Welcome

Chetham's Library was founded in 1653 and is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world. It is an independent charity and remains open to readers and visitors free of charge.

The Library began acquiring books in August 1655, and has been adding to its collections ever since. As well as a fine collection of early printed books, the collections include a wealth of ephemera, manuscript diaries, letters and deeds, prints, paintings and glass lantern-slides.

You can explore some of Chetham's treasures, search the online catalogue and find out more about our collections by following the links in the menu above.

Chetham's Library is open Monday to Friday 9.00-12.30 a.m. and 1.30-4.30 p.m. Please make an appointment if you wish to read.

Chetham's Library
Long Millgate
M3 1SB
0161 834 7961
librarian@chethams.org.uk

Chetham's Library Publications

Several publications about the history of the Library are available to buy here, along with a limited number of high-quality facsimile reprints.

The Axon Ballad Collection

Chetham's is pleased to host the Lancashire and Cheshire Antiquarian Society's collection of broadsides here.

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Chetham's Treasures Digitised

We are delighted to announce that a number of our eighteenth century periodicals and six Middle English manuscripts have been digitised and made available online. Read more...

Reasons to be Cheerful: Latest Acquisitions

Our latest exhibition, Reasons to be Cheerful, is a diverse snapshot of recent additions to the Library's collections. Read more...

Collaborative Doctoral Students

In collaboration with the AHRC and Keele University. Read more...

Photography at Chetham's

In recent weeks, the Library has provided the backdrop for several photographic shoots. Read more...