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📍 John Rylands Library
The John Rylands Library is a Victorian neo-gothic building in Manchester. It was officially opened in 1900. It is currently part of the Manchester University Library and is classified as a British Class 1 protected building. Neo-Gothic architecture was very popular in the 19th century, symbolizing the fine craftsmanship and social harmony of the pre-industrial era (far from the reality of society in Victorian England). This choice of architectural style has given Manchester a cultural heritage comparable to that of an old college town.
John Rylands was one of the largest textile entrepreneurs in England during the Victorian era, and made a huge fortune by producing and distributing textiles in Manchester. Manchester is known as the “Cotton Capital” because of its booming cotton industry. After John's death in 1888, his wife Enriqueta Rylands began construction of this library the following year and commissioned the production of this statue to honor her husband.
The library took ten years to build, and as a result, Enriquita became the first woman to receive the Manchester Medal of Freedom. Her statue was made after her death. It was made by the same sculptor as John's, and the two statues stand at opposite ends of the library. The couple believed in the importance of self-improvement and education, and Enriquita hoped the library would be a catalyst for cultural, social and religious progress in Manchester and beyond.
Enrique Tahan chose the motto “Nihil sine labore” for the library, which means “nothing without labor”. She was closely involved in the design and construction of the library, and every detail in the construction showed her vision for the library. Her personal crest is engraved above the historic entrance, and the unfolded books and cross symbolize her emphasis on reading and Christianity.
The library is made of Cambrian sandstone and high-quality Yorkshire hard blue stone. The stone is carved into an impressive arch and decorated with portraits of mythical creatures, symbols, and historical figures, including Shakespeare and Gutenberg.
The layout of the reading room is similar to that of a church. The glass embedded in the high windows allows soft light to penetrate and obscures the view of the outside world, making the library an inspiring space for scholars to study and research. I feel very relaxed here. It feels like I'm far from the hustle and bustle of the present day, isolated from the world, and I want to read quietly here.
Enriquita purchased early Bibles, colored manuscripts, and modern reference books for the John Rylands Library. Currently, the library has a collection of more than 1.4 million items, spanning nearly 5,000 years of history, from books, manuscripts, files, maps, works of art, etc. The oldest collection includes clay tablets and Egyptian papyrus from ancient Mesopotamia (Iraq) thousands of years ago, documenting rich traditions from around the world.
The bookcases, tables, and chairs in the library are all original designs. The bookcases are designed to be safe and sealed, and are equipped with a unique lock system. Enriquita is very concerned about the maintenance of her collection. She uses advanced technology, such as using electricity instead of gas to run the building, and using an air filtration system to protect the collection from dust.
The library has always upheld Enriquita's original intention to allow visitors to enter and study the collection free of charge. The John Rylands Research Institute (John Rylands Research Institute) brings together library professionals, humanists, and scientists to jointly research the collection and uncover new perspectives. They are dedicated to the research and protection of heritage materials and to nurture the next generation of scholars.
How do I get to John Rylands Library?
Walk 20 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly train station or take the free bus 1/2.
💡 Location: 150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH (Google Maps)Please click here)
💡 Opening hours: 10AM — 5PM (Wednesday to Saturday)
💡 Within the UK:Buy a transport card and get 1/3 off UK trains and London Underground all year round
💡 Train orders：Use Omio to order train and bus tickets to Manchester [New users enjoy instant €10 discount! ]
💡 Flight ticket order：Use Skyscanner to compare airfares to Manchester Airport to find the best date and time!
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