Home / Business and Economy / Manchester Libraries Reopen Sundays After 15 Years
Manchester Libraries Reopen Sundays After 15 Years
21 Jun
Summary
- Manchester libraries are resuming Sunday opening hours after a 15-year hiatus.
- Eight library venues will eventually be open on Sundays, starting in September.
- An extra £1.7 million in council funding will extend opening hours for more libraries.
Sunday opening hours are making a comeback at Manchester libraries after a 15-year gap. Starting in September, eight library venues will be accessible on Sundays, with four additional locations to follow in January 2027. This restoration of weekend services is supported by an increased council budget, which provides an extra £1.7 million for library enhancements.
Councillor Shazia Butt highlighted the significance of this change, acknowledging the community's strong desire for the return of Sunday hours, which were previously cut in 2011 due to budget constraints. From September, Chorlton, Longsight, Newton Heath, and Withington libraries will open from 12:00 to 16:00 on Sundays.
Further expanding access, Manchester Central Library, Didsbury Library, Forum Library, and North City Library will also offer Sunday hours from January 2027. Additionally, six libraries will benefit from extended weekday hours starting June 22, and increased staffed hours will be implemented in other leisure centre libraries from September, demonstrating a significant investment in community services.
