Enriqueta Rylands founded The John Rylands Library to remember her husband, filling it with books that she bought for the people of Manchester.

The Forgotten Library exhibition explores the personal collection she kept at Longford Hall, south Manchester; her home, filled with old and new, beautiful and plain, luxurious and useful books.

After her death in 1908, Enriqueta Rylands left all these books, manuscripts and engravings to The John Rylands Library. While Longford Hall no longer stands therefore, there are traces of this forgotten library running through the shelves of the Rylands.

Through ledgers, lists and letters, discover the books Enriqueta treasured at home. Uncover her passion for first editions and autographs of beloved authors and experience the beauty of this forgotten library through intricately decorated medieval manuscripts and modern fine bindings.

Please check the library opening times before planning your visit.