Manchester City of Literature is inviting forward-thinking PR organisations to join us in helping connect communities throughout the region to libraries and literature through Festival of Libraries 2026.

Festival of Libraries is our flagship event, bringing together all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester for a 5 day celebration of our world class libraries – which are a huge part of what makes Manchester a UNESCO City of Literature.

PR Support

We are seeking a PR agency to support us in achieving the following goals:

• To present the eclectic library network in Greater Manchester, both historic and contemporary, as one of the strengths and assets of the city-region.
• To encourage attendance and participation at Festival of Libraries events.
• To promote the positive benefits of library membership and engagement with libraries to
  wellbeing, confidence, belonging and learning.
• To raise awareness of Manchester’s UNESCO designation.

Key Deliverables:

Festival of Libraries takes place from 10-14th June 2026. Work would span from February-June from kickoff to delivery, and is subject to funding (announced February.)

The fee is £4500, covering:

• 4-5 x Press releases to announce dates, programme, themes/artists.
• Secure and manage print and broadcast media interviews.
• Identify opportunities for coverage.
• Advise on campaign delivery to ensure alignment.

Primary audiences: regional news, consumer, lifestyle and tourist media.

Secondary audiences: stakeholders, national, councillors and policy makers.

How to Apply

Take the time to read the Festival of Libraries 2025 Impact Report and highlights before considering your application.

To apply, please email a cover letter and media pack clearly stating application in your email subject line to Jo Flynn, Director of External Affairs (jo.flynn@manchestercityofliterature.com) by 5pm on 20th February 2026.