Chair of the Portico Library

Susie Diggines appointed Chair as Portico enters defining new chapter

We are delighted to announce that Susie Diggines has been appointed as the new Chair of Trustees of the Portico Library.

Susie succeeds John Carpenter, who steps down after three years as Chair and five years as a Trustee. John will continue his involvement as Chair of the House Committee and as a Member. We are deeply grateful for his calm, thoughtful and steadfast leadership during a pivotal period in the Portico’s recent history.

Susie has been a Member of the Portico for many years and previously served as Secretary of the Library. More recently, she has supported the Portico Reunited project as part of the Lease Action Group. A solicitor with extensive governance and board experience, she brings clarity, commitment, and a strong belief in the Portico’s civic purpose. Her appointment comes at a defining moment. As we prepare our Delivery Phase submission to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Portico Reunited will reunite, restore and fully reopen the Grade II listed building, bringing it back into full use as a library for the first time in over a century.

Founded in 1806 in a very different social context, the Portico is now shaping its next chapter with a clear commitment to being open, representative and accessible to all. With International Women’s Day taking place this week, it feels particularly fitting to welcome a new Chair whose leadership reflects that ambition.

Susie Diggines said

“The Portico Library has reached a crucial point in its history. Founded in 1806 by the great and the good of Manchester, it was limited in outreach. It was a hidden gem. Today, we want to change that and make the Portico a recognised treasure and a living testament to the talent, drive, ambition and inclusive spirit of Mancunians and the North.” 

Dr Thom Keep, Librarian and CEO, said

“On behalf of everyone at the Portico, I am absolutely delighted to welcome Susie as our new Chair. She brings passion for the Library, its remarkable collection and the communities who use it, alongside clarity of leadership and a determination to secure a sustainable future through Portico Reunited. I also want to extend my profound thanks to John Carpenter. His integrity, diligence and wise counsel have been central to the progress we have made. Both Susie and John join a long line of Chairs who have stewarded this extraordinary institution for over two centuries. It is a privilege to build on that legacy as we shape the next chapter of the Portico’s story.”

John Carpenter said

“Susie Diggines was the unanimous choice following a rigorous selection process. I am immensely proud to have served as Trustee and Chair during such an important period in the Library’s history, and deeply grateful to the staff, volunteers and fellow Trustees whose dedication makes the Portico what it is.”