Harry Potter: A History of Magic Exhibition

Manchester Central Library is proud to host a display inspired by the British Library’s new exhibition Harry Potter: A History of Magic.

From Friday 20 October 2017, visitors will be able to discover fascinating facts about the History of Magic at Manchester Central Library. Displays will launch simultaneously in 20 public libraries across the UK in tandem with the Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibition at the British Library in London.

The series of displays across the UK will include specially designed panels which are inspired by Harry Potter: A History of Magic, showing images of rare books, manuscripts and magical objects featured in the British Library’s exhibition, as well as images of material from J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury’s own collections. Manchester Central Library’s local connections to magic and folklore will also be showcased, and will include unique items from our Special and Archive Collections.  We will also be hosting a series of events including live screenings from the British Library, a chance to handle some of our rarest and oldest books and a special Sunday opening.

Harry Potter: A History of Magic celebrates the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, combining centuries-old British Library treasures with original material from Bloomsbury’s and J.K. Rowling’s own archives. Based on the subjects studied at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, this exhibition will showcase material from J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury’s own collections, going on display for the very first time.