BPL Beyond Books Spotlight for August 18-22: Picture Frames, Puzzle Games & Paint Parties
Explore What’s Happening at BPL – August 18–22, 2025
The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) continues to offer exciting programs that go way beyond books including hands-on crafts, STEM fun, gaming, job resources, and art exhibits.
With 18 library locations across the city, there's always something to learn, discover, or enjoy for patrons of all ages. BPL has programs and activities far beyond books as part of our mission to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment.
Here’s your guide to this week’s featured programs happening Monday through Friday, August 18–22, plus a bonus event on Saturday!
📅 Weekly Highlights
August 18–21
Frame Tha Day
🕘 Ongoing | Southside Branch Library
Kick off the school year by creating a school bus picture frame and a notebook-themed frame using popsicle sticks. A great way for families to make and capture first-day memories together!
August 18–22
Dog Days of Summer Scavenger Hunt
📍 During library hours through August 29|West End Branch Library
The dogs have gone missing! Help find them all in the Children’s Department and claim a prize at the circulation desk. A fun activity for curious young minds!
Tuesday, August 19
Games & Puzzles
🕒 3:00–5:00 p.m. | Inglenook Branch Library
Drop in to enjoy a mix of classic board games, video games like Mario Kart, and new challenges for kids and families alike!
Try It Out Night @ Central
🕠 5:30–7:30 p.m. | Central Library, East 2nd Floor
Join us for an evening of tabletop fun! Explore BPL’s growing board game collection with guidance from our staff. Come solo or bring a friend—either way, you’re sure to discover a new favorite game.
Wednesday, August 20
CD Paintings
🕚 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Powderly Branch Library
Seniors and adults are invited to turn old CDs into vibrant works of art in this laid-back, beginner-friendly craft workshop.
Exploring MedlinePlus (Virtual Program)
🕚 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Online via Zoom
Learn to navigate MedlinePlus, a trusted source for health and medical information in both English and Spanish. Presented by Megan Bell, Consumer Health Librarian at UAB.
Register to receive the Zoom link.
Play, Create, and Imagine Lab
🕒 3:00–4:00 p.m. | North Avondale Branch Library
Kids rotate through hands-on STEM stations with Legos, slime, and playdough—exploring, building, and imagining in fun ways that develop creativity and critical thinking.
Thursday, August 21
Online Job Hunting (Computer Class)
🕙 10:00–11:00 a.m. | Inglenook Branch Library
Adults can learn how to navigate job search platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter in this practical and empowering class.
Rock Painting for Beginners
🕥 10:30–11:30 a.m. | Titusville Branch Library
Get creative with paint and rock canvases! A beginner-friendly art activity open to patrons of all ages.
Optical Illusion Craft: Spindle Viewers
🕓 4:00–5:00 p.m. | East Ensley Branch Library
Create your own spinning illusion with this colorful craft that teaches basic principles of motion and vision.
Saturday, August 23
INK ONLY V – Contemporary Printmaking Exhibit
🕑 2:00–4:00 p.m. | Central Library, 4th Floor Gallery
Don’t miss the continuation of INK ONLY V, a juried print exhibit featuring work from artists across the country. Presented by PaperWorkers Local and supported by the Alabama State Council on the Arts.
Written by Roy L. Williams, Public Relations Director- Birmingham Public Library
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