Manchester, it was purpose-built to give public access to world-class collections of rare books, manuscripts and archives.

Visiting the Rylands

• Open Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm (last entry at 4.40pm).
• Admission is free, no booking required.
• At busier times queuing outside is likely.
• Accessible entrance and lift access. For full information visit our Accessibility page.

Until Spring 2025, building work is taking place to enhance exhibition spaces as part of the John Rylands Next Chapter project.

• Spaces on the first floor, including our exhibitions, are temporarily closed. There are no collections currently on display.
• You may hear loud construction sounds.
• Group visits cannot be accommodated at this time.
• Our regular activities are still taking place.

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

Opening hours for visitors and the Special Collections Reading Room.

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

Contact us

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