Explore our Rainbow Library collection of the best writing and illustration from young LGBTQIA+ writers in Manchester.

The Rainbow Library is a UK and Ireland-wide participatory literature creation and publishing project developed by Pop-Up CIC. It was developed to address the near-invisibility of – and demand for – LGBTQ+ inclusive stories in children’s books. Over two years, 10 LGBTQ+ authors (writers, illustrators; some working in pairs, some alone) produced eight new book titles (representing eight colours in the Pride flag) for a wide age range of readers. Each book was conceived and developed during creative workshops, run by the authors, with groups of LGBTQ+ young people in eight cities.

In 2022 a group organised by Manchester City of Literature began writing their stories, which are now on display during the Festival of Libraries 2024, come and visit, read the stories and celebrate LGBTQ+ writing.

The Rainbow Library Exhibition will only be accessible to the public on Wednesday from 10 until 5 and from 11 until 2 on Saturday during the Clothes Swap event (linked below). Please do book a ticket below to keep updated.