What an amazing and historic landmark! I would recommend anyone tour through the Library. The architecture is beautiful and the rare manuscripts and artifacts they house are incredible. They are having a special display of one of Shakespeare's plays, one of the oldest New Testaments, even artifacts from King Nebuchadnezzar's palace. They will all be on display which will be quite amazing to see. This is a must see in Manchester! Truly amazing how it has stood the test of time. read more

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Love spending time in libraries while on holiday (vacation) Stunning late-Victorian neo-Gothic library , John Rylands Library opened at the turn of the 20th century and is a gorgeous remnant of Manchester. Potter-heads would appreciate the look and feel inside the library is inspired the design for Hogwarts. I'm not sure if the Factory Records exhibit is still on display, but I'm a huge fan of Factory Records bands (ie. New Order, Joy Division, Happy Mondays etc.) and bands that came out of Manchester, the Smiths, James, Buzzcocks, The Fall to name few. It was an experience seeing original handwritten lyrics, instruments played, old punk zines, photos and badges on display. read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

I can't believe this was free. AWESOME! They were very welcoming and we explored and asked questions! Spent less than an hour here. read more

John Rylands Library - Reading library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

One of Manchester's oldest buildings, built in the late Victorian era, where it opened in 1900 - it located in the Spinningfields area of the city on Deansgate, it is a fairly short walk away from Manchester Central Library, which for me I do find better but considering they are both libraries, they are both very different and impressive in different ways. With the building work completed in 1899 - it is one of 48 Grade I listed buildings in the Greater Manchester region, and by completiton, it is around the tenth oldest building in the city of Manchester. It is over multiple floors with free exhibits - the building does feel a little older compared to MCL (Manchester Central Library) but it is and is Grade I listed means there are only so many changes they can do - most of the library is pretty nice including the hallway walking into the exhibits, currently on Peterloo (until September 2019) but I do find the staircases to be a little narrow, and only one lift can make it pretty slow too if you are going up to one of the higher floors. Remember - Photography is prohibited in certain areas which are a shame but this is to do with potentially damaging the materials which are fair enough, but you can request copies by contacting Ryland's for free which is a pretty cool idea so people can still take a look at a souvenir without damaging it for the future. John Ryland's is also now run by the University of Manchester, many staff around the library mainly on the Ground Floor are in the University colours and uniform, they did seem friendly enough but it got to the point where it became annoying as every staff member seemed to approach me like I was lost or a criminal, I'm neither - I'm happy with being greeted once at the door and then perhaps a smile or hello - like come on just let me explore on my own without being mythered every two minutes, there's being helpful and then harassing! They also run tours of the library, due to the nature of the building it can sometimes be hard to look around and follow around so I do feel they would be useful, especially for a tourist visiting the wonderful city of Manchester. The entrance and lower ground are much more modern than the rest of the building - which is probably where they refurbished recently towards the start of the 2000s. Despite multiple flaws, it is still amazing how this old building is still in use as a library and free public exhibition, there are parts of Ryland's which make me think I'm wandering through the bookroom or parts of the House of Commons, home of the British government - a great place for discovering historical content, and although it does lack in many ways compared to Manchester Central Library nearby, the most reviewed library in the city centre which is Rylands does deserve a four-star rating too! read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

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If you're visiting Manchester, I recommend going to the John Rylands Library. Of course this is not a library to check out or read books as it is now a historical site. The building and any remaining books have been preserved, but they do a good job of allowing you to see most of the building. They have some very old books that you can view behind glass, but the building architecture is also interesting to look at. read more

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A real historical gem in the centre of Manchester, it's like stepping back in time and the architecture is just stunning, nice little cafe at the entrance, it's a good free day out in Manchester. read more

I was blown away by the historical content, ambience, and architecture of the library. One of the best free afternoons I have spent. You have to enjoy history to really enjoy the exhibitions. I walked and browsed for hours . The only real improvement I could see is that I wish there were books to actually read. Most of the books here are too delicate to handle so most of the collections can only be seen online or handled after registration. read more

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This place is a visual delight, a sweet haven amidst the hustle and bustle of modern day Manchester. It's SOO peaceful inside and I could easily spend hours wandering though the building with it's stunning archways, sculptures and stained glass windows. They house a huge collection of books, including many ancient texts. The most famous has to be the St John Fragment, the oldest known piece of text from the bible, written on papyrus. As I've mentioned before, I'm a lover of all things Victorian so this 5 star review should come as no surprise! John Rylands Library is a late Victorian neo-gothic building smack bang in the middle of Deansgate. The library first opened it's doors in 1900 and was founded by John Rylands wife, in his memory. John Ryland was one of the UK's first multi millionaires (from St Helens and making his millions in the textiles industry) so you'll see his name on plaques in various buildings in Manchester, including the near by Milton Hall. The exhibitions tend to be unusual and exciting. The current Witchcraft exhibition is fascinating, the books on black magic literally sent shivers down my spine! There's a cool gift shop and a café on site. In my experience, the staff have always been super friendly and approachable. If you're in Manchester, this is a must see. read more

