John Rylands Library on top tourism list

26 Apr 2013

The University’s iconic library included on a list of Great British landmarks, published by Visit England.

A panel of experts, assembled by tourism chiefs have spent weeks trawling through over 800 submissions to select the top 101 things to do before you go abroad,in time for English Tourism Week.

The famous building’s achievement, renowned for its Gothic architecture and inspirational collections, was revealed on St George’s Day alongside 100 other UK attractions.

Built in the 1890s, The John Rylands Library is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world; both the building and its collections are of outstanding international significance.

It is also a working academic library, where researchers can consult the collections in the beautiful Historic Reading Room.

The Special Collections of the Deansgate based Library contain some of the most significant printed books and manuscripts in existence.

There is also a wealth of archive collections and visual resources documenting cultural, literary, historical and religious traditions from around the world.

University Librarian and Director of The John Rylands Library, Jan Wilkinson, said: “ It is particularly special for us that The John Rylands Library has been named, by the public, as ‘one of the 101 things to do before you go abroad’. Library staff work exceptionally hard to care for the Library’s fantastic collections, and to bring them, and their stunning home, to life through our exhibitions and events.

“We take immense pride in ensuring that the splendour and beauty of the Library is still enjoyed by visitors from across the world today, and are absolutely delighted to see these efforts acknowledged in this way.”

For more information visit 101 Things to do in England