Adopt a book

Many of the books in the Portico Library's 19th-century collection are in urgent need of repair or rebinding. It is vital that these items are preserved for future generations to learn from and enjoy. You can help us preserve the Library’s historic collection by donating to our adopt-a-book fund, or choosing an individual book to adopt. Below are some of our books that are in need of adoption.

Individual books in need of adoption

Anyone can help restore the Portico Library's unique collection of rare and important books, illustrations, and archives. Over 50% of the Library’s holdings require some form of repair so you can also search the online catalogue. You can get in touch to arrange a viewing of a book, choose which items you want to save, and make your donation. In return for adopting a single book (prices typically start at £120 per book), you'll receive a commemorative plate in the front of the newly repaired volume to memorialise your contribution, either in your name, or on behalf of a loved one.

For an additional £20, there is the option to have an exclusive print made from a page of your choice, from the book you are adopting.

We also have a number of books that we have already identified as needing some repair. Please see the books listed below and if any of them interest you, please get in touch for a quote.

To speak to us about adopting a book please call 0161 236 6785, or email us below

History of the Cotton Manufacture in Great Britain, 1835

by Edward Baine

This is a first edition of this book. Baines was the Liberal MP for Leeds from 1859-1874 and helped found the Leeds Literary and Philosophical Society.

Baines was an eyewitness to the Peterloo massacre which took place just down the road from the Portico. He wrote an article about the events for The Leeds Mercury. Cotton manufacturing is closely linked to Manchester’s history, and this book would have been of interest to a great many of our members, who had business interests in the cotton industry.