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John Rylands Research Institute and Library

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About

The John Rylands Research Institute and Library promotes research in the humanities and sciences using the astonishingly rich special collections of the University of Manchester Library.

Based in one of the finest neo-Gothic buildings in Europe and in the heart of Manchester, it is a dynamic community of world-leading researchers, curators, conservators and imaging specialists, all focused on our core mission to define the human experience over five millennia and up to the current day. 

Historic photograph of The John Rylands Library exterior

Our history

The John Rylands Library was founded by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband John Rylands, who died in 1888.

Illustrated: miniature: Enthronement of Minuchihr.

Our purpose

We promote research in the humanities and sciences using the rich and diverse special collections of the University of Manchester Library.

Conservation team restoring papyrus

Our people

The John Rylands Research Institute and Library is a dynamic community of library specialists and world-leading researchers.

Institute staff

Find out more about the staff who lead the Rylands including our researchers and PhD students.

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Library staff

Find out more about the Library’s leaders, managers, curators and other experts.

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Ahmed Iqbal Ullah RACE Centre

Ahmed Iqbal Ullah RACE Centre: A unique library and archive specialising in the study of race, ethnicity and migration.

Read more

National Research Libraries

The University of Manchester Library one of five National Research Libraries

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