Libraries are spaces of immense historical inventory, connection, and wonder. Festival of Libraries 2025 not only sees many historical milestones for venues across Greater Manchester, but the programme also includes events and workshops examining different historical moments.

125 years of the Rylands! Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion of John Rylands Library’s 125th birthday. Take a look around the brand new Collections Gallery to see over 40 remarkable objects, many on public display for the first time. The Research Centre will be open to welcome readers and you can join tours and printing demonstrations across the day with souvenirs to take home. This special anniversary will be taking place on 7th June .

Inspired by original research and filled with excitement and drama, Professor of History at Manchester Metropolitan University Catherine Fletcher will deliver a lecture centred on the medieval proverb ‘All roads lead to Rome’. You will be immersed in Rome’s legacy, considering why some routes appear on Ordnance Survey maps but are no longer in use, and why these ancient roads have such a hold on the modern imagination. The lecture will take place at the Portico Library on 6th June. 

Would you like to get creative and make your own historical mark? The Pankhurst Centre is hosting a protest banner and placard making session including an introduction to Emmeline Pankhurst and the suffragettes. This is a family-friendly arts & language activity, in which participants can draw or write slogans about things they would like to change or improve in the world. It is designed to help learners feel like their voice can be heard, and to help with exploring conversational and persuasive language techniques, but it also introduces learners to a significant part of Mancunian history. This exciting workshop takes place on 5th June. 

The May half-term will see the People’s History Museum host free craft activity ‘Mini Books Big Stories’, celebrating 90 years of Penguin Books who brought affordable fiction and non-fiction to the masses.  This paperback revolution instantly democratised literature and the covers produced by Penguin Books have become as iconic as the titles published. This is a family-friendly activity which will leave you with your very own hand-made Penguin booklet. A perfect place to let written histories, the imagination and craft collide!

What is a heritage for wellbeing toolkit? Find out and interact with it in Bolton Library on 4th June where you can join Creative Manchester and Manchester Histories in engaging in ten interactive activities aimed at enhancing wellbeing through heritage and the arts. This event is open to all and may be of particular interest to researchers in creative health, professionals in heritage, the arts, health, and social care, as well as members of the public looking to explore the power of creativity and connection.No prior knowledge of history is required!