Chetham's Library
Founded in 1653, it is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, where Marx and Engels once studied and wrote at a table by the window.
Chetham's Library occupies a 15th-century sandstone building. It was founded in 1653 under the will of the merchant Humphrey Chetham and is the oldest free public library still operating in an English-speaking country. Its wooden bookcases, chained bookcases and medieval cloisters are well preserved. In 1845, Marx and Engels studied economics at a table in the bay window of the reading room, and that table is still there. Visits require a guided tour booked in advance through the official website, which has a fee and limited time slots, so book early. It is next to Chetham's School of Music, beside Victoria station.
Opening hours
Guided tours by reservation, usually Mon–Fri (check website)
Nearby sights
- Manchester Cathedral
- National Football Museum
- Royal Exchange Theatre
- St Ann's Square & St Ann's Church
- Manchester Town Hall & Albert Square
- John Rylands Library
- Manchester Art Gallery
- Manchester Central Library