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Library · Manchester, Inglaterra
John Rylands Library
The neo‑Gothic library from 1900 on Deansgate, with a historic church‑like reading room and rare manuscripts, including the oldest known fragment of the New Testament. Admission is free; check before you go.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About John Rylands Library
The John Rylands Library is a neo-Gothic library on Deansgate in central Manchester, built by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband John Rylands, the city's wealthiest industrialist in the 19th century. Designed by Basil Champneys, it opened in 1900 and today belongs to the Universidade de Manchester. The red sandstone building looks like a cathedral, with towers, vaults and stained glass.
The historic reading room, on the first floor, is shaped like a church nave, with stone vaults, niches with carved wooden bookcases, stained glass and statues of figures from literature, science and religion. It is still used by researchers, and visitors move quietly along the sides. The building was one of the city's first with electric lighting.
The special collections include illuminated medieval manuscripts, rare books, one of the early printed editions by Gutenberg, first editions of Shakespeare and the Papiro Rylands P52, a small fragment of the Gospel of John considered the oldest known text of the New Testament, displayed on occasion. Temporary exhibitions show items from the collection.
Admission is usually free; check in advance. The library also runs short guided tours at certain times.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
On weekdays in the morning, when the reading room is quieter and light comes through the stained glass. Check opening times, which may be reduced on Sundays and Mondays.
How to get there
It is on Deansgate in central Manchester, about a 10-minute walk from the St Peter's Square tram stop and 5 minutes from Spinningfields.
Tip
Go straight up to the historic reading room and walk quietly along the sides, looking at the niches and statues. Ask about the times for the short guided tours.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about John Rylands Library
Does the John Rylands Library charge admission?
Entry is usually free. Confirm beforehand.
What is the Papiro Rylands P52?
A small fragment of the Gospel of John, considered the oldest known text of the New Testament, displayed on some occasions.
Can you enter the reading room?
Yes. Visitors walk quietly along the sides while researchers use the tables.