Birmingham Public Library Blog

On Thursday, October 2, the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) will host the Citywide Resource, Health, & 2nd-Chance Job Fair. Scheduled to take place at the Central Library from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., the event will celebrate the International Day of Non-Violence ,  connecting the public with organizations that foster peace and well-being in the community.   Presented in partnership with TRIO Educational Opportunity Center of UAB (TRIO EOC), the Citywide Resource Health, & 2nd-Chance Job Fair is an opportunity to gather information about resources and services offered by local nonprofits, apply for jobs (including with background-friendly employers), and get free health screenings. There will also be fun arts and crafts activities for both children and adults, as well as giveaways.   Among the topics addressed by the 40+ participating organizations and businesses are legal assistance, mental and physical health, education and skills training, the envi...

  What:  BPL’s Bards & Brews Open Mic Poetry  When:  Friday, October 3, 2025 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. (on-site registration opens at 6:00 p.m.) Where:  Vulcan Park & Museum,1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209 Details:  Join host  Thed Weller  as the Birmingham Public Library's spoken word poetry/craft beer event goes on the road for an open Mic at Vulcan Park & Museum. Entertainment will be provided by Brent Story.  Admission is  free to the public . Ages  18+ to enter ; must be  21+ with valid ID  to drink. Sponsors:  Bards & Brews is presented by the Birmingham Public Library, supported by a grant from the  Alabama State Council on the Arts  to the  Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library . Birmingham, Ala. -  The Birmingham Public Library invites you to experience the magic of spoken word as Bards & Brews hosts an Open Mic poetry event at Vulcan Park  M...

  Discover Your Roots: Family History Month at BPL’s Southern History Department October is National Family History Month, and the Birmingham Public Library’s Southern History Department is celebrating with a full calendar of exciting and educational programs. Whether you’re just beginning your genealogy journey or a seasoned researcher looking for new tools, you’ll find something to spark your interest. From AI in genealogy and DNA testing to Alabama ghost stories and a behind-the-scenes tour of the library’s treasured collections, these programs are designed to help you uncover the past and bring your family’s story to life. All programs are free and no advanced registration is necessary.  For more information, call the Southern History Department at 205-226-3665. Why Attend Family History Month at BPL? Learn practical skills to overcome genealogy roadblocks Explore cutting-edge tools like AI and DNA testing Connect with local experts and genealogists ...

"I Got You: A Brother's Promise" is a powerful look at the power of love between siblings 📖 I Got You: A Brother’s Promise Author: Derrick Barnes Illustrator: Shamar Knight-Justice I Got You: A Brother’s Promise is a heartwarming story that beautifully captures the unbreakable bond between two brothers. Derrick Barnes’ tender yet powerful writing shines a light on the strength of family, the power of love, and how a single promise can inspire courage in the face of life’s challenges. The illustrations by Shamar Knight-Justice, filled with warm colors and gentle details, create a “Home Sweet Home” feeling on every page. Scenes of Mom cuddling the baby and Big Brother protecting Little Brother radiate love, safety, and family togetherness. At its core, this book encourages kindness, empathy, and responsibility. Anthony’s promise to his younger brother is more than words. It represents loyalty, protection, and the kind of love that gives him the courage to take on anyt...

Irasema Quezada - Memory of a Milagro,  linen and cotton pulp, indigo dye The Birmingham Public Library celebrates  National Hispanic Heritage Month with an exhibition by artist  Irasema Quezada . Quezada’s installation, Simbolos de Duelo: Expressions of Love Through Mourning , will be on view in the Central Library's newly renovated Lobby Gallery from Friday, September 19 , through Friday, December 5 . Simbolos de Duelo: Expressions of Love Through Mourning is a tribute to Quezada’s Mexican grandmother and the strong influence she had on the artist’s life. The exhibition features boxes, paintings, screen prints, and handmade paper, with a significant reliance on the use of textiles. Together, the works make a strong statement about the survival, endurance, and continuity of Mexican culture.   An opening reception for Quezada and her show will take place on Friday, September 26 , from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Lobby Gallery . Both the exhibition and reception ...