Manchester's libraries are set to reopen their doors on Sundays, ending a 15-year hiatus that has left many residents feeling isolated from their local community. Eight branches will reintroduce Sunday opening hours in the coming months, with four starting as early as September and the remaining four following in January 2027.
The decision to reinstate Sunday services is a direct result of Manchester City Council's improved financial settlement, which allocates an extra £1.7 million to library services. Councillor Shazia Butt acknowledged that the original closures in 2011 had a significant impact on communities, who relied heavily on Sunday openings for access to essential resources and support.
The phased rollout will see Chorlton, Longsight, Newton Heath, and Withington Libraries opening on Sundays from 12:00-16:00 from September. Next year, Manchester Central Library, Didsbury Library, Forum Library (Wythenshawe), and North City Library will join the Sunday roster, operating between the same hours.
In addition to the reintroduction of Sunday services, nine other libraries are set to benefit from extended weekday opening hours. Six branches – Barlow Moor, Burnage, Fallowfield, Miles Platting, New Moston, and Northenden – will have staffed hours increased to at least 30 per week from June 22nd. Libraries located within leisure centres – Abraham Moss, Arcadia, and Hulme High Street – will also see an increase in staffed hours from September.
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, highlighted the commitment to community investment, stating that the reintroduction of Sunday hours reflects a broader strategy to enhance accessibility and provide residents with services they have not enjoyed for over a decade.