The John Rylands Library is one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture in Europe and is indisputably one of the great libraries of the world, housing among the UK’s largest collection of rare books and manuscripts.

For those encountering the John Rylands Library for the first time, the word “library” may not suffice to capture its grandeur. Rather, this architectural marvel is more reminiscent of a castle or cathedral!

Exploring its atmospheric Reading Room and intricately carved corridors is a journey through history, where time stands still, enveloped in the echoes of centuries gone by. Even the original Victorian lavatories feature ornate ledges for bustles, harkening back to the fashion of yesteryears.

Within the John Rylands Library’s hallowed halls, discover treasures beyond compare. Among them, the St. John Fragment, one of the oldest known pieces of the New Testament, alongside exquisite illuminated medieval manuscripts, a Gutenberg Bible, a 1476 William Caxton edition of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, and the most extensive compilation of editions from the Aldine Press of Venice.

ADDRESS
John Rylands Institute & Library, 150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH

TELEPHONE

0161 306 0555

EMAIL
jrl.visitors@manchester.ac.uk

OPENING TIMES
For more information and opening times visit the website.

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