Beyond Books September 8-13 at BPL: Pumpkins, Wellness & BBQ

What’s Happening at BPL – September 8–13, 2025

The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) continues to prove that we’re more than just books. With 18 locations across the city, BPL offers programs that inspire creativity, encourage lifelong learning, and bring people together.

Each week, patrons of all ages can find opportunities to learn, connect, and discover something new. From crafts and cultural experiences to wellness workshops and music, there’s something for everyone at your library.

This week’s Beyond Books spotlight features pumpkin painting at East Ensley Branch; health and stress reduction programs at Smithfield Branch and North Birmingham Regional Library; a memorial altar craft workshop at East Lake Branch. Plus a special treat for barbecue lovers:  Central Library events for barbecue lovers: a Books, Blues & BBQ concert on Friday and a talk about the history of Alabama barbecue on Saturday.

Here’s your guide to featured programs happening Monday through Saturday, September 8–13, 2025.

📅 Weekly Highlights

Fall Craft: Pumpkin Painting
📍 East Ensley Branch Library
📅 Tuesday, September 9 | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Welcome autumn with a fun, fall-themed craft! Paint your own pumpkin door hanger and take home a festive keepsake.

Hands-On Japanese Culture Experience with Eri T.
📍 Smithfield Branch Library
📅 Tuesday, September 9 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Discover Japanese culture through crafts, activities, and an introduction to the language.

A.R.M.S. (Active & Ready for a More Successful You)
📍 Smithfield Branch Library
📅 Wednesday, September 10 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Join a series of hands-on, health-promoting activities designed to support better living. Offered every 2nd Wednesday.

Community Stress Support
📍 North Birmingham Regional Branch Library
📅 Wednesday, September 10 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Connect with others and explore practical ways to reduce daily stress in a supportive setting.

Health & Wellness Expo
📍 Smithfield Branch Library
📅 Wednesday, September 10 | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Explore resources and screenings with Live HealthSmart Alabama and other community health partners.

Memorial Altar Box Craft Workshop
📍 East Lake Branch Library
📅 Thursday, September 11 | 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Create a small memorial altar (ofrenda) box to honor a lost loved one, hero, or pet. Led by Bare Hands artists, this free hands-on workshop provides supplies. Bring a photo and small mementos for personalization. Click here to register. (Registration is preferred but not required)

Books, Blues & BBQ
📍 Central Library, 2100 Park Place
📅 Friday, September 12 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
🎶 Featuring Alabama Blues Hall of Fame artist Elaine “Hurricane” Hudson
Admission: Free & open to the public
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of live blues and free barbecue sandwiches.

Hog Heaven: A Brief History of Alabama Barbecue
📍 Central Library Create205 Lab
📅 Saturday, September 13 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Dr. Mark A. Johnson, historian and author of An Irresistible History of Alabama Barbecue, explores how barbecue has shaped Alabama’s culture from campaign rallies to the civil rights movement to today’s foodie revival.

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