John Rylands Library - Current exhibition - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

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A fantastic architectural gem in the heart of Deansgate, the John Rylands library is somewhere that's perfect to chill out in for an hour or so, browsing the shelves, exhibits and just generally taking in the super relaxed, peaceful environment. If you've a relative or friend in town then it's a "must show off" must and with free entry you can just dip in and out of it - while maybe enjoying a bite to eat or a drink before or after in next door Spinningfields. There's a nice cafe and gift shop downstairs - and you are allowed to take snaps in there so get a snapping if you're in there! read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

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If, like me, you're a bit skint but can't bear to be sat on your jacksie doing nothing all day, there's no need to despair when in Manchester, as there are a number of attractions which don't require an admission fee - John Rylands Library being one of them. This pleases me immensely as one of my favourite pastimes happens to be wandering around historic sites and buildings. This huge, gothic masterpiece, situated on Deansgate, could be mistaken for a church on the outside (I suppose it is a place of worship of sorts, if you're into reading manuscripts from a long, long, LONG time ago) but once inside, this literary treasure trove will blow you away. This vast space is home to not only some of the world's oldest and most important archives, but some truly amazing architecture too. If you become a member, which I may well do, you can sit and study or read in the alcoves of the main hall, where you're certain to find absolute peace and tranquility. Although, if I do sign up, I will be tempted to don a black cloak and prance around the place with a wand in my hand, pretending I'm on my way to class (at Hogwart's, no less - I would be in Ravenclaw, just for the record). I'm no history buff so I can't give you dates and stats on the origins of the artefacts housed in John Rylands or the building itself, but that's for you to find out when you go anyway - why should I do all the hard work for you? Just kidding! :-) All you need to know is that it's a fascinating place and well worth a visit if you want an injection of FREE culture. There's a lovely cafe just next to the reception which offers an assortment of good-looking cakes (mmmm... cakes...) and a souvineer shop, which sells everything from over-sized wands - sorry - I mean PENCILS, to postcards and books. John Rylands is a must-see for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the shopping streets and indulge in something a little bit different. read more

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This is a pretty cool historical library with fascinating architecture and a great collection of important texts and artifacts. Thanks to Manchester CM Johnny Q. for the suggestion to check this place out. The staff members are really friendly and helpful. As I was exploring on my own, Wayne offered to give me a private tour. He led me on a personalized tour of the library telling me all about the building and describing some of the cool items they had in their collection. He showed me private rooms and the back hallways and the inner-workings of the library that most don't get to see. He was so knowledgeable too. In their collection is a fine paper copy of the Gutenberg Bible and St John Fragment, believed to be the oldest extant New Testament text. If you're into history, literature, or architecture, this is a must see. This is also really great if you're in Manchester and up for a quick wander as it's free to enter and explore. You could spend 15 minutes roaming around to take in the building, or longer to explore the exhibits in detail. Don't miss out on seeing the Victorian toilets in the basement! read more

Beautiful building thoroughly recommend a visit superb architechture

Went to the guardian exhibition and really enjoyed the event

I had never visited the John Rylands Library before, unfortunately I have always found myself just walking by even though it is a truly beautiful building. It is one of those places that I feel visitors to Manchester generally appreciate more than people who live in the area and I certainly have been guilty of not giving it the time it deserves. I decided I needed a bit of culture and, since I hadn't seen inside the library, I thought I would give it a go. Once I made my way inside building I could not help but be impressed. It has an almost cinematic quality and is a great example of gothic architecture, which is in stark contrast to the modern surroundings of Spinningfields. It has an incredible collection of rare books and some interesting exhibitions as well. If you have considered visiting this library before I would urge you to do so, it is an incredible building and is a piece of history that Manchester can be proud of. read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

Stunning building and credit to UoM for keeping it so well looked after! The gent on reception immediately approached us and asked us if we needed any help . Was so sweet and nice . Opted to just mosey around and have a gander. Very nice. Not somewhere I would recommend taking children below 14 ish read more

