On the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, UNESCO Cities of Literature are taking part in a global and simultaneous show of solidarity. Inspired by and in cooperation with the Odesa Literature Museum.

In Manchester we will be holding a very special reading amongst the new Threads exhibition in the Histories Hub of Manchester Central Library which contains unique items sent specially to Manchester from Odesa. Readings will be in English and Ukrainian from historic and contemporary authors.

We strongly believe that books can help to connect people, and that the network of the UNESCO Cities of Literature are a symbol of both connection as well as support. The readings will happen in advance of the rally in Piccadilly Gardens in support of Ukraine that starts at 2pm.

Readings will also take place on this day in other UNESCO Cities of Literature: Edinburgh, Exeter, Iași City, Krakow, Kuhmo, Lillehammer, Ljubljana, Melbourne, Nottingham, Quebec City, Reykjavik, Tukums, Wroclaw.

Please note that we will be taking photographs and filming at this event, if you do not wish to be photographed that’s absolutely fine, but please let staff know in advance either digitally via the contact form or in person at the start of the event.

With thanks to Milan City of Literature for this initiative.