Library

Manchester Poetry Library is the fourth public poetry library in the UK, and the first based within a university — designed to widen access to poetry and support the creation and performance of new writing. It holds more than 10,000 books and recordings.

The Library space is wheelchair accessible and situated on the ground floor, with level access to both the front and rear of Grosvenor East and step-free circulation throughout the building. Accessible toilets are close to the Library entrance. Public spaces on the ground floor also include an atrium and foyer for exhibitions and events, and a café, bar and restaurant.

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A collection built with the city

With sponsorship from the Granada Foundation, the Library grows its collection to represent as many of Manchester’s 200-plus language communities as possible, sourcing recommendations directly from the community — so the books on the shelves represent the people of Manchester.

For schools and learners

The Library’s Learning Programme works directly with schools and community groups on a number of funded poetry projects, including the Comino Poet in Residence project, which pairs student poets with schools and cultural organisations. A free online course, ‘Introduction to Teaching Creative Writing’, is produced jointly with Manchester Writing School, and printed classroom resources — including a poetry scavenger hunt worksheet, postcards on poetic forms, and past Mother Tongue Other Tongue anthologies — are available to use during visits or take away.