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What an amazing place, one of Manchester's hidden gems. I went to the John Ryland's library for the first time today and can't believe I have left it so long to visit. I went on one of their free tours which was an excellent introduction to the library. Our guide explained the history of the place and we were able to go into some of the rooms which aren't normally open to the public. The Gothic style architecture is amazing and I will definitely be back to make use of their public space. There is also a shop that sells really lovely gifts and a nice little café too. A great way to spend a rainy afternoon in Manchester. read more

John Rylands Library - Stunning place - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

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This is one of my favourite places in manchester to kill time. It's beautiful, and steeped in loving history, which I think makes in extra special. It's worth a look if you're into your architecture especially, parts of it almost church like, with wine glass bottom windows and sweeping dramatic arches, but fairly recently built compared to it's gothic homage. They have lovely little exhibitions on within the library itself, and a little shop of books and cards and trinkets in the entrance, and it's free in. I would definitely definitely recommend this gem. read more

The John Rylands Library is one of the prettiest libraries in Britain and at the top of Manchester's cultural attractions. There's always a special exhibition on here to be enjoyed but of course the true highlight is the impressive reading room on the top floor. Don't miss it when you are in Manchester. Admission is free but if you can, why not leave a little donation! read more

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The John Rylands is a beautiful building I could spend hours in! It's late Victorian, so younger than it looks, commissioned by Enriqueta Ryland in memory of her husband John. The library merged with the Manchester University library in the 70's (I think - I wasn't born!) There's no entrance fee and at the minute the have an exhibition on about magic and witchcraft, which was interesting. There's a little cafe next to the gift shop with a variety of books and nicknaks for sale. It's great for unusual gifts. read more

John Rylands Library - Current exhibit - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

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As a student of the University of Manchester I'm proud to claim this piece of culture as one the gems in the crown. Go inside basically, recently redeveloped John Rylands has ancient texts of all kinds for you to take in and observe. Most notably a piece of the new testament from the bible, no joke. Stare at it and you'll question reality, and then even maybe go and get baptised. John Rylands is saturated in history with one of the biggest collections in the UK; this includes pieces from Karl Marx and ancient maps of the city. If none of this interests you (your mentally inert) JR is still an shelter from the hustle and bustle from central Manchester, somewhere you can breath as it were. Also got a little shop (standard) with the classic collection of museum bit nostalgic (rubbers with JR on etc). read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

This is an amazing neo gothic building in central manchester at 100 Deansgate. It houses collections of exquisite medieval illuminated manuscripts, examples of the earliest forms of European printing including the Gutenberg Bible, as well as the personal papers of distinguished historical figures including Elizabeth Gaskell, John Dalton and John Wesley. Worth a visit for the spectacle read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

Fantastic. Was taken there by a friend on a visit to Manchester. First thing to hit me was the actual building when approaching. Built in the 1890s, the John Rylands Library is regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, I have to agree. A Victorian Gothic building, I was in my element. The rooms and hallways are stunning. The special collections, believed to be among the largest in the United Kingdom, include medieval illuminated manuscripts and examples of the earliest forms of European printing, Just love it there, and love that you can take photographs. read more

Both the glassy and white new library extension and the original building are worth a look. And whilst the red sandstone gothic exterior looming over you on the Deansgate pavement looks a bit dark and intimidating, the interior is beautifully ornate and soothing so don't judge a book by its cover! Although John Rylands Library no doubt has hidden depths of knowledge for the studious, it is also perfectly delightful for an hour or even 30-minute walk around inside. The dimly-lit corridors feel a lot like a monastery, and the stonework, wooden and stained glass ornamentation reaches its fantastic crescendo in the old Reading Room. There is a changing exhibition in the glass cases of the Reading Room, usually with a historical theme using JRL archive material. I've always found these exhibitions low-key but fascinating, and they really manage to bring the themes, the people and their stories alive. The current exhibition is on the lives of orphans in Manchester back in the day. (Apparently Manchester did a better job than most cities of looking after children with nowhere else to go, and the refuge houses were 100% funded by private donations.) An earlier exhibition was on the lives of the rich 'ladies of the house'. A new feature that I noticed on my last visit is an interactive computer screen which allows you to turn the pages of a digital copies of what can sometimes be very old and fragile books - in this case, the JRL copy of the Koran. One thing that makes me smile is the juxtaposition on Deansgate/Spinningfields of three very different glass buildings - Armani, Australasia restaurant, and the JRL extension. 'Who chooseth me....' read more

