
Working Class Movement Library
A vital archive preserving over 200 years of working-class history, offering unique insights into social movements and activism.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Guided tours offer deeper access

Working Class Movement Library
Best Time
Guided tours offer deeper access

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital archive preserving over 200 years of working-class history, offering unique insights into social movements and activism.
"A fantastic and valuable archive with friendly, welcoming staff, well worth a visit for anyone interested in socialist politics."

🔔 Ring the Bell to Enter
Don't forget to ring the bell to gain entry; it's a unique part of the experience!
📅 Book Guided Tours
For access to upstairs collections, book a guided tour, usually on Fridays at 2 PM.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peterloo Massacre Artefacts
Ground floor displays
See rare artifacts from the 1819 Peterloo Massacre, a pivotal moment in British working-class history.
Chartist and Suffragette Collections
Archival displays
Explore documents and memorabilia from the Chartist and Suffragette movements, showcasing historical struggles for rights.
Thomas Ellison's Scrapbook
Special collections (tour access)
Discover the poignant writings and art of a WWI conscientious objector, offering a personal glimpse into wartime experiences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Archives
A Unique Perspective
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔔 Ring the Bell to Enter
Don't forget to ring the bell to gain entry; it's a unique part of the experience!
📅 Book Guided Tours
For access to upstairs collections, book a guided tour, usually on Fridays at 2 PM.
💖 Support the Charity
As a charity, donations and word-of-mouth are vital. Consider visiting their shop for meaningful souvenirs.
📚 Research & Reading Room
A quiet reading room is available for those wishing to delve into the collections.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔔 Ring the Bell to Enter
Don't forget to ring the bell to gain entry; it's a unique part of the experience!
📅 Book Guided Tours
For access to upstairs collections, book a guided tour, usually on Fridays at 2 PM.
💖 Support the Charity
As a charity, donations and word-of-mouth are vital. Consider visiting their shop for meaningful souvenirs.
📚 Research & Reading Room
A quiet reading room is available for those wishing to delve into the collections.
🗣️ Friendly & Welcoming Staff
Expect very friendly and knowledgeable staff and volunteers eager to share insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Working Class Movement Library for its fascinating and extensive collections, friendly staff, and unique focus on working-class history. The guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the archives. Some note its distinctly 'left-wing' perspective, which is to be expected given its subject matter.
"Our guide, Julie, was showing us this Julibee House inside out, from rooms, books, to boxes. She kept the journey relaxing and fun! We were able to learn some insights from the workers there and touch some valuable collections.
It's free for everyone, but upstairs only open with the guided tour, and it was 2pm on a Friday.
Highly recommend anyone drop by their shop, most people from our group found those badges are quite interesting and meaningful, as same as the torte bag.
Don't forget to ring the bell to get in!"
NANA DESIGN
"The library, which spans more than 200 years of working-class history, is located in Salford's Grade II listed Jubilee House. It provides tours, activities, and exhibitions and is accessible to the general public for research purposes."
Munir Jibrin
"Interesting little place with very friendly staff.
The upper floors are only available on a Friday tour and I would only recommend going if you have one.
It's very left wing, however that's to be expected and I didn't mind the bias, even tho I'm quite centrist.
You can ask for a book to read and there is a nice reading room to relax in.
Finally, there is a lot of information boards on the ground floor going into the history of the independent labour party.
(Thanks again for showing me around even though the tour wasn't running.)
Would only recommend for people into left wing political history."
M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The library is located in Salford, just outside Manchester city centre. It's accessible by public transport, with local bus routes serving the area. If driving, check for nearby parking options.
Yes, general admission to the library is free for everyone. However, access to certain collections or special exhibitions might involve a fee or require booking a tour.
Opening hours can vary, but the ground floor is generally accessible. Guided tours, which provide access to upstairs collections, are typically held on Fridays at 2 PM. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The library is a valuable resource for research into working-class history, socialist politics, and social movements. They have a reading room available for visitors.
Yes, it's an excellent option for a day trip from Manchester. Its location in Salford makes it easily accessible, and it offers a unique historical perspective that differs from typical city centre attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the Working Class Movement Library is free. However, if you wish to join a guided tour to see the upstairs collections, it's advisable to book in advance, especially as these are often limited.
Guided tours are typically offered on Fridays at 2 PM. These tours are highly recommended for a comprehensive experience of the library's collections.
