Central Library

Central Library is a grand, unmissable building located in St Peter’s Square. The second largest library in the country was built in the 1930s and more recently went through a huge refurbishment project, bringing even more invaluable resources to Manchester. While most of the library's original decor has been restored to maintain its history, the refurb has modernised the building and has made it feel like new. As well as the hundreds of thousands of books stacked across four floors, the building really is more than just a library. The Media Lounge provides the latest digital technology, creative computer software, and games consoles, while The British Film Institute Mediatheque holds over 2,000 films and TV programmes, which are all free to access and watch. With new discoveries and old favourites, many titles have either rarely been seen or have never been broadcast at all. The centre’s new Secret Garden themed children’s library stocks a huge collection of kid’s books as well as interactive features. Despite the modernisation, the library still holds a number of rare, historical books and collections specially stored and only available to see by appointment. The building’s ever-winding corridors lead to a number of rooms now used as event spaces available to hire for receptions and conferences, and the library is also available for weddings. The library strives to support the community — as well as giving free access to computers, the Business and Intellectual Property Centre helps people start their own businesses, providing data and information as well as access to advisors to get people started. There are events and classes for all ages, ranging from film making groups, children’s coding sessions and local history talks, and The Henry Watson Music Library also provides resources to rehearse and record music for free. [Charlotte Davies]