2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: Pratt City Branch Library

 

Live Zoo Animals, Magic Shows, Ice Cream and Chef Polly Make Summer Reading an Adventure at Pratt City Library

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Looking for a summer filled with live animals, hands-on science, magic, sweet treats and family fun? Pratt City Branch Library has something for every age as part of Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program, "Unearth a Story."

This summer, families can meet live Alabama wildlife, cool off with hula hoop games and free ice cream, enjoy an interactive magic show featuring fossils and artifacts, discover dinosaurs through exciting science programs, and pick up healthy cooking tips during a free cooking demonstration with Chef Polly.

From crafts inspired by Alabama fashion legend Ann Lowe to prehistoric fossil-making activities, Pratt City offers plenty of opportunities to learn, laugh and explore together.

Pratt City Branch Library
509 Dugan Ave.
Birmingham, AL 35214
(205) 791-4997

Here's a look at some of the exciting Summer Reading programs happening at Pratt City Branch Library.

Zoo to You: Amazing Alabama Animals
Monday, June 15 | 10–11 a.m.

Get up close with live ambassador animals while discovering why Alabama is often called "America's Amazon." Learn how reptiles, birds and mammals survive in the wild and how we can help protect wildlife found right here in our own backyards.

Unearth a Story with McWane Science Center
Tuesday, June 16 | 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Travel 4,000 miles beneath Earth's surface while exploring fossils, magma, magnets and geology through hands-on science.

Dynamic Education Adventure with The Science Lady
Tuesday, June 23 | 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Dinosaurs, fossils and exciting science experiments—including safe explosions—make this an unforgettable STEM adventure.

 

Can You Dig It! Fossils, Artifacts, and Magic
Tuesday, July 7 | 10–11 a.m.

Mr. Larry combines magic, storytelling and prehistoric discoveries in an interactive show featuring fossils and artifacts that will amaze children and families alike.

Crafting Couture: Discover the Story of Ann Lowe
Wednesday, June 17 | 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Create a beautiful rose brooch while learning about Alabama native and pioneering fashion designer Ann Lowe.

Fantastic Faux Fossils
Wednesday, June 24 | 1–2 p.m.

Create your own realistic-looking fossils while exploring plants, insects and ancient life.

Dogs, Games & Summer Fun

Michelle's Magical Poodles (Held at Ensley Recreation Center, 2800 Avenue K, Birmingham, AL 35218), co hosted by Pratt City and East Ensley branches)
Thursday, June 25 | 10–11 a.m.

Enjoy an entertaining dog show featuring amazing tricks and educational fun for the whole family.

Hula Hoop & an Ice Cream Scoop
Tuesday, June 30 | 1–2 p.m.

Celebrate summer with hula hoop games before cooling off with a free scoop of ice cream.

Healthy Cooking with Chef Polly

The Chef's Good Eats
Wednesday, July 8 | 1:30–2:30 p.m.

Chef Polly returns to share practical nutrition tips, healthy cooking techniques and another delicious live cooking demonstration designed to help families make healthier food choices.

Unearth Something New This Summer

Whether you're meeting live animals, enjoying magic and science, making crafts, learning healthy cooking techniques or cooling off with ice cream after hula hoop fun, Pratt City Branch Library offers an unforgettable lineup of free Summer Reading programs for all ages.

Stay tuned as our 2026 Summer Reading Spotlight series continues highlighting the unique experiences available at all 17 Birmingham Public Library locations.

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