Anniversary of first public library

The author's words were unveiled on Thursday to mark the day in 1852 when a member of the public in Manchester became the first person in the country to borrow a book.

The library in Campfield, in the centre of Manchester, then became the first to be supported by public rates.

Its first chief librarian Edward Edwards - the "father" of the public library movement - was joined by Dickens and fellow author William Thackeray for the opening.

Although the number of visitors to public libraries in the UK has declined by 20% over the last 10 years, Manchester City Council claims it has only dipped by 3% in the city.

"People now use their libraries for much more than book borrowing or for reference," said Lis Phelan, director of libraries and theatres.

"Libraries have become the village halls for local communities and in Manchester those community hubs are thriving."

Events programme

She said library users are now more likely to take advantage of the free internet access and borrow DVDs.

"With 96% of Manchester residents living within one mile of a library, they have a key role in the social and cultural life of their communities," Ms Phelan added.

The "Between the Lines" exhibition featuring Dickens' words opens to the public on Friday in the city's central library, and is one of a series of events to mark the anniversary.