Do I need to bring a labor manual to apply for Shanghai social security card?

These two things are handled in the street/town community affairs acceptance service center. To apply for a social security card, you only need to bring your ID card, household registration book and money, because you have to take photos yourself, and you can get the card in about a month.

Bring your ID card, household registration book, education certificate, 2-inch photo and 2 labor manuals (now called employment and unemployment registration certificate) and settle the account for free on the spot. Those who are currently working in the unit can be handed over to the unit, and some units fill in the date of entry and exit and stamp to prove their work experience. Get the manual back when you leave. If there is no work unit, they have their own custody.

Further reading: How to buy insurance, which is good, and teach you how to avoid these "pits" of insurance.