Central Library to host Harry Potter inspired exhibition

Wands at the ready there is a secial exhibition coming to Central Library that will unlock the secrets of magic and wizadry, inspired by Harry Potter himself.

Inspired by the British Library’s new exhibition Harry Potter: A History of Magic, Liverpool is one of 20 libraries across the UK to host a series of displays dedicated to the enchanting topic.

It will include specially designed panels influenced by the Potter exhibition, showing images of rare books, manuscripts and magical objects featured in the British Library’s exhibition, as well as images of material from J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury’s own collections.

Liverpool’s own collections relating to magic, astronomy, herbology, and folklore will also be showcased and will be on display until Sunday 4 February 2018.

The display has been developed by the British Library in collaboration with the team at Central Library through the Living Knowledge Network – an innovative partnership between the British Library and 22 major public libraries across the UK, and the National Library of Scotland and the National Library of Wales.

To launch Liverpool’s display, from 6pm on Friday (20 October) people can attend an exclusive preview and take part in a free quiz ideal for Potter fans. Tickets are free, however registration is essential. Register here.

There will also be a fun-filled day of events, crafts, performances and activities on Saturday (21 October) at Liverpool Central Library to mark the launch of the exhibition. This will include wand-making, spell-casting and the chance to meet some real owls and the Liverpool Quidditch team.

Harry Potter: A History of Magic celebrates the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, combining centuries-old British Library treasures with original material from Bloomsbury’s and J.K. Rowling’s own archives. Based on the subjects studied at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, this exhibition will showcase material from J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury’s own collections, going on display for the very first time.

Assistant Mayor and Cabinet Member responsible for libraries, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: “This will be a fascinating Harry Potter inspired exhibition, which will be a must-see for all Potter fans.

“It’s great to be able to kick off its opening on Friday with a special quiz and sneak pre-view so visitors can show they know their Slytherin from their Gryffindor.  We also look forward to welcoming lots of families on Saturday as they immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter in the magical surroundings of Central Library!”

Roly Keating, Chief Executive of the British Library said of the project: “We are delighted to be working with 20 different public libraries across the UK to share our exhibition, Harry Potter: A History of Magic. The Living Knowledge Network is all about sharing resources, skills and ideas to make our intellectual heritage available to everyone and here we’ve championed what lies at the heart of the Harry Potter stories that resonates deeply with people across the country to achieve this. The roll-out truly encapsulates the convening power of bringing local and national treasures together through the partners.”