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
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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.. -
Rare Reads
20 August 2025, 2.10pm-2.50pm
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.. -
Rylands Discovery Tour
20 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.. -
Printing Press Demonstration
21 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
21 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
21 August 2025, 2.10pm-2.50pm
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.. -
Rylands Discovery Tour
21 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.. -
Collection Encounter: The Secret Public
22 August 2025, 10.40am-11.50am
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.. -
Curator tour: The Secret Public LGBTQ Pop 1955-1985
22 August 2025, 3pm
Join us for a tour around our new exhibition led by curator Mat Bancroft. The Secret Public: LGBTQ Pop 1955-1985 explores the profound influence of LGBTQ performers, artists and ac..