Accessibility at the John Rylands Research Institute and Library
Full accessibility information can be found on the AccessAble website:
- John Rylands Research Institute and Library, Deansgate (AccessAble website) - Accessibility information
We are working hard to improve accessibility and facilities. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please call us on +44 (0)161 306 0555 or email:
We welcome assistance dogs.
How to find us
The main entrance to the Library is located just off Deansgate, in the heart of the city centre.
Due to its city-centre location there is no parking at the Library – information on nearby car parks, including accessible parking, can be found here:
Arriving at the Library
- Entrance to the Library is through a modern extension that links to the Historic building.
- The modern extension is fully accessible, with level access.
- A temporary door is in use down the left side of the modern extension.
- Please be careful, the floor is slate and can be slippery in wet weather. We have mats to keep the floor dry.
- The temporary welcome desk is directly ahead of you upon arrival and staff will greet you and welcome you to the Library.
- There are portable folding stools available in the Atrium which you can take with you as you explore the Library.
Within the Library
- There is lift access to all floors with the exception of:
- The Historic entrance and toilets.
- There are steps with a handrail leading to the Historic entrance and toilets.
- The corridors are wide with flat stone flags.
- The Historic building is lit by the original lights so the light levels are lower.
- There are large print (black on white) versions of all text in the exhibitions.
- There are chairs on all levels.
- There is one accessible toilet in the basement of the modern building. A RADAR key is required to access this facility; a key is available at the welcome desk.
- Our staff wear purple clothing and can be found in all areas of the Library if you need further assistance.