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Working Class Movement Library

4.5
·27 reviews·, United Kingdom

A vital archive preserving over 200 years of working-class history, offering unique insights into social movements and activism.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Guided tours offer deeper access

CrowdMedium
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WCML exterior

Working Class Movement Library

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Guided tours offer deeper access

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vital archive preserving over 200 years of working-class history, offering unique insights into social movements and activism.

4.5
(27 reviews)

"A fantastic and valuable archive with friendly, welcoming staff, well worth a visit for anyone interested in socialist politics."

Vertical photo
TIP

🔔 Ring the Bell to Enter

Don't forget to ring the bell to gain entry; it's a unique part of the experience!

📅 Book Guided Tours

For access to upstairs collections, book a guided tour, usually on Fridays at 2 PM.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Peterloo Massacre Artefacts

Peterloo Massacre Artefacts

Ground floor displays

See rare artifacts from the 1819 Peterloo Massacre, a pivotal moment in British working-class history.

Chartist and Suffragette Collections

Chartist and Suffragette Collections

Archival displays

Explore documents and memorabilia from the Chartist and Suffragette movements, showcasing historical struggles for rights.

Thomas Ellison's Scrapbook

Thomas Ellison's Scrapbook

Special collections (tour access)

Discover the poignant writings and art of a WWI conscientious objector, offering a personal glimpse into wartime experiences.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Archives

The Working Class Movement Library (WCML) houses extensive collections. While the ground floor is generally accessible, the upper floors, containing rarer materials, are primarily accessible via guided tours, typically held on Fridays at 2 PM. Booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment.

A Unique Perspective

This library offers a deep dive into working-class history and socialist politics. Visitors should be aware of its specific focus, which some reviews note as being 'left-wing.' It's an ideal destination for those interested in social history and activism.

Best Times

When
Friday afternoons
Why
Guided tours offer deeper access
Crowd
Medium
When
Open days
Why
Special events and exhibitions
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Archives, libraries, museums. Various spaces find, preserve and make specific voices listened to throughout history. Some more radically and inclusively than others. Here, library manager Belinda Scarlett @wcmlibrary discusses how the Working Class Movement Library was founded to ensure that working-class voices are heard at their source, which also involves the challenge of amplifying all differ...
thesocreviewpodcasts
2 likes • 341 views

🔔 Ring the Bell to Enter

Don't forget to ring the bell to gain entry; it's a unique part of the experience! Reddit

📅 Book Guided Tours

For access to upstairs collections, book a guided tour, usually on Fridays at 2 PM. Reddit

Welcome to the Working Class Movement Library ✊🏿✊🏾✊🏼 Thank you @wcmlibrary for hosting us this evening in Salford, and thanks to the Salford Trade Union Council for helping make this possible
manifestopresscoop
3 likes • 140 views
Come with us to @wcmlibrary ! Just outside Manchester city centre, the Working Class Movement Library is home to huge collections of books and archival materials, some dating back as far as the 1760s. Some materials held in this beautiful Victorian building include artefacts from the Peterloo Massacre of 1819, Chartist and Suffragette movements, and the Spanish Civil War. As well as these materia...
englishsalford
81 likes • 4.6K views

💖 Support the Charity

As a charity, donations and word-of-mouth are vital. Consider visiting their shop for meaningful souvenirs. Reddit

📚 Research & Reading Room

A quiet reading room is available for those wishing to delve into the collections. Reddit

All salute to the Working Class Movement Library (@wcmlibrary) ✊🏼. I recently had the chance to read and respond to an amazing collection from their archive - Thomas Ellison's Scrapbook. Thomas was a Conscientious Objector in WWI and he collated writing, rambling, letters, articles and art whilst in prison on and off for over 2 years. It's no exaggeration to say his book left me reeling and turned...
scottcassidywrites
53 likes • 987 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🔔 Ring the Bell to Enter

Don't forget to ring the bell to gain entry; it's a unique part of the experience! Reddit

📅 Book Guided Tours

For access to upstairs collections, book a guided tour, usually on Fridays at 2 PM. Reddit

💖 Support the Charity

As a charity, donations and word-of-mouth are vital. Consider visiting their shop for meaningful souvenirs. Reddit

📚 Research & Reading Room

A quiet reading room is available for those wishing to delve into the collections. Reddit

🗣️ Friendly & Welcoming Staff

Expect very friendly and knowledgeable staff and volunteers eager to share insights. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(27 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Working Class Movement Library for its fascinating and extensive collections, friendly staff, and unique focus on working-class history. The guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the archives. Some note its distinctly 'left-wing' perspective, which is to be expected given its subject matter.

