Transforming a much-loved Manchester landmark

Widely regarded as one of Europe’s finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture, the neo-Gothic building houses internationally significant collections of rare books, manuscripts, and archives.
Led by Donald Insall Associates in collaboration with exhibition designers Nissen Richards Studio, the ‘John Rylands Next Chapter’ project consists of a series of subtle yet strategic interventions. Across the project, we have employed a cohesive architectural language that reflects the building’s evolution from its original construction through subsequent modifications in the 1920s, 1960s, and early 2000s.

Bridging architectural styles

The former anonymous glass revolving door has been replaced. A new solid bronze entrance portal, sculpted to be reminiscent of book pages and etched to evoke the adjacent stone arches, creates a striking arrival experience that reflects the significance of the building.
Internally, the transformation has created a more consistent and engaging experience for visitors by seamlessly connecting existing spaces from the building’s evolution and unveiling previously hidden architectural and archival treasures.

The 1890s building is characterised by red sandstone, dark bronze ironmongery, and European oak, while the 2007 extension is a glass and steel structure typical of its time. To bridge the architectural styles, new interventions use a careful selection of materials to create a sense of continuity with the past and the present, blending the spaces for visitors to explore and navigate with ease.

User-centric enhancements

Formerly underused spaces have been repurposed, including the former café. The space has been transformed into a flexible events venue, providing an adaptable setting for community use, equipped to host lectures, conferences, and public programming. Whilst a former storage area has been converted into an advanced imaging suite, a fully conditioned space for photographing delicate special collections.

Following these works, the new Collections Gallery will feature star objects that trace the history and evolution of the Library’s special collections, and a second exhibit will open in the Special Exhibition Gallery.

The refreshed building is part of The University of Manchester Library’s Imagine2030 vision, ensuring that the Rylands continues to be a leading centre for research and public engagement.