47 Years: Inglenook Branch Library Celebrates a Legacy of Service on July 17

Event Information

What: 47 Years of Putting Community First: Inglenook Library Birthday Celebration
When: Friday, July 17, 2026 | 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Inglenook Branch Library, 4100 40th Terrace North, Birmingham, AL 35217
Information: Call (205) 849-8739

From Fire Station to Neighborhood Library, Inglenook Branch Continues Transforming Lives Through Programs, Partnerships and Community Connections

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Forty-seven years ago, the former Inglenook Fire Station began a new chapter — not as a place responding to emergencies, but as a public library helping transform lives through education, literacy and community connection.

In July 1979, the building became the home of Inglenook Branch Library, creating a neighborhood resource where residents could discover new worlds through books and learning.

Today, 47 years later, the branch continues that mission while expanding its role as a true community gathering place where people of all ages can learn, create, connect and grow.

On Friday, July 17, Inglenook Branch Library will celebrate its 47th birthday with "47 Years of Putting Community First: Inglenook Birthday Celebration." The event will include pizza, , birthday cake, a movie and an opportunity for patrons to celebrate nearly five decades of service to the Inglenook community.

As Inglenook celebrates its history, Branch Manager Tonya Clarke said the library's greatest accomplishment is continuing to meet the changing needs of the community.

“We do our part to fulfill the Birmingham Public Library’s mission to transform lives by providing the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment,” Clarke said. “We offer our patrons far more than just books. We provide a safe haven for students out for summer break, free access to Wi-Fi and public computers, and quality activities for all ages.”

One example of how Inglenook has grown beyond traditional library services is Grow With Inglenook, a community-centered learning initiative that brings residents together through hands-on experiences focused on gardening, food access and healthy living. Grow With Inglenook encourages residents to explore ways to grow fresh food, practice sustainable gardening and discover how neighborhood-based efforts can contribute to healthier communities.

The next Grow With Garden program will take place at Inglenook Branch this Friday, July 10, from 3 – 4 p.m. Other sessions are scheduled for July 24 and August 7.

 The program represents the evolution of today's libraries into places where patrons can not only  check out books, but also gather to learn practical skills, share knowledge and strengthen connections with their neighbors.

“Grow With Inglenook reflects the library's commitment to serving as a hub for learning and community engagement,” Clarke said. “By bringing people together around gardening and food access, we’re helping residents develop skills that can benefit their families while strengthening neighborhood ties.”

As Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program, "Unearth a Story," enters its final weeks, Inglenook Branch Library is offering the following programs:

Grow With Inglenook
Friday, July 10, from 3 – 4 p.m. Other sessions are scheduled for July 24 and August 7.

This community-centered gardening and learning program provides hands-on experiences that promote gardening skills, food access and neighborhood connections.

Tech Tuesday and Thursday
Every Tuesday and Thursday in July | 10 a.m.-Noon

Patrons can receive one-on-one assistance to improve their technology skills, learn more about digital resources and become more comfortable using today’s technology. Registration is required by calling (205) 849-8739.

Crafty Thursday
Thursday, July 9 | 1-2 p.m.

Children can explore their creativity during this fun, hands-on craft program featuring weekly projects using materials such as paper, paint, glue and recyclables.

Unearth A Reel Story! Movie Time
Fridays in July | Noon

Families and community members can relax, enjoy popcorn and share a movie experience at the library during this weekly gathering.

Sloss Furnace: The Mining History of Birmingham
Tuesday, July 21| 1 p.m.

Discover the history behind Birmingham’s industrial growth during this special presentation exploring the mining of iron ore, limestone and coal — the resources that helped build the city. Participants will also learn about the workers and communities connected to Birmingham’s mining history.

Hand in Paw
Wednesday, July 22 | 10-11 a.m.

Hand in Paw brings professionally trained therapy animals and handlers to the library to help improve the lives of children, students and community members through animal-assisted therapy.

Celebrating the Past While Building the Future

For 47 years, Inglenook Branch Library has remained a place where neighbors come together to learn, celebrate and grow. While the building’s history began as a fire station, today’s Inglenook Branch represents the future of libraries: welcoming spaces where people can build skills, discover new interests, share experiences and strengthen their community.

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