Birmingham Public Library Kicks Off 2026 Summer Reading with Free Family Event at Avondale Park

 

Event Details:

What: 2026 Summer Reading Kickoff
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: Avondale Park, 4105 5^th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL

Birmingham Public Library Kicks Off 2026 Summer Reading with Free Family Event at Avondale Park

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) invites families from across the city to participate in its 2026 Summer Reading Kickoff on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Avondale Park, adjacent to Avondale Regional Branch Library.

The 2026 theme is “Unearth a Story.” Sponsored by the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library and The Caring Foundation, the Summer Reading Kickoff will feature family-friendly interactive activities designed to spark excitement about reading for patrons of all ages, from toddlers and children to teens, adults, and seniors.

Attendees can enjoy crafts, face painting, a book walk, games, inflatables, and live attractions including a petting zoo experience, balloon art, and a dinosaur-themed selfie station. Free treats like snow cones and food options will be available, along with giveaways and prizes throughout the event.

Attendees will be able to register for Summer Reading onsite during the Kickoff event. Families can also sign up for Summer Reading programs at Birmingham Public Library locations citywide starting May 9.

The Summer Reading Program is a part of BPL’s mission to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment. By keeping young minds engaged during the school break, the program helps reduce “summer slide” learning loss while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and confidence.

For more information, visit www.cobpl.org.

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