Birmingham Public Library Invites Community to ‘Find Your Joy’ During National Library Week

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BPL is celebrating 2026 National Library Week April 19-25. 

Free programs, wellness resources, cultural events highlight BPL’s impact in Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is joining libraries nationwide in celebrating National Library Week (April 19–25) by showcasing a wide range of programs and services that extend far beyond books.

BPL offers more than books: Our 17 locations provide a place to learn, create, and connect. Programs and services include story times for little ones, hands-on technology workshops, lively author events, book clubs, movies, music, games for all ages, and so much more. The mission of BPL is to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment.

As part of the celebration, BPL Executive Director Janine Langston will join staff and city leaders at the Tuesday, April 21 Birmingham City Council meeting, where Mayor Randall Woodfin will present an official proclamation recognizing National Library Week. Established in 1958 by the American Library Association, the annual observance highlights the vital role libraries play in communities nationwide.

This year’s theme, “Find Your Joy,” is led by honorary chair Mychal Threets, a California librarian and literacy advocate known for promoting the joy of libraries and mental wellness.

Here are four ways to celebrate libraries this week:

  • Right to Read Day (Monday, April 20, 2026): A day of action focused on defending the freedom to read and highlighting the release of the State of America's Libraries Report.
  • National Library Workers Day (Tuesday, April 21, 2026): A day to honor the contributions of library professionals in serving their communities.
  • National Library Outreach Day (Wednesday, April 22, 2026): Celebrates library staff who provide services outside the physical building, including bookmobiles and community outreach.
  • Take Action for Libraries Day (Thursday, April 23, 2026): Encourages advocacy, calling on the public to contact representatives to support library funding and services.

During National Library Week, BPL encourages residents to visit their nearest location and explore the many free resources available across all 17 libraries. While BPL is best known for its extensive collection of books and research materials, here are 10 programs and activities also available at our libraries:

Blood Pressure Kits
Now available for checkout at all 17 BPL locations, these kits allow patrons to monitor their blood pressure at home, supporting preventive health and wellness. Learn more:
https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2023/08/q-with-american-heart-association-about.html

Passport Services
Residents can apply for passports at BPL’s Central, Avondale, and Springville Road libraries. Details:
https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2025/06/from-library-to-takeoff-get-your.html

Line Dance Classes
Free line dance classes at multiple branches help patrons stay active while learning popular dances such as “Boots on the Ground” and “Flex.” View the calendar:
www.cobpl.org/calendar

Library of Things
Through BPL and the Jefferson County Library Cooperative (JCLC), patrons can borrow nontraditional items using their library card, including:

Chair Aerobics and Yoga for Adults and Seniors
Several BPL locations offer free fitness classes, including chair yoga and aerobics. A standout program is Slide City Chair Aerobics at North Birmingham Regional Library, led by librarian Samantha Gaston.

Self-Care and Wellness Programming
BPL supports mental and physical health through programs such as:

  • “Self-Care Mastermind,” held monthly at Central Library
  • Community Health Support Group at North Birmingham Regional Library

Small Business Growth Workshop Series
Held every fourth Tuesday at Central Library, the “Profitable Pro Business Growth” series helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses. Learn more:
https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/03/free-monthly-business-growth-workshop.html

Bards & Brews Spoken Word Poetry Series
Now in its 16th year, this popular monthly event features local poets and craft breweries. More information: https://www.cobpl.org/programs/BardsBrews.aspx

Loud at the Library Concert Series
This live music series includes an upcoming International Jazz Day concert at noon on Thursday, April 30, in the park next to Central Library. Click here for info about the jazz concert https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/03/smooth-sounds-downtown-bpl-celebrates.html

Art for Everyone Exhibits
Supported by the Alabama State Council on the Arts, these exhibits at Central Library provide free access to visual art from local and regional artists.

For more information about programs, services, and events, visit www.cobpl.org or stop by any BPL location. View upcoming events at: www.cobpl.org/calendar

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

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