"Our guide, Julie, was showing us this Julibee House inside out, from rooms, books, to boxes. She kept the journey relaxing and fun! We were able to learn some insights from the workers there and touch some valuable collections.

It's free for everyone, but upstairs only open with the guided tour, and it was 2pm on a Friday.

Highly recommend anyone drop by their shop, most people from our group found those badges are quite interesting and meaningful, as same as the torte bag.

Don't forget to ring the bell to get in!"

NANA DESIGN

"The library, which spans more than 200 years of working-class history, is located in Salford's Grade II listed Jubilee House. It provides tours, activities, and exhibitions and is accessible to the general public for research purposes."

Munir Jibrin

"Interesting little place with very friendly staff.

The upper floors are only available on a Friday tour and I would only recommend going if you have one.

It's very left wing, however that's to be expected and I didn't mind the bias, even tho I'm quite centrist.

You can ask for a book to read and there is a nice reading room to relax in.

Finally, there is a lot of information boards on the ground floor going into the history of the independent labour party.

(Thanks again for showing me around even though the tour wasn't running.)

Would only recommend for people into left wing political history."

M

What People Like

Fascinating historical collections
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Unique focus on working-class history

What People Dislike

Strong political bias (expected)
Limited access to upper floors without tours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The library is located in Salford, just outside Manchester city centre. It's accessible by public transport, with local bus routes serving the area. If driving, check for nearby parking options. TikTok

Yes, general admission to the library is free for everyone. However, access to certain collections or special exhibitions might involve a fee or require booking a tour. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but the ground floor is generally accessible. Guided tours, which provide access to upstairs collections, are typically held on Fridays at 2 PM. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Absolutely! The library is a valuable resource for research into working-class history, socialist politics, and social movements. They have a reading room available for visitors. Reddit

Yes, it's an excellent option for a day trip from Manchester. Its location in Salford makes it easily accessible, and it offers a unique historical perspective that differs from typical city centre attractions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General entry to the Working Class Movement Library is free. However, if you wish to join a guided tour to see the upstairs collections, it's advisable to book in advance, especially as these are often limited. Reddit

Guided tours are typically offered on Fridays at 2 PM. These tours are highly recommended for a comprehensive experience of the library's collections. Reddit

You can walk in and explore the ground floor displays freely. For access to the more extensive upstairs collections, a guided tour is usually required. Reddit

The library occasionally hosts special events, exhibitions, and activities. It's worth checking their website or social media channels for announcements about upcoming events. Instagram

The library welcomes group visits and can often arrange tours or talks for groups. It's best to contact them directly to discuss your group's needs and to book a visit. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The library holds vast collections of books, pamphlets, archives, and artifacts spanning over 200 years of working-class history, including materials from the Chartist and Suffragette movements, and the Peterloo Massacre. TikTokReddit

The ground floor of the library is generally accessible. However, access to the upper floors, where many of the archives are housed, may be limited for those with mobility issues, as it's an older building. It's advisable to contact them directly to inquire about specific accessibility needs. Reddit

Visitors describe the atmosphere as friendly, welcoming, and fascinating. It's a place where you can learn and reflect on significant historical movements. Reddit

While photography policies can vary, it's generally a good idea to ask permission before taking extensive photos, especially of archival materials. The building itself and some displays may be suitable for photos. TikTok

Guided tours offer an in-depth look at the library's collections, led by knowledgeable staff or volunteers. You'll learn about key historical movements and see unique artifacts. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The library is located in Salford, which has various cafes and eateries nearby. For more extensive dining options, you can easily travel back towards Manchester city centre. TikTok

Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the library's main collection areas to protect the historical materials. There might be designated areas or nearby cafes. Instagram

The Working Class Movement Library does not typically have its own cafe or restaurant. Visitors are usually advised to use nearby establishments for refreshments. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's always best to ask staff for permission before taking pictures, especially of archival items. Some general areas or displays might be fine for photos. TikTok

The Victorian architecture of Jubilee House, the building housing the library, can be photogenic. Displays of historical artifacts and documents also offer unique visual opportunities, with permission. TikTok

While general photography might be allowed, it's wise to check if there are specific restrictions for social media sharing, particularly concerning sensitive archival materials. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Working Class Movement Library is rich in historical content, it might be more suited for older children or teenagers interested in history and social studies. The focus on political movements and archival materials may not hold the attention of very young children. Reddit

However, for families looking for a unique and educational outing, the guided tours can offer engaging stories. The library's shop also has interesting badges and souvenirs that might appeal to younger visitors. Consider checking for any specific family-friendly events or exhibitions they might be hosting. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Researchers

This library is a dream destination for anyone passionate about working-class history, socialist politics, and activism. The extensive collections, including rare documents and artifacts, provide unparalleled research opportunities. Reddit

Researchers will appreciate the dedicated reading room and the opportunity to delve into primary sources. The guided tours offer an excellent introduction to the library's scope and highlight key areas of interest. Be prepared to spend significant time exploring the archives. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers from Manchester

The Working Class Movement Library is an ideal addition to a day trip from Manchester. Its proximity and unique historical focus offer a refreshing contrast to the city's more mainstream attractions. TikTok

Plan your visit around a Friday afternoon to take advantage of the guided tours, which offer the most comprehensive experience. Combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in Salford for a full day of discovery. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the Collections

The Working Class Movement Library (WCML) is a treasure trove of materials documenting the history of working-class people and movements in Britain. Its collections span over two centuries, offering invaluable insights into social, political, and economic struggles. From the radicalism of the Chartist movement to the fight for women's suffrage, the library preserves the voices and experiences of ordinary people who shaped history. TikTok+1

Key holdings include rare books, pamphlets, newspapers, trade union records, personal papers, and artifacts. These materials are crucial for researchers, students, and anyone interested in understanding the roots of contemporary social justice issues. The library's commitment to preserving these often-overlooked histories ensures that the contributions of the working class are not forgotten. Reddit

Visitors can explore displays on significant events like the Peterloo Massacre of 1819, which serves as a stark reminder of the fight for democratic rights. The library also houses collections related to the Irish struggle for Independence and local Salford history, providing a diverse and rich historical narrative. TikTok

Experiencing the Library: Tours and Access

Accessing the full breadth of the Working Class Movement Library's collections often involves a guided tour. While the ground floor is generally open for browsing, the more sensitive and extensive archival materials are housed upstairs and are typically only accessible via these tours. Reddit

These tours, often held on Fridays at 2 PM, are highly recommended by visitors. They provide context and highlight key items within the collection, led by passionate staff or volunteers. The experience is described as relaxing, fun, and insightful, allowing visitors to 'touch some valuable collections' and gain a deeper understanding of the library's significance. Reddit

For those planning a visit, it's essential to check the library's schedule for tour availability and consider booking in advance, especially during peak times. The library also welcomes researchers and offers a reading room for those who wish to spend more time engaging with the materials. Reddit

The Library's Role and Community

The Working Class Movement Library operates as a charity, relying heavily on donations and word-of-mouth to sustain its vital work. This community-driven approach is reflected in the friendly and welcoming atmosphere described by visitors. Reddit

Beyond its archival function, the library serves as a hub for discussions and events related to working-class history and contemporary social issues. It hosts activities and exhibitions that engage the public and foster a sense of shared heritage. The shop, offering meaningful badges and tote bags, is also a popular spot for visitors to support the library and take home a piece of its message. TikTokReddit

Its location in Salford's Grade II listed Jubilee House adds to its charm, making it a unique destination for those seeking 'left field' or 'oddities' to explore, as suggested by one Reddit user looking for unique experiences. Reddit

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