Chetham’s Library was founded in 1653, and is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world. It is housed in one of Manchester's oldest buildings, the former College of Manchester which dates from the 1420s. The Library has been used by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, John Wesley, Daniel Defoe, Benjamin Franklin and John Dalton. The Library began acquiring books in August 1655, and has been adding to its collections ever since. In the seventeenth century Chetham’s acquired large numbers of scientific books, and has early editions of some of the most important scientific books ever published. Delegates will be given a tour of the medieval building before a handling session where some of the library treasures will be on view.

There is no charge for this tour. Numbers will be limited to 20 people, so please register in advance. You can do this at any time before the Congress by emailing tours@ichstm2013.com with your details; or you can sign up in person at the Congress Events Desk. Please arrange your own travel to Chetham’s.

For more information, see the website: www.chethams.org.uk/