This winter libraries will once again serve as safe community spaces for anyone in Manchester in need of shelter and support.
The Warm Welcome Spaces programme, operated across the city’s library network, will resume this year on Monday, October 20, running until February 2026.
This means that every public library in the city will remain a free, safe, welcoming and warm space for anyone who is in need this winter.
In total, all of Manchester’s 22 public libraries will be taking part in this scheme.
A range of services will be on hand for people who may need an extra bit of support.
They include:
- Free self-service hot drinks (this offer is not available at the Central Library)
- Comfortable seating and a welcoming environment
- Free internet access and Wi-Fi
- Staff support to signpost people to services that the Council provides or support agencies
- Under 5s story time once a week at 11am (please consult your local library for more information)
The Warm Welcome Spaces network is a countrywide initiative, with more than 5,300 venues having signed up to take part.
Over the 24/25 winter there were an estimated 2.6m visitors to Warm Spaces supported by a volunteer network of more than 10,000 people.
In Manchester last year, between November and February there were roughly 925,000 people who visited our network of libraries.
To find out where your closest Warm Welcome Space is, follow this link to find an interactive map.
https://www.warmwelcome.uk/find-a-space#map
Councillor Thomas Robinson, Executive Member for Healthy Manchester and Adult Social Care, said: “For many years the Council has been a proud supporter of the Warm Welcome Spaces initiative. In Manchester we have been all too aware of the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and the hardships people have suffered as a result.
“It’s not an exaggeration to say this work has the potential to be lifesaving. The simple act of offering a person a safe place where they can interact with other Mancunians, to not feel alone or get the help they need, can have a lasting and meaningful impact.”
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure, said: “Over the years the staff at our libraries have provided a huge range of support and help to residents in need. Offering a kind ear of support, a friendly smile, or pointing someone in the direction of additional help, they have made a lasting impact.
“Our libraries are safe, judgement free places for all of our residents, and if anyone is struggling this winter I would urge them to pop in and let us help them get back on their feet.”
For information:
If people need cost of living support this winter with heating bills etc they can call Manchester’s free cost of living advice line on 0800 023 2692 or text 07860 022 876. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9am-4.30pm.
Link to find your local library: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/directory/14/libraries
