Books That Matter
Libraries are places where books move and people meet, past and present, real and imagined. That’s how great stories begin. Inspired by The Forgotten Library exhibition at The John Rylands Library, our Books That Matter event on 12 June invites you to take part in a simple act of exchange. Choose a book that you would recommend to another reader, take it along to The John Rylands Library, and pick up a book that someone else has decided to gift.
Please note that you will need to sign up in advance to take part. Registration is free and you can find out more on Eventbrite. Those under 18 will need a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.
Books That Matter is based on a reading-promotion activity by Atrapavientos and is a collaboration between Manchester City of Literature and Creative Manchester at The University of Manchester for the Festival of Libraries 2026.
Price: Free (registration required)
Date: Friday 12 June 2026
Time: 10:30am-4:30pm
Location: The John Rylands Library, 150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH
On the day there will also be curator tours of the new exhibition, The Forgotten Library: Enriqueta Rylands and her books.
- Find out more about what’s on at The John Rylands Library. The Library is free to enter and open to visitors Wednesday–Saturday, 10am-5pm (last entry 4:40pm).
- Please contact jrl.events@manchester.ac.uk with any questions.