Reading Room

Our Reading Room is located within the Special Collections Museum, on the 3rd floor of Manchester Met’s Library. The entrance to the Reading Room is about halfway down the Gallery, on the left hand side. The door is usually kept closed (to help us regulate the temperature and humidity) but don’t be put off by that. It’s a great space to study our collections and archives up close and get help with your research.

Inside the Reading Room you’ll find open access shelves that house our book collections: Artists’ Books, Book Design and Children’s Books. You’ll also find our Zine Collection, historical art and design journals and books from the Manchester Society of Architects Library.

The Reading Room is open Monday-Friday from 10.00am to 4.00pm. You’re welcome to drop-in (which is really useful if you already know what you’re looking for) or, if you need some help with your research, you can book an appointment in advance. There’s always a member of staff in the Reading Room who can help with your enquiries.

Inside the Reading Room you’ll find large study tables for viewing the books (and other material you have requested). There are lockers for the storage of coats and bags and you may be asked to wear disposable, non-allergenic gloves while you are handling items. Note-taking and sketching (pencils only) and photography (for educational and research purposes)are permitted and you can bring a laptop.