The £20,250 grant awarded by the Library On programme, funded by Arts Council England, will enable the development of virtual tours for all the Manchester library venues for the very first time. This exciting initiative will provide an immersive experience for viewers, allowing them to explore the diverse sections, historical nuances, and architectural beauty of our libraries, all from the comfort of their screens, before planning their visits.The Library On programme not only celebrates the significance of libraries but also strives to enhance digital accessibility to information and services. By doing so, it aims to encourage more people to visit public libraries, making it easier for them to discover and utilize the valuable resources and services offered.
This project is rooted in the objective of improving the discoverability and accessibility of Manchester Libraries’ 22 sites, both physically and online. It acknowledges national research and feedback received, indicating that certain neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism, may feel hesitant to visit unfamiliar locations unless they have a clear understanding of what to expect.
The creation of the virtual tours will commence shortly, and they will be available to view on various web pages and social media platforms of Manchester Libraries in the spring of next year.
