People across Manchester will soon be able to get even more out of their local libraries with Sunday opening announced for eight venues and extended opening for nine more. From September this year four of the city’s libraries will now be open on Sundays, with an additional four coming in January 2027. This marks the first time since 2011 that libraries will open on Sundays.
Why are Manchester libraries now opening on Sundays?
Sunday opening was one of the casualties of austerity under the previous Government, when Manchester was one of the places hardest hit by the impact of cuts. With a now improved budget, which recently topped £1bn for the first time, this announcement is a positive example of the Council being able to build back what was lost during austerity.
This has been made possible through £1.7m of extra funding for libraries which has also seen increased investment in the libraries’ book fund, and events budget.
More than ever the libraries in Manchester have become sanctuaries for so many residents. From providing exciting and educational experiences for youngsters, to hosting thoughtful debate and discussion evenings, to being accessible for anyone to take shelter from heat or cold, they are truly an invaluable resource.
Open on Sundays from September each week, 12-4pm:
- Chorlton Library
- Longsight Library
- Newton Heath Library
- Withington Library
Open on Sundays from January each week, 12-4pm:
- Manchester Central Library
- Didsbury Library
- Forum Library (Wythenshawe)
- North City Library
On top of this, an additional six libraries will be expanding their hours of operation, starting from Monday, 22 June; and from September three libraries operating in leisure centres will also increase their library staffed hours.
Libraries now staffed for at least 30 hours a week, from Monday 22 June:
- Barlow Moor Library
- Burnage Library
- Fallowfield Library
- Miles Platting Library
- New Moston Library
- Northenden Library
Increased library staffed hours from September at the libraries housed in the following leisure centres:
- Abraham Moss Library
- Arcadia Library
- Hulme High Street Library
Councillor Shazia Butt, Executive Member for Culture, Libraries and Leisure, said: “I’m incredibly pleased that after such a long absence we’re bringing back Sunday opening hours at eight of our city’s libraries.
“We know what a huge miss they have been, and we know the impact that it had all those years ago when we were forced to cut hours. However, with a much-improved financial settlement for the Council we’re able to give our residents the services that not only they want, but they deserve.
“Alongside this we’re also working to expand opening hours of a further nine locations, ensuring that the services on offer are even more accessible throughout the week.
“Over the years the staff who work across our libraries service have created a great environment for anyone who pays us a visit. From our youngest residents to our oldest there is a place for everyone and I’m sure this news will be a welcome surprise.”
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “When we announced our recent budget, our largest ever, we said from the get-go we wanted to see more investment in our communities and our services.
“With the resumption of Sunday hours we are delivering on that pledge, giving back to our residents what they have not enjoyed for almost 20 years.
“This is a fantastic example of where our priorities are and how the Council is committed to delivering tangible and meaningful change for our communities.”