My buddy invited me to stay with him on my vacation, so I could finally get a chance to visit Jolly Olde England. (Up to that point, I had been through Heathrow several times, but never escaped the confines of the airport, because I was always on my way through to somewhere else.) Shortly after I arrived, I was looking through a map book he had, and was checking out the sites to be seen in Manchester, which was the nearest city. "There's nothing to see in Manchester", he opined. Just at that moment, my eyes lit upon the magic words, "John Rylands Library", so I retorted, "Oh yes, there is!" The library is lovely red sandstone building which looks sort of like a church. We went inside, and climbed the stairs to a large room with stained glass windows, statues along the walls, and (one of my all-time favourite fantasies) floor-to-ceiling books. I went up to a desk, and asked them if it was possible to see a particular document. We had to wait a bit, because a tour group was going through the library at the moment, and being shown the manuscript, but sure enough, they brought it out, encased in glass. After all, 1,880-year-old papyri are fragile. Yes, I saw, with my own two eyes, the fragment of John in the Rylands Library, the oldest New Testament manuscript known to exist. They brought it out and showed it to us, and explained what they knew about it, just because I asked! (While we were waiting for them to bring out the John manuscript, I noticed a copy of Captain George Vancouver's account of his travels on one shelf.) This place is a bibliophile's fantasy come true. read more

A beautiful building with a grand facade you cannot help but notice when walking down Deansgate. Although ultra-modern Spinningfields sits alongside it, the stunning architecture contrasts nicely, and means it doesn't get forgotten about by visitors to the city. Despite working alongside John Rylands for over a year now, it was only on a cold and wet lunchtime recently that I ventured in with a colleague. We'd heard a lot about the current Magic, Witches and Devils exhibition and thought it would be a good place to stretch our legs. You enter through a modern extension but don't let this put you off; just upstairs are the seemingly endless hallways and huge dark wooden doors your gothic heart dreams of. Maps are available at the front desk - you could easily get lost - and there's no limit to the amount of time you can spend here. The exhibition itself was interesting, hosted in one of the hallways upstairs, but it really was the architecture and intricate detailing that caught my eye. They often have small events or interactive sessions for children; this half term it was 'magical' creatures such as owls and lizards which you could sit with and have a photo taken (we were assured that adults were more than welcome, but the queue sadly meant it was not to be!) Well worth an explore if you're in the area. read more

The John Rylands was one of the first places in Manchester that I visited. And now I keep popping back in just to experience being in such a beautiful space surrounded by such glorious books. It is wonderful that you can just come and hang out here whenever you want - it is my go-to place when the Manchester drizzle has set in. Make sure you check out the Victorian toilets in the basement and the reading room. The exhibitions are always interesting and informative although it would be great to have more information about the library itself. There is very little signage about its history and you have to buy the book to find out more. read more

Been meaning to visit for the last few years and finally made it on Sunday afternoon. It was free entry and they had an exhibition about Magic, Witches and Devils in the Early Modern World on. The mini exhibition was interesting but not why we went. The building is as beautiful as they say. The late Victorian architecture is stunning and well maintained. As well as being one of Manchester's hidden gems of a tourist site, it's still a library so if you fancy a quite day of revision or course work then get down here and connect to Eduroam and you're away. They also have a cafe and a small gift shop! read more

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Deansgate Library is an absolute joy for a student of Medieval Literature such as myself (this is not all I study). The manuscript collections held are nothing short of unbelievable. They hold great collections of Chuacer's works as well as many less famous relics from the past. In addition to the material, you get to read in the perfect environment, a blend of the modern and the old that's both quaint and classy. Glass panels and walls surround tables and chairs that look like they, like the books, are from the Middle Ages, only they're in mint condition. You have to read there as most of the books, if not all, are reference only. You also may need to use a foam book holder to protect the precious pages and a rope to hold the pages apart, to stop your grubby modern fingers from contaminating the Medieval script. You may see this as annoying but for me it all contributes to the charm. The John Ryland's Deasngate is one of the real centre-pieces of Manchester University, and as a city in which the university is an important centre. Its one of the tings that contributes to the aura of Manchester as a pioneering centre of knowledge, development and learning. read more

Lovely Victorian building. Be sure to check out the Victorian toilets despite of the smell.

