Birmingham Public Library Blog

Magic City Classic Trivia Facts as BPL Prepares to Host Classic Cocktails on October 27

2026-10-01T12:22:50.915-05:00

By Roy L. Williams, Public Relations Specialist -Birmingham Public Library

Magic City Classic Trivia Facts as BPL Prepares to Host Classic Cocktails on October 27

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – As the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) prepares to host our 5th Annual Classic Cocktails fundraiser event to kick off 2026 Magic City Classic Week, we decided to test your knowledge about this annual showdown between the state's biggest HBCU institutions, the Alabama A&M Bulldogs and the Alabama State University Hornets.

Classic Cocktails will take place on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. at the Central Library (2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203). BPL's kickoff party to the Magic City Classic is sponsored by the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library.

More than just a party, Classic Cocktails sets the tone for an unforgettable week of tradition, rivalry, and Black excellence, bringing together fans of Alabama State and Alabama A&M to reminisce, reconnect, and raise a glass to 85 years of Classic memories while supporting our 17 libraries at the same time.

The Birmingham Public Library has put together this history lesson on what makes the Magic City Classic so special:

🏈 Why is Magic City Classic Week such a big deal?

Magic City Classic Week is a cultural largely African-American celebration that according to the event website (www.magiccityclassic.com) draws 200,000 people to metro Birmingham for a weeklong celebration, filling up hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and more, generating an economic impact of more than $25 million a year, according to the Greater Birmingham Convention Bureau.

An estimated 100,000 people will be at Legion Field for this year's October 31 game, including 69,000 inside the stadium and 30,000 tailgating outside.

Many African-Americans plan family reunions to Birmingham around the football game, which is slated for Saturday, October 31 at 2:30 p.m. this year. There will be dozens of reunions, events, parties exhibiting HBCU pride for the maroon and white-clad Bulldogs and gold and black-clad Hornets.

Although the annual football game is the ultimate climax of the week, many fans stay riveted for the feisty Halftime Battle of the Bands between the Alabama A&M Marching Maroon & White and the Alabama State Mighty Marching Hornets.

🏈 The Classic: A Legacy 82 Years Strong

Since 1945, the Magic City Classic has been more than a football game: it’s a cultural homecoming. In 2025, 69,372 fans packed Legion Field, continuing a streak of being the most attended HBCU Classic in the country. That surpassed the #2 Bayou Classic between Southern University and Grambling State University, which drew 63,010 to New Orleans, and #3 State Fair Classic between Grambling and Prairie View University, which attracted 63,169 to Dallas last year.

The Magic City Classic is far more than just a football game. It's about the tailgates, the fashion, the rivalries, and the lifelong memories made on and off the field. Classic Cocktails is the perfect setting to reconnect with classmates, share stories from legendary games, and relive the unforgettable moments that make the Magic City Classic more than just a football rivalry. Whether you’re reminiscing about campus life, your favorite halftime show, or that one epic tailgate, this event brings it all back.

Classic Cocktails offers a great chance to brush up on the Classic’s rich 85-year history through conversation, culture, and even a visit to the Birmingham Public Library’s digital archives.

Classic Quick Facts

Who leads the Magic City Classic?
As of 2025, Alabama A&M leads the all-time series with 43 wins, while Alabama State has earned 38 victories. There have been three ties. The Hornets have closed the gap with four straight wins, including last year's 56-13 beatdown of the Bulldogs.

How long has the game been held at Legion Field?
Legion Field in Birmingham has been home to the Magic City Classic since 1945, making it one of the most storied venues in HBCU football history.

🐶 Alabama A&M: A Legacy of Excellence Since 1875

Founded by formerly enslaved people as the Huntsville Normal School in 1875, Alabama A&M University has grown into a nationally recognized institution dedicated to academic excellence, STEM leadership, and community uplift. Home of the Bulldogs and the "Showband of the South," A&M has long been a proud symbol of Black achievement in Alabama and beyond. Its beautiful hilltop campus, affectionately called "The Hill," continues to produce generations of scholars, leaders, and culture-shapers.

