The Portico Library is at the heart of Manchester, and has been open for more than 200 years.

But what makes the Portico?

Is it the books? Is it the history? Is it the building?

Is it the people who walked through the doors? The readers? The members? The staff?

Or is it the feeling you have when you enter the room?

The Portico Library is going through a rapid change. This free exhibition explores the idea of the Portico as a box holding memories; a place to look back in time at 220 years and a place to imagine what a library could be like in 10, 50 and a 100 years’ time. We have reconnected with past colleagues, members, and users to select the things that tell us forgotten stories from this room.

Come and explore the adventures, the mystery, the fun and sad stories the Portico has witnessed.

Expect newly commissioned works by Manchester based artist Hathaikan Kongaunruan and poet Pamela Galloway, as well as featured works by historian, Charlotte Coull.

There is also a chance for you to take part in our Time Capsule project, writing a memory of the Portico on a postcard that will be stored in the Portico archive to be opened in the year 2076.

Curated by Apapat Jai-in Glynn in collaboration with Dr Debbie Challis and The Portico Library team.

Please check the library website for opening times before planning your visit.