Tapestry Themes #11: Education, Universities & Self Improvement
Theme Eleven: Education, Universities & Self Improvement
The the researchers chose to tackle the theme of Education, Universities & Self-Improvement next, which was panel eleven. Their research included Manchester Mechanics Institute established in 1824, as well as important figures within the realm of education such as John Dalton, and libraries and museums such as John Rylands Library and Manchester Central Library.
The team noted one particularly important institution- Manchester Mechanics Institute, founded in 1824. Notable members and founders include: Sir Benjamin Heywood, a banker and philanthropist who became the first president of the institution; John Dalton, who became 'father of Atomic Theory'; Robert Hyde Greg, son of Samuel Greg, creator of Quarry Bank Mill and William Henry, a chemist who developed 'Henry's Law', Peter Ewart, a Scottish engineer who was influential in developing the technologies of turbines.
Manchester Mechanics Institute also led to the formation of the Trades Union Congress in 1868, as well as the Co-operative Insurance Society and UMIST (University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology).
John Rylands Library is another institute we are fortunate to have here in Manchester today. The researchers found some brilliant information about the history of John Rylands Library, particularly about how the founding of the library was actually by his wife, Enriqueta Rylands:
'The library is one of the museum, library and archive collections of national and international importance under the Designation Scheme for England.
The library’s architectural style is mainly neo-Gothic with elements of Arts and Crafts in the gatehouse facing Deansgate. The library was granted Grade 1 listed status in 1994 and is maintained by the University of Manchester and is open for visitors.
Enriqueta Rylands purchased a site on Deansgate for her memorial library in 1889 and commissioned a design from architect Basil Champneys. Mrs Rylands commissioned the Manchester academic Alice Cooke to index the vast library of the 2nd Earl Spencer which she had purchased.
The John Rylands Library and the Manchester University Library merged in July 1972 and was named the John Rylands University Library of Manchester. Special collections built up by both libraries were progressively concentrated in the Deansgate building.' (Wikepedia)
Manchester Central Library, situated in the city's St Peter's Square, was originally opened in 1934. It is a Grade II-listed building, which (from the moment you approach it) appears reminiscent of the Roman Pantheon. The story of the Central Library is one of evolution—from its origins in the mid-19th century, through moments of celebration and change, to its present-day status as the UK’s most visited public library. It's clear that the building is more than a library to Manchester, it's a landmark.
After the passing of the Public Libraries Act in 1850, this Northern city wasted no time establishing the Manchester Free Public Library at Campfield in 1852. By the 1920s, it was clear Manchester needed a larger (and more impressive) space to house its ever-growing collection.
In July 1934, King George V officially opened the library to much fanfare.
Beyond book storage the library has been many things over the years. During World War II, it became a place of solace and information for the community. In the 1960s, the library expanded its offerings by introducing the Chinese Library Service, catering to the city's growing Chinese community. (City Days)
