How the Birmingham Public Library Transforms the Community Through the Arts

More Than Shelves and Stories: The Arts Come Alive at BPL

When most people think of libraries, they picture quiet reading rooms and shelves of books. But today’s libraries are so much more. Across the country, public libraries are reimagining themselves as vibrant cultural hubs. The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is helping lead the way.

From live music and poetry slams to art exhibits, dance classes, and signature events, BPL has become a stage, gallery, and classroom rolled into one. These programs not only showcase local talent but also create welcoming spaces where neighbors connect and celebrate Birmingham’s rich cultural fabric.

Here are just a few ways BPL is opening its doors to creativity:

• Bards & Brews – For over 15 years, BPL’s monthly spoken word poetry and craft beer event has brought together poets, performers, and fans. In September, the Central Library hosted a lively Poetry Slam, with metro-area poets competing for $350 in prizes. Bards & Brews is on break in December, but will return with an Open Mic in January 2026. It's free to the public.  
• Classic Cocktails – In its 4th year, Classic Cocktails (sponsored by the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library) is the ultimate kickoff to Magic City Classic week. Held October 21 at the Birmingham Public Library downtown, guests enjoyed DJ French Kiss, tailgate-style food, two signature cocktails, and a premium cigar experience on the Lion’s Den Cigar Bus. More than a party, Classic Cocktails supports BPL’s mission to provide lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and enjoyment.  
• Loud at the Library Concerts – From jazz to blues, BPL fills the air with music all year long. Earlier this year, the series showcased a jazz ensemble, a punk rock show, and a bluegrass band, proof that BPL has something for every music lover. The latest was a Books, Blues & BBQ on  September 13 featuring Alabama Blues Hall of Fame artist “Hurricane” Elaine Hudson.
• Art for Everyone – Sponsored by the Alabama State Council on the Arts, this series brings free exhibits to the Central Library. The latest art exhibitions are Sara Dismukes: (dis)locate,  celebrating thing we pass by, often unnoticed, while moving about our day (4th Floor Gallery) and Chalk Dreams: Outside the Lines, featuring artist Toni Toney (1st floor Gallery).
•  Line Dancing for All Ages – Whether it’s “Boots on the Ground” or “Cupid’s Flex,” free line dance classes at Titusville Branch, North Birmingham Regional, and Five Points West Regional libraries keep the community moving.
• Craft & Create – From crochet at West End to “Crafts, Conversations, and Community” at Springville Road, BPL helps adults of all skill levels tap into creativity. Click on the BPL calendar to find a craft program at a BPL location near you. 
• Celebrating Diversity – Every February, BPL honors voices and stories that shape our community with dozens of Black History Month programs across its 18 locations.

🎥 Spotlight on Music and Media
BPL  isn’t just a place to watch performances, we've become a creative backdrop for artists. Birmingham hip-hop duo Shaheed & DJ Supreme released their latest single and music video, Knowledge of Shelf, on August 4. Eight days later, they filmed the upbeat anthem inside the Central Library, spotlighting the role libraries play in building community.

In the video, Shaheed delivers verses on the power of books while DJ Supreme supplies beats. NBC 13 evening anchor Brittany Decker even joins in for a surprise dance cameo. As Shaheed raps: “I loved the library since I was a little shorty. By books I’m entertained, it stimulates the brain. By reading books, it’s so much knowledge that my mind will gain.”

BPL's Create 205 Learning Lab, on the 2nd floor of the Central Library Youth Department, also offers the opportunity for students interested in music to learn how to produce records.  

The Birmingham Public Library is no longer just a place to borrow books. It’s a place to share stories, celebrate culture, and experience art in its many forms.

👉 Want to see what’s next in BPL’s arts and cultural programming? Explore the full calendar of events at www.cobpl.org/calendar.

Written by Roy L. Williams, Public Relations Specialist - Birmingham Public Library