You can walk in and explore the ground floor displays freely. For access to the more extensive upstairs collections, a guided tour is usually required.
The library occasionally hosts special events, exhibitions, and activities. It's worth checking their website or social media channels for announcements about upcoming events.
The library welcomes group visits and can often arrange tours or talks for groups. It's best to contact them directly to discuss your group's needs and to book a visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The library holds vast collections of books, pamphlets, archives, and artifacts spanning over 200 years of working-class history, including materials from the Chartist and Suffragette movements, and the Peterloo Massacre.
The ground floor of the library is generally accessible. However, access to the upper floors, where many of the archives are housed, may be limited for those with mobility issues, as it's an older building. It's advisable to contact them directly to inquire about specific accessibility needs.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as friendly, welcoming, and fascinating. It's a place where you can learn and reflect on significant historical movements.
While photography policies can vary, it's generally a good idea to ask permission before taking extensive photos, especially of archival materials. The building itself and some displays may be suitable for photos.
Guided tours offer an in-depth look at the library's collections, led by knowledgeable staff or volunteers. You'll learn about key historical movements and see unique artifacts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The library is located in Salford, which has various cafes and eateries nearby. For more extensive dining options, you can easily travel back towards Manchester city centre.
Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the library's main collection areas to protect the historical materials. There might be designated areas or nearby cafes.
The Working Class Movement Library does not typically have its own cafe or restaurant. Visitors are usually advised to use nearby establishments for refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's always best to ask staff for permission before taking pictures, especially of archival items. Some general areas or displays might be fine for photos.
The Victorian architecture of Jubilee House, the building housing the library, can be photogenic. Displays of historical artifacts and documents also offer unique visual opportunities, with permission.
While general photography might be allowed, it's wise to check if there are specific restrictions for social media sharing, particularly concerning sensitive archival materials.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, for families looking for a unique and educational outing, the guided tours can offer engaging stories. The library's shop also has interesting badges and souvenirs that might appeal to younger visitors. Consider checking for any specific family-friendly events or exhibitions they might be hosting.
📚 History Buffs & Researchers
Researchers will appreciate the dedicated reading room and the opportunity to delve into primary sources. The guided tours offer an excellent introduction to the library's scope and highlight key areas of interest. Be prepared to spend significant time exploring the archives.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Manchester
Plan your visit around a Friday afternoon to take advantage of the guided tours, which offer the most comprehensive experience. Combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in Salford for a full day of discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Collections
Key holdings include rare books, pamphlets, newspapers, trade union records, personal papers, and artifacts. These materials are crucial for researchers, students, and anyone interested in understanding the roots of contemporary social justice issues. The library's commitment to preserving these often-overlooked histories ensures that the contributions of the working class are not forgotten.
Visitors can explore displays on significant events like the Peterloo Massacre of 1819, which serves as a stark reminder of the fight for democratic rights. The library also houses collections related to the Irish struggle for Independence and local Salford history, providing a diverse and rich historical narrative.
Experiencing the Library: Tours and Access
These tours, often held on Fridays at 2 PM, are highly recommended by visitors. They provide context and highlight key items within the collection, led by passionate staff or volunteers. The experience is described as relaxing, fun, and insightful, allowing visitors to 'touch some valuable collections' and gain a deeper understanding of the library's significance.
For those planning a visit, it's essential to check the library's schedule for tour availability and consider booking in advance, especially during peak times. The library also welcomes researchers and offers a reading room for those who wish to spend more time engaging with the materials.
The Library's Role and Community
Beyond its archival function, the library serves as a hub for discussions and events related to working-class history and contemporary social issues. It hosts activities and exhibitions that engage the public and foster a sense of shared heritage. The shop, offering meaningful badges and tote bags, is also a popular spot for visitors to support the library and take home a piece of its message.
Its location in Salford's Grade II listed Jubilee House adds to its charm, making it a unique destination for those seeking 'left field' or 'oddities' to explore, as suggested by one Reddit user looking for unique experiences.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit