Festival of Libraries returns with free family events in Oldham

Defeat the Librarian & Museum for Black Bodies

Manchester City of Literature has confirmed the return of Festival of Libraries between 10 June and 14 June 2026, with activities taking place across all ten boroughs.

The programme includes workshops, exhibitions, performances and interactive sessions aimed at children, families and local communities. Many events are free or operate on a pay what you can basis.

Across Greater Manchester, a May half term trail will see 500 copies of a new children’s book by singer songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae hidden in library green spaces. The book, inspired by her song Put Your Records On, will be part of a wider effort to encourage reading during the National Year of Reading.

Libraries will host events focused on creativity, wellbeing and inclusion. Activities include comic workshops, storytelling sessions and projects celebrating diverse voices in children’s literature. Community focused performances and exhibitions will also explore local identity, culture and heritage.

In Oldham, the programme features a mix of exhibitions and hands on sessions for different age groups.

Once Upon a Time runs from 21 March to 5 September at Gallery Oldham. The exhibition features artwork by five illustrators and offers a family focused space with reading areas, interactive activities and displays celebrating storytelling.

Oldham Wakes by Sophie Tyrrell is also on display at Gallery Oldham from 23 May to 5 September. The installation draws on Lancashire festival traditions and includes large scale artworks exploring environmental themes alongside contributions from local schoolchildren.

During May half term, Look For A Book will take place across Greater Manchester. Copies of Put Your Records On will be hidden in outdoor library spaces for children to find, with clues and riddles forming part of the trail.

On Thursday 11 June, Gallery Oldham will host GO Baby sessions designed for children under two and their families. The sessions focus on sensory play in a relaxed setting.

Oldham Central Library will host a videogame workshop on Saturday 13 June. The session introduces beginners to creating games using a web based tool, led by a BAFTA recognised developer.

Festival organisers say libraries continue to play an important role as community spaces offering access to learning, culture and support services. The festival also highlights Greater Manchester’s literary heritage through talks, exhibitions and creative projects.

The event won Best Event at the Manchester Culture Awards in 2024 and was recognised for inclusion in 2025.

Further details and booking information are available through local libraries and the Manchester City of Literature website.