Mechanics' institutes were formed to provide adult education, particularly in technical subjects, to working men. They were often funded by local industrialists who expected to benefit from having more knowledgeable and skilled employees. The mechanics' institutes were used as "libraries" for the adult working class, and provided an alternative pastime to gambling and drinking in pubs.
Manchester Mechanics' Institute, Cooper Street, opened in 1825
Reference:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanics%27_institutes (accessed 29Oct2020)