Pratt City Branch Spotlight: Tai Chi Lessons and History of Jazz in Ensley Among New Programs
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Pratt City Branch Library hosts free Tai Chai classes. |
Birmingham, Ala. - As Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program enters its final weeks, Pratt City Branch Library is already looking ahead with new opportunities that encourage healthy living, lifelong learning and community conversation.
This July,
families can still enjoy the final Summer Reading activities, including a
magical journey through fossils and artifacts with Mr. Larry and another
popular healthy cooking demonstration with Chef Polly. Then in August, the
library shifts its focus to two exciting new programs designed especially for
adults: a beginner-friendly Tai Chi series that promotes balance, wellness and
relaxation, and a documentary discussion exploring the rich jazz heritage of
neighboring Ensley through the legendary story of Tuxedo Junction.
Whether
patrons are discovering healthier ways to stay active or reflecting on
Birmingham's rich musical history, Pratt City Branch continues to prove that
the library is a place where learning never takes a season off.
Pratt
City Branch Library at a Glance
Location:
509 Dugan Ave.,
Birmingham, AL 35214
Phone: (205) 791-4997
August Programs at Pratt City Branch
Beginner
Tai Chi for Seniors
Instructor:
Candace
"Candy" Shrum, Certified Tai Chi Instructor
When: Wednesdays in August (August 5, 12,
19 and 26)
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Tai Chi is
an ancient Chinese practice that combines gentle, flowing movements with
focused breathing and mindfulness to strengthen the mind, body and spirit.
Often described as "meditation in motion," Tai Chi is widely
recognized for improving balance, flexibility and overall well-being. While the
art has a rich history and lifelong depth, its basic movements are easy to
learn and can begin providing health benefits almost immediately.
https://taichiforhealthinstitute.org/what-is-tai-chi/
Pratt City
Branch Library's Beginner Tai Chi for Seniors is designed especially for
adults who have heard about Tai Chi but never knew where to start. Certified
instructor Candace "Candy" Shrum will introduce participants to
simple movements in a welcoming, supportive environment where no previous experience
is necessary. Accommodations can also be made for participants with lower
mobility.
Participants
will learn simple movement meditation techniques that can improve balance,
increase flexibility and help reduce the risk of falls while promoting
relaxation and overall wellness.
The
library offered its first Tai Chi class in June, and the response was
overwhelmingly positive. Many participants had heard about Tai Chi but had
never tried it before. Thanks to Candy Shrum's patient teaching style and
encouragement, attendees left feeling more confident and eager to continue
learning, prompting the library to expand the program into a month-long August
series.
Watch
and Discuss: Exploring Historic Ensley Through Jazz
Friday,
August 7
1 p.m.
Music
lovers and history enthusiasts alike are invited to take a fascinating journey
into Birmingham's past through a documentary exploring the legendary jazz scene
of historic Ensley and the enduring legacy of Tuxedo Junction.
Following
the screening, participants will engage in a lively discussion about what they
learned, why Ensley's musical history remains important and how its legacy
continues to influence Birmingham today.
The
library's Watch and Discuss programs have become favorites because they
encourage meaningful conversations among patrons while celebrating local
history, culture and shared experiences. Every documentary becomes an
opportunity not only to learn something new but also to hear personal memories
and perspectives from fellow community members.
Still
Time for Summer Reading Fun
Before
August arrives, Pratt City Branch still has two Summer Reading programs
families won't want to miss.
Can You
Dig It! Fossils, Artifacts and Magic
Tuesday,
July 7 | 10-11 a.m.
Mr. Larry
combines magic, storytelling, fossils and artifacts in an interactive show that
delights children while sparking curiosity about history and science.
The
Chef's Good Eats
Wednesday,
July 8 | 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Chef Polly
returns with another popular cooking demonstration focused on healthy eating,
nutrition and practical tips for preparing delicious meals that support a
healthier lifestyle.
Looking
Ahead
Whether
you're learning a new way to stay active through Tai Chi, exploring the rich
legacy of Ensley's jazz heritage, discovering healthy recipes with Chef Polly
or bringing the family to one last Summer Reading adventure, Pratt City Branch
Library offers opportunities for every generation to learn, connect and grow.
As Summer
Reading comes to a close, Pratt City Branch is already building momentum for
the months ahead with programs that nurture healthier lifestyles, celebrate
Birmingham's cultural heritage and strengthen community connections. The
seasons may change, but the library's commitment to enriching lives through
learning, wellness and fellowship continues all year long.
Written by Roy L. Williams, Public Relations Specialist - Birmingham Public Library
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