Chorlton Library to undergo major refurbishment with hidden feature to be brought back into use

A ‘unique’ south Manchester building is set for a major refurbishment that will reveal a previously-hidden dome.

Chorlton Library will undergo a revamp, with work starting later this month. Once it fully reopens next year, the grade-II listed building will boast new meeting rooms, longer opening hours, and improved stonework and windows.

The building opened in 1914, and was a gift from the famous Scottish-American benefactor Andrew Carnegie to the city of Manchester, having been designed by the City Architect, Henry Price — the man behind Didsbury Library. Now, it is one of the last libraries to benefit from the council’s renewal programme, said John Hacking, executive councillor for leisure.

“It is a unique building, a great asset to the city and one of our oldest libraries,” he added. “It is a much-loved library and continues to be at the heart of the Chorlton community as it has been for the last 100 years. 

“This work will bring it right up to date and ensure it continues to be better equipped to serve the local community and fit for purpose for the next 100 years and more as well as meeting our sustainability plans and carbon neutral targets. As one of the busiest libraries in the city, I know it will be missed but I can assure you that the revamp will be worth the wait.”

The library will close for a fortnight from March 24, and will partially reopen from April 8 with free internet and Wi-Fi, a small selection of stock, and a reservation pick up point. It will fully reopen in 2025.