Reading, Rhyming, Remembering: Children's education from the Past
Library, St. Peters Square, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M2 5PD
Discover the storybook world of early childhood learning at Manchester Council’s Heritage Open Day. This special exhibition showcases a rich collection of children’s books published Pre-20th Century and Early 1900s with some older material from the previous centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into how young minds were shaped through literature. From 17th-century spelling books and moral tales to 19th-century fairy stories and educational chapbooks, the display reveals how storytelling, rhyme, and repetition were central to teaching reading, values, and imagination. Visitors will encounter beautifully illustrated texts, religious tracts, nature guides, and playful primers that reflect the evolving techniques used in schools and homes. Whether it’s Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, Aesop’s fables, or Victorian nursery rhymes, each book tells a tale of how children once learned to navigate the world. Ideal for families, educators, and literature lovers, this event invites you to explore the roots of children’s education and the enduring power of books to inspire, instruct, and delight.
Library, St. Peters Square, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M2 5PD
Café The café is located on the ground floor of the Manchester Central Library. It serves a selection of tea, coffee and hot chocolate. There is also a variety of hot and cold food to choose from including: breakfast rolls, pastries, sandwiches, toasties, baked potatoes, soup. Plus, delicious cakes and brownies. All available from Monday to Saturday, our opening times are: Monday to Thursday: 9am to 6.30pm Friday to Saturday: 9am to 4.30pm The café is fully accessible and baby change facilities, and a nursing room are available on site.
For Further information about the library please visit this link: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/