Former Corrie actress Julie Hesmondhalgh is amongst those set to appear at this year's Manchester Libraries Festival. The event, which is set to take place at venues across Greater Manchester, will run from June 15 to 19.
There will be 80 events in all, including panels, talks and workshops, at venues like the Central Library, Chetham’s Library, John Rylands, the Met and Manchester University libraries, and The Portico. Iconic Manchester poet Lemn Sissay has also been confirmed as ambassador for this year's event.
Sissay said: “A library is the loudest place on the high street, because books are bursting with very loud ideas. And yet it is where you can go for peace and quiet; amongst all that is happening in our world, peace and quiet has great value.
“Libraries change the world because people who use libraries change the world. This year’s Festival of Libraries demonstrates throughout its brilliant programme that all ages, all types, all are welcome. Your community. Your library.”
Referencing Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit writer Jeanette Winterson, Hesmondhalgh added: “As a long-time fan of Manchester City of Literature, I’m thrilled to be part of their celebration of libraries this year. I was fortunate enough to grow up with the magnificent Accrington Library, which famously changed Jeanette Winterson’s life, practically on my doorstep, as well as the tiny, less grand, but equally magical, church library even closer to home.
“I have such fond memories of choosing weekly books from the dedicated children’s section of both, and I know that I owe so much of my lifelong love of reading to those halls of knowledge.”
The Repair Shop's Jay Blades will also be making an appearance as part of the festival. After going undiagnosed with dyslexia at school, he only properly learned to read aged 51, and has become an inspiration for those who have struggled with reading into adulthood.
Among the events taking place will be the Readers In Residence, which will feature young adult author Danielle Jawondo, Oliver Sykes and Manchester spoken word collective Young Identity. Sissay will also be acting as a judge on the Shoebox Libraries contest, where children will be invited to conjure up their own dream libraries out of materials at home, with guidance from theatre designer Klaire Doyle.
Details of the festival events can be found at the Manchester Libraries Festival website.
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