Could you help share the Portico Library’s unique history and collection? From supporting our welcome desk, to facilitating learning and live events, volunteering provides hands-on experience while contributing to Manchester’s living heritage.
Our volunteering programme is eligible to everyone who is above 18 years old.
Call Apapat(Pat) at the Portico Library 0161 236 6785 or email her at engagement@theportico.org.uk for more details.
Lynsey Alexander, Volunteer
“The Portico Library is a gem in the heart of Manchester city centre and it needs all of our input and support to develop its good work. It is a unique resource and deserves to be admired, appreciated, and utilised in all its glory. This, paired with the sheer beauty and depth of the Portico’s 19th-century special collection, is what makes me so passionately want to contribute to the future of the library.”
Kaya Peters, Volunteer
“It isn’t just these ‘out of the ordinary’ jobs that made my time here stand out: it’s the welcoming faces as you begin your shift; it’s the friendships created; it’s the sense of belonging and being a valued member of the team. Being involved in the daily running of the library is in itself, a job of a life time. Meeting the Portico’s eclectic members and interacting with visitors from all over the world, listening to their fascinating tales makes each day a joy.”
Ruth Estevez, Volunteer
“I have seen images in books beyond my imagination. I’m inspired to explore the books about female travellers and to write about what I find in their words and stories. I’ve laughed until my cheeks ache and been moved to tears. I’ve hung pictures and taken them down. I’ve popped bubble wrap. And made friends. Friends with the wonderful Portico team, library members and curious visitors.”
Collection Care
Learn to look after, clean and repair the Library’s 16th- to 19th-century books, archives and illustrations with former John Rylands Library Collection Care Team Leader Tim Higson, one of the UK's most experienced conservators.
Welcome Desk
Be the face of the Portico Library, greeting visitors and members at our welcome desk and helping with enquiries.
Events
Help run our eclectic public events and venue hires. Hear from fascinating experts during our talks and lectures and work with the artists at our concerts and live performances.
Research
Enable Manchester’s communities to uncover and investigate the incredible stories in the Library’s collection and contextualise its history through 21st-century eyes.
Photography & Filming
Document and share the Portico’s brilliant books, activities and people, plus the spectacular Grade II* Listed Building itself for everyone to enjoy.
Exhibitions
Learn specialist skills while gaining hands-on experience devising, planning and installing our free public exhibitions of new artworks, historic books, and unique objects from partner collections.
Workshops
Help fulfil the Library’s charitable aim to nurture a lifelong love of learning by facilitating arts, literacy and educational workshops as well as courses with local and international experts.