Central Library is a spectacular domed shaped building not far from the city centre.

For students who have their University Campuses, this library is unlikely to be the first choice since the book range is vast but not specialised like University Libraries are.

But it is a great library to go to if you want commercial fiction, or the technical library for things like phone books, or the Chinese Library if you read Chinese, and the general readers area, which has the giant dome (say something and it will echo throughout) is also the area if you want to get a book out of storage.

The atmosphere is amazing to work in. The downside is the PC's they have which house a not so comprehensive search system but you can always ask the staff if you get stuck!

Perched at the end of Oxford Road, the Central Library is one of Manchester's most distinct landmarks.
With excellent facilities (free internet use for Manchester residents, extensive collections of DVDs and CDs rental etc.) and friendly staff; it's just a shame that more local people don't use it.
It's worth taking a peak into the impressive the central reading room to take a look at the domed ceiling- just make sure you're nice and quiet!

Central Library is an amazing architectural sight. It houses thousands of books from across the globe and provides facilities such as Microfilm, Internet usage, a large art house DVD collection and a local history centre. In the basement of the library is the amazing Library theatre, with regular plays on everything from black comedy to Shakespeare to abstract/ alternative shows. Also on offer are free classes, seminars and one-to-one tutoring for the less-PC Literate. The staff are friendly and I would 100% recommend Central Library.