Birmingham Public Library Blog

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 ...

Unlock the Healing Power of Journaling at BPL’s Self-Care Mastermind on Dec. 2   What:  Self-Care Mastermind: Community Edition 2025 – Journaling for Life   When : Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 5:30–6:30 PM   Where: Grand Commons, 1st Floor, Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203   Details: Led by Christina (C.J.) Wade, licensed massage therapist and certified health coach   Birmingham, Ala.- Journaling is one of the simplest and most effective tools for boosting clarity, lowering stress, and supporting emotional/spiritual well-being. When practiced regularly, writing things down becomes a powerful long-term self-care habit, helping organize thoughts, sharpening focus, and encouraging meaningful reflection.    If you're interested in exploring how journaling can support your overall wellness, join the Birmingham Public Library downtown at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2 for the next session of our Self-Care Mastermind Community Edition...

  New North Star Learning Lab Launches at North Birmingham Regional Library Free Community Tech Hub Aims to Close Digital Skills Gaps and Inspire Innovation North Star Learning Lab Community Open House Details Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 Time: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM Location: North Birmingham Regional Library, 2501 31 st Ave. North Admission: Free and open to all BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Birmingham Public Library (BPL) invites the community to experience the city’s newest center for digital learning and innovation: the North Star Learning Lab inside the North Birmingham Regional Library, 2501 31 st Ave. North.   A public Open House will be held Wednesday, November 19, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., offering residents a first look at this transformative new space built to support digital access, workforce readiness, and creative exploration. Designed as a free, open-access technology lab available during all library hours, the North Star Learning Lab represents a ma...