Manchester Central Library is looking for Mancunians turning 90 next month to join them in a special celebratory event taking place on Wednesday 17 July – the 90th anniversary of the city landmark.
The event, which officially marks 90 years since the library was opened on 17 July 1934, is being held as part of a series of celebratory events over the summer season to mark the milestone anniversary.
Library staff have appealed for help with finding locals who fit the bill, to join them on the big day as guests of honour.
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Leisure, Skills and Employment, said: “Manchester Central Library is now one of the most visited public libraries in the country and is loved by residents and visitors alike, hosting a huge range of diverse and exciting events.
“We could not miss the opportunity to invite residents who are celebrating their 90th birthday to help share this very special occasion.”
The library was officially opened by King George V, who declared it a “splendid building” and expressed his hope that it would provide “magnificent opportunities” for the people of the city.
The striking rotunda design, inspired by the Pantheon of Rome, has made it one of our city’s landmark buildings ever since.
It underwent a mammoth £40 million renovation between 2010 and 2014, which marked a major modernisation and an extended range of services on offer to the public.
Eric Woolhouse, a Chorlton resident who turns 90 on July 10, told Mancunian Matters: “I was born just a few miles up the road from the library, a week before it opened. I’ve lived in Manchester my whole life and I’ve been a visitor to the library since I was a child.
“The library is an important building in our city and an important part of its history. As Mancunians we have to mark it.”
Celebrations at the library have been ongoing since May, with events including badge hunts across the city, book clubs and book signings.
Anybody turning 90 in July who wants to get involved with the event will be sent a special invitation to attend.
Contact Alison Hilton at [email protected] to find out more.
Feature image credit: Manchester City Council