Just stunning. A touching and grand tribute from Mrs John Ryland to his memory is this epic library and museum space. So Gothic and opulent with changing exhibitions and a big ole library this is a must do when visiting the city. It's free to visit and utterly charming. Watch out you don't get in the way of all the armature photographers! read more

This is one of the top libraries in the entire country. The building itself is an amazing work of gothic architecture and the collections inside it are simply amazing. It's free to get in and has an amazing collection. Deansgate itself is a great place to go when you visit the city and so go along and make sure to see the library when you're there. A great place to relax and to enjoy some of this country's rich history. read more

Wow. Wow at the amazing gothic architecture. Wow at the ancient texts within. Wow at the fact that hardly anyone I speak to has even been here. Go now. It's free. There are very old editions of the Bible (which I was lucky enough to look at in detail as part of my course) and the library displays a 1476 William Caxton edition of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, thought to be the first book printed in England. Aside from the thousands of old tomes (many of which are hidden away), there are some really interesting exhibitions. But please don't confuse this with the John Rylands University Library. JRL is on Deansgate, and JRUL is just off Oxford Road. JRUL is not quite so spectacular and is not open to the general public. JRL is the only library I have ever been to that has the wow factor. read more

Disappointed with the state of the main John Rylands University library on Oxford Road, I was miserable at the prospect of spending my days, afternoons and nights in that stupidly organised, nightmare of a place. So this was the University library, the hub of student imagination and intelligizing. Great. When I discovered John Rylands on Deansgate, known as special collections to definitely not mistake it with the other, I was so overwhelmed. Not only is it ten minutes wander from my home but just look at the place. It looks quite scary from the outside, with its intricate neo-gothic architecture but I can tell you if you go inside, you'll be fascinated with its beauty. It houses a collection of very old medieval stuffs and very early forms of European prints in general. I sit in the Elvesier Reading room on the third floor with my laptop to work. It unfortunately doesn't have any books related to my course but I enjoy this place for what it is which is enough for when I need to just type or read my online journals. It's often not one hundred percent quiet as there's often tours going on, if not the odd curious tourist lapping up the not to be missed in Manchester. There's often things on for the family and the children such as a storytelling workshop which was held recently. There's a little cafe downstairs also which is handy for the spot of caffeine and tea for a break from the reading. I'm thankful for this alternative to the daily grime of the library on Oxford Road. If only it was 24 hour opening times.. read more

The John Rylands Library on Deansgate is truly the architectural masterpiece of Manchester. The building strikes a dominating figure on Deansgate, and has lost none of its impact. Its glorious gothic façade has such gravitas, the building exudes class and history, and lulls you inside. Reopened after extensive restoration, refurbishment and extension, the John Rylands Library is one of the most important historical collections of manuscripts in the UK and, amonst other items, holds an original printed copy of the New Testament. Recently extended with a fantastic new building, the library can be used as a resource for students at the University (and to study in their main library would be a dream - the building is stunning), as well as a venue for lectures and literary themed events. In this way, the John Rylands Library is not just for books, but for the arts as well, as it offers itself as a platform for new writers, new initiatives and plays host to some of the biggest names in literature, who sometimes give talks here. It is a fantastic boon for Manchester, and should be appreciated more and more. read more

Basically, the library to end all libraries. I bet it's more impressive than the great library. It certainly is now anyway. I never really got to grips with library study, being confused by the Dewy decimal system, and distracted by the girls. But, I did love the range of incredibly geeky books here. Good times! read more

What an amazingly beautiful building. I took a day trip from Leeds to see the library and hang out in Manchester for a bit. It's very peaceful and quiet-- of course a library but still more than your typical library. Have your cameras ready. read more

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John Rylands Library, Deansgate is one of Manchester's treasures. Founded in 1889 the library houses Manchester University's Special Collections. Their catalogue includes the personal papers of well known historical figures including Elizabeth Gaskell, John Dalton and John Wesley. Though well-known to students and academics (that's how I first became aware of it), the library is perhaps lesser known to the general public. With two forms of ID anyone over the age of 18 can register to become a reader. It's a closed access library, which means you have to request the books and manuscripts by filling in a form and you can't take them away with you. A great way to get to learn about the collections is to visit one of their exhibitions, of which there are many. The gothic building itself is also worthy of note and a reason in itself to visit. read more

A lovely welcoming feel to the library with friendly helpful staff, good facilities (I particularly liked the lockers in the basement) and great activities and facilities for children. We had a lovely afternoon hunting for dragon eggs and looking at the exhibits. I particularly liked the portraits and the textile designs around the theme of grief. I highly recommend a visit. read more

John Rylands Library - Beautiful - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

A stunningly beautiful library, part of the University of Manchester, the John Rylands Library is free and easy to visit, and is a superb place to spend some time. The architecture is amazing, the collection is world class, and the atmosphere is peaceful. A must see for any Manchester visitor. read more

This is probably my favorite spot in all of Manchester, it is incredibly beautiful. I wanted to take a picture of everything. It's open from 10-5, I would recommend dedicating at least a couple hours of your day here to look, read, and take pictures. read more

John Rylands Library - Libraries Near Me - Manchester, XGM

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