🐝 Alabama State: Hornet Pride Since 1867

Established in 1867 by nine formerly enslaved men as the Lincoln Normal School, Alabama State University in Montgomery has become a cornerstone of HBCU legacy in the Deep South. Known for its vibrant campus life, trailblazing alumni, and the powerhouse Mighty Marching Hornets, ASU holds deep roots in civil rights history and higher education. From Rosa Parks' connections to today’s thriving academic programs, Alabama State remains a beacon of Black excellence and resilience.

🎺 Who Runs Halftime?

Let’s be real: some fans come for the football, but the battle of the bands is the big draw for many.

Alabama A&M’s Marching Maroon and White, known as the “Showband of the South,” has been captivating audiences since 1890.
Alabama State’s Mighty Marching Hornets never disappoint. When the Honey Beez hit the field, the crowd is on its feet as they show that big girls can dance too.

👑 Legends Walk These Sidelines

From NFL icons like John Stallworth, Tarvaris Jackson, and Robert Mathis, to cultural legends like Sun Ra, Rosa Parks, Tarana Burke, and Rickey Smiley, the Magic City Classic represents generations of excellence from both universities.

🎉 More Than Just a Party

Classic Cocktails supports the Birmingham Public Library’s mission to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and enjoyment.

Guests will enjoy:

🎶 High-energy music by DJ French Kiss
🍗 Tailgate-style food
🍹 Two signature cocktails included
🥃 A premium cigar + access to the Lion’s Den Cigar Bus

More than just a party, Classic Cocktails supports the Birmingham Public Library’s mission to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment. Classic Cocktails is the perfect way to jumpstart your Magic City Classic Week.

✅ Want More Info?

📅 Classic Cocktails Event Info & Tickets

🗓️ Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 5:30 – 9:00 p.m.
📍 Central Library | 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL
🎟️ Ticket and event Details: https://bplclassiccocktails26.eventbrite.com

🎟️ Click here to buy tickets now on Eventbrite

Drink, Dance, Make a Difference: BPL's Classic Cocktails Kicks Off Magic City Classic Week

2026-09-30T14:48:32.717-05:00

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

🥂 Classic Cocktails at BPL: One Unforgettable Evening, Where Every Drink Has a Story 🥂

Kick off 2026 Magic City Classic Week by celebrating at the place of learning that supports communities across Birmingham: the Birmingham Public Library.

The 5th Annual Classic Cocktails is happening Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. at the Birmingham Public Library downtown (2100 Park Place). This isn’t just another party; it’s a high-energy celebration in a space that already serves as a safe hub for our city year-round.

As fans of Alabama's two largest HBCU institutions gather to get ready for the Saturday's largest Black college football classic in the nation, BPL is transforming for one night only into a stunning, nightclub-inspired venue lit in maroon and white (Alabama A&M) and black and gold (Alabama State). It’s where you’ll see friends, make new connections, and set the tone for the rest of Classic Week.

📚 More Than Books - Libraries Transform Communities

The Birmingham Public Library is the heart of the community, serving 17 locations across the city. We offer:

🎓 STEM programs and afterschool activities for youth
☀️ Summer Reading and enrichment activities
📶 Free Wi-Fi and public computer access
🧓🏽👧🏽 Crafting programs for seniors and children
💃🏽🕺🏾 Adult line dancing and technology classes
📖 Storytimes and early learning activities
🎤 Bards & Brews, our monthly spoken word–poetry series

🖼️ Free art exhibits featuring local and regional artists

City funding helps us get started, but it doesn’t cover everything. Classic Cocktails raises essential funds that help us expand these programs and serve more Birmingham neighborhoods.

🍸 What Awaits You at Classic Cocktails?

Let the stories flow. Let the music move you. Let Classic Week begin.

Your ticket includes:

🎧 DJ French Kiss spinning your favorite line dances and R&B hits
🍗 Tailgate-inspired food
🍹 Two signature cocktails
🥃 A premium cigar + access to the Lion’s Den Cigar Bus
🎉 A safe, vibrant environment unlike anything you’ve seen at the library before

Classic Cocktails is the perfect way to gather with your college crew, your family, or fellow alumni and start Classic Week with energy and purpose. Every drink has a story. Every moment makes a difference.

🥃✨ One Unforgettable Evening, Where Every Drink Has a Story.
As the pour hits the glass, the night begins...

Join us for a night where cocktails meet conversation, and every detail is crafted to perfection.

🍸📖Let the stories flow.

Let the music move you.

Let 2026 Magic City Classic Week begin.

📅 Classic Cocktails Event Info & Tickets

🗓️ Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 5:30 – 9:00 p.m.
📍 Central Library | 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL
🎟️ Ticket and event Details: https://bplclassiccocktails26.eventbrite.com

🎟️ Click here to buy tickets now on Eventbrite

Birmingham Public Library 2026 Family History Month Activities Kick Off With Open House on October 3

2026-09-29T17:38:13.221-05:00

Discover Your Roots: BPL Celebrates Family History Month in October

October is National Family History Month, and the Birmingham Public Library’s Southern History Department is celebrating with a full calendar of free programs designed to help you explore your family’s story.

Whether you’re taking your first steps into genealogy or you’re a seasoned researcher looking for new tools and resources, BPL has something for you. Throughout October, programs will cover everything from traditional genealogy research and historic newspapers to DNA testing, cookbooks, WorldCat and the search for family members separated by slavery.

All programs are free, and advance registration is not required. For more information, call the Southern History Department at 205-226-3665.

Activities begin Saturday, October 3, with a Family History Month Open House where visitors can meet experts from the Birmingham Genealogical Society and members of the Southern History Department staff. The month also features presentations by Dr. Judy Giesberg and Birmingham’s Bettina Byrd-Giles exploring the powerful stories of formerly enslaved people searching for family members.

Here’s a look at the full October lineup:

Saturday, October 3 | 1-3 p.m.

Central Library – Southern History Department

Family History Month Open House

Stop by the Southern History Department and meet experts from the Birmingham Genealogical Society for a free research consultation. Bring your genealogy “brick walls” and meet a dedicated group of genealogists eager to help.

Learn more about how the Birmingham Genealogical Society supports genealogy and local history and how you can become a part of the organization.

Monday, October 5 | 11 a.m.

Central Library – 4th Floor Computer Lab and online via Teams

Essential Genetic Genealogy, Revised for 2026

If you want to get started in genetic genealogy, there is a simple way to put your DNA test to work. Paul Boncella explains what genetic genealogy can do, where to find the necessary tools on a testing company’s website and how to use them effectively. He will also answer questions about genetic genealogy.

Join online: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/220452694912704?p=uPBKPkxjMNdWxAr7tH

Wednesday, October 7 | 11 a.m.

Central Library – 4th Floor Computer Lab and online via Teams

BPL’s Newspaper Clipping File Collection

The library’s newspaper clipping files span more than 50 years and number in the thousands. Learn about the history of this one-of-a-kind collection and discover some of the treasures found inside. And, as you’ll learn, it’s about more than just newspapers!

Join online: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/247431763177427?p=ai3B7WmqV4AIwHMzYH

Saturday, October 10 | 10 a.m.

Central Library – 1st Floor

Last Seen: The Enduring Search by Formerly Enslaved People to Find Their Lost Families with Dr. Judy Giesberg

Drawing from an archive of nearly 5,000 letters and advertisements, Last Seen tells the powerful story of formerly enslaved people who spent years searching for family members separated from them during slavery.

Saturday, October 10 | 11:30 a.m.

Central Library – 1st Floor

Diana: Five Generations of Separation with Bettina Byrd-Giles

Bettina Byrd-Giles shares the story of her ancestor, Diana Johnson, and her journey from enslavement to freedom. The presentation explores newspaper advertisements Diana placed across the country searching for her parents and siblings.

The program also includes a short student film, “Letters,” comparing Diana’s newspaper advertisements with some of Frederick Douglass’s speeches. Byrd-Giles will also discuss how a website and a book ultimately helped uncover more of Diana’s story.

Monday, October 12 | 11 a.m.

Central Library – 4th Floor Computer Lab and online via Teams

Cookbooks: A Recipe for Genealogy and Local History

Cookbooks are more than collections of recipes. They can provide a fascinating glimpse into what people ate and enjoyed while offering clues about an ancestor’s church or club membership, place of employment and community connections.

Join online: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/228372518974884?p=ualeqBw69cBOu6Qx1r

Wednesday, October 21 | 11 a.m.

Central Library – 4th Floor Computer Lab and online via Teams

WorldCat for the Genealogist

Family-history research once required extensive travel and correspondence to locate the right materials. WorldCat can help bring the collections of libraries around the world to your fingertips.

Learn the basics of WorldCat along with specific tips and resources for using it in genealogical research.

Join online: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/293142284417343?p=RXLnrVfLClwtnUEUn6

Saturday, October 24 | 10 a.m.

Central Library – Southern History Department

Intro to Genealogy

Ready to begin researching your family history? This introductory class will help you get started on your genealogical journey. Southern History Department staff will cover important research sources and techniques, including vital records, courthouse and church records and the Federal Census.

Monday, October 26 | 11 a.m.

Central Library – Southern History Department

Behind the Scenes Tour

BPL's Paul Boncella with Hitachi San, 4-foot puppet on display in the Southern History Department. On right is Hitachi San converted into a Japanese Samurai Warrior.

2016 photo of then-8 year old Ashley Hudson meeting Miss Iwate

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the Southern History Department and discover some of the special collections and treasures housed at BPL.

Learn about the history of the Research Library and explore its genealogy materials, maps and microfilm. The tour also offers a look at treasures including Miss Iwate (BPL’s Japanese friendship doll), the Blaeu Atlas and the 1926 Zone map of Birmingham.

The Southern History Department team is eager to show you what makes BPL’s Special Collections unique.

Wednesday, October 28 | 11 a.m.

Central Library – 4th Floor Computer Lab and online via Teams

DNA Clustering Tools and Techniques

The ability to group DNA matches by ancestral branches was once primarily the domain of genetic genealogy experts. Today, three of the four major testing company websites offer tools that automate this process.

Paul Boncella explains what clustering tools can do, how to access them and how to use them effectively. He will also answer questions about DNA clustering and other aspects of genetic genealogy.

Join online: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/236517554824808?p=bbgMxmikdIdcJSd5lB

Start Your Family History Journey at BPL

Whether your family-history research begins with a name, an old photograph, a newspaper clipping or a DNA test, the Birmingham Public Library’s Southern History Department offers resources and expertise to help you uncover the stories of those who came before you.

For more information, contact the Southern History Department at 205-226-3665.

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

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
Experience the rich history of Alabama through stories and rare collections
Celebrate your heritage with a supportive community

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

Join BPL’s Bards & Brews Open Mic This Friday, October 2 at Lucky Stranger in Avondale

2026-09-29T14:01:18.225-05:00

Bards & Brews: Open Mic Night

When: Friday, Oct. 2, 2026
Doors: 6 p.m.; event begins at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Lucky Stranger, 4036 5th Ave. S., Birmingham
Featured Musical Artist: Olivia Leonard
Host: Thed Weller

Must be 18+ to enter | 21+ to drink. Bards & Brews is supported by the Alabama State Council on the Arts

Ready to Share Spoken Word Poetry Before a Live Audience?

The Birmingham Public Library’s Bards & Brews: Open Mic Night is going on the road this Friday, Oct. 2, for an evening of poetry, music and creative expression at Lucky Stranger in Avondale.

Doors open at 6 p.m., with the event beginning at 6:30 p.m. Featured artist Olivia Leonard will kick off the evening, followed by performances from some of metro Birmingham’s talented spoken-word artists.

If you’ve been waiting for your chance to get behind the microphone, this is your opportunity to show off your skills before a live audience.

Bards & Brews is supported by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, presented to the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library.

Written by Roy L. Williams, PR Specialist - Birmingham Public Library

Birmingham Public Library Hosting Passport & Travel Agent Fair on October 24

2026-09-29T13:24:13.657-05:00

What: Passport & Travel Agent Fair
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026|10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Birmingham Public Library-1st Floor
2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203

About the event: BPL's Passport & Travel Agent Fair is a great opportunity for travel agents to meet potential clients who are thinking about their next vacation, international adventure or other travel experience. Patrons will be able to get information on how to get passports at the Birmingham Public Library.

Birmingham, Ala. - The Birmingham Public Library is inviting travel professionals to participate in its Passport & Travel Agent Fair, where local residents can connect with travel experts while getting ready for their next trip.

The Passport & Travel Agent Fair is a great opportunity for travel agents to meet potential clients who are thinking about their next vacation. Participating travel agents will have an opportunity to introduce their services, answer questions, share travel expertise and connect with people who are ready to start planning.

While at the passport fair October 24 in the downtown library, check out the Birmingham Black Child Book Fair event being hosted by organizer Darryl Harvey from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Passport Services at Birmingham Public Library

The Birmingham Public Library offers passport services at Central Library and Avondale Regional Branch Library, assisting with new passport applications, renewals, required documents, passport photos and application fees. Central Library accepts walk-ins, while Avondale Regional Branch requires an appointment.

For complete information about passport requirements, fees, hours, locations and how to apply, visit Passport Services | Birmingham Public Library.

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

Small Magic to Kick Off Ready Saturdays and Expect More at Birmingham Public Library on October 3

2026-09-29T07:46:45.639-05:00

What: Ready Saturdays and Expect More, a free, play-based learning program for parents, caregivers and their families

When: Every Saturday in October and November, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Where: Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203

Cost: Free

Registration required for Expect More by October 1; Drop-ins are welcome at Ready Saturdays.

Participating parents and caregivers can scan the BPL flyers above for more details. For more information about Small Magic, visit www.smallmagic.org.

Small Magic to Kick Off Ready Saturdays and Expect More at Birmingham Public Library on October 3

Free Saturday Program Gives Families a Place to Play, Learn and Grow Together

The Birmingham Public Library is excited to host Birmingham-based Small Magic’s Ready Saturdays and Expect More, two free play-based early learning programs.

Beginning on October 3, families are invited to spend Saturday mornings playing, learning and growing together through activities designed to help young children build important early literacy and learning skills. Small Magic will host two free programs for families this fall, Ready Saturdays and Expect More.

Ready Saturdays encourages parents and caregivers to slow down, follow their child’s lead and discover simple ways to support learning through everyday moments. Trained educators will provide activities, guidance and encouragement while families learn together in a welcoming library environment.

Expect Moore is a program designed to provide support for expecting parents during weeks 12 through 32 of pregnancy.

Hosting Small Magic’s “Ready Saturdays” and “Expect More” programs fits the Birmingham Public Library (BPL)’s mission “to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment, said Janine Langston, BPL’s executive director.

“Programs like Ready Saturdays and Expect More give families an opportunity to learn practical strategies they can take home while also making the library a fun place for children and caregivers to connect,” Langston said.

Through Ready Saturdays and Expect More, families will discover how play can help children:

Build language and communication skills.
Develop curiosity and creativity.
Strengthen connections with parents and caregivers.
Learn through everyday experiences.
Develop early literacy skills in a fun, natural way.

Parents and caregivers will also receive ideas and activities they can use at home as they continue supporting their child's learning.

Small Magic emphasizes that parents and caregivers are their child's first teachers, and Ready Saturdays is designed to give families the tools, confidence and encouragement to embrace that role. Expect More will provide expecting parents with skills helping them be successful in raising young children.

About Small Magic

Small Magic (www.smallmagic.org) supports the future stability and prosperity of our community by focusing on our most precious resource: our children. Our innovative programs embrace cutting-edge technology and the deep involvement of parents and teachers to ensure all the children in our community are prepared for kindergarten and a lifetime of economic mobility.

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

Titusville Branch Library Reopens Following Renovation and Renewal

2026-09-24T15:21:15.758-05:00

What: Titusville Branch Library Grand Reopening

When: Tuesday, September 29, 2026 @ 3 p.m.

Where: Titusville Branch Library
#2 6th Avenue SW
Birmingham, AL 35211

Titusville Branch Library Reopens Following Renovation and Renewal

The Birmingham Public Library’s Titusville Branch has reopened its doors following a short renovation that brought new flooring, updated furnishings and other improvements to the neighborhood library.

The Titusville branch, located at 2 6th Avenue SW, closed this summer and reopened to the public on Monday, September 21. The community will celebrate the library branch’s reopening during a Grand Reopening Celebration at 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 29.

The celebration will include opening remarks, recognition of special guests, reflections on the history and the significance of the Titusville Branch Library. The reopening celebration will also feature acknowledgments of community partners and supporters, refreshments and an opportunity for guests to tour the newly refreshed library.

The renovation included newly installed flooring, updated furnishings and additional enhancements intended to improve the functionality, appearance, accessibility and overall experience for library patrons. The children's area also received two new tables and chairs.

For Titusville Branch Library Manager Reba Williams-Patton, MLIS, Ph.D., the reopening is about more than a renovated physical space. The improvements mark a new chapter for a branch that has longstanding ties to North Titusville, South Titusville, Woodland Park and surrounding neighborhoods.

Since joining the Titusville Branch, Williams-Patton said she has worked intentionally to change the narrative surrounding what a neighborhood library can represent and accomplish.

“Public libraries are not simply repositories of information; they are civic and social institutions that facilitate access, connection, learning, belonging, opportunity, and community empowerment,” she said.

“The reopening of the Titusville Branch is an important milestone, but it is not the culmination of our work,” Williams-Patton said. “We are not finished. There are still relationships to strengthen, opportunities to create, programs to develop, and new ways for the library to demonstrate its relevance and value to the community.”

The Titusville Branch Grand Reopening Celebration will provide community members, special guests, library supporters and community partners an opportunity to see the improvements firsthand and celebrate the continued role of the library as a community resource.

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

Nature Speaks: The Art of Carl Smith on View at BPL

2026-09-18T09:23:11.477-05:00

Carl Smith – Lips | 2023 | Mimosa | 27” x 17” x 12”

The Birmingham Public Library is proud to feature the works of artist Carl Smith in an upcoming exhibition titled Nature Speaks. Scheduled to open at the Central Library on Friday, September 25, the show features unique statues, pedestals, and wall pieces that Smith deftly fashions from the found remains of trees and vines. Please join Smith at a reception celebrating his new exhibition at 4:00 p.m. in Sculpture Gallery. (Afterwards, enjoy BPL’s annual blues concert.)

The self-taught Smith has been working with wood for over 40 years. He began collecting driftwood while working for the Birmingham Water Works at the Cahaba Pumping Station, where he performed water-quality testing. Since then, he has continued collecting strikingly shaped pieces of wood in parks, along roadsides, and in bodies of water.

Smith’s expertise lies in recognizing and resurrecting the innate beauty of the wood he finds. He is drawn to pieces that resemble animals, birds, clouds, dancers, flowers, and even ghosts and aliens, though he acknowledges that his works are perceived differently depending on the viewer. Cedar, cherry, mulberry, Southern red oak, sycamore, walnut, and wisteria are just a few examples of the many tree species he works with.

Carl Smith - Balancing Wood | 2014|
Southern red oak, English ivy vine, mulberry base | 24'' x 36'' x 12''

At his Fairfield studio, Smith transforms detritus-covered, sometimes insect-ridden, pieces of wood into works of art that correspond to his initial visions. To accomplish this, the wood goes through various phases of cleaning, sanding, and polishing. Among the tools Smith employs are a hand dremel with bits, a grinder with sanding pads, and a drill with wire brush attachments. Using numerous methods, he skillfully reveals the wood’s natural colors, textures, and patterns.

Through his vision and subsequent rejuvenation of found wood, Smith considers that he is simply allowing Nature to speak. It is no coincidence that he named his art practice “Nature’s Art.” Smith attributes his remarkable talent to God: “Thank God for eyes to see the beauty in a piece of wood lying on the ground or drifting down the river.”

In the artwork of Carl Smith, Nature seems to speak a mesmerizing visual poetry of her own.

Carl in his element.

About the artist

Carl Smith was born in Georgetown, South Carolina, and was raised in Birmingham, Alabama. He graduated from A.H. Parker High School. His artwork has been featured in festivals throughout Central Alabama, including Magic City Art Connection and Moss Rock Festival. Learn more about Smith and his work on his Facebook page.

“Nature Speaks” will be on view in the Sculpture Gallery through Saturday, December 5. Smith will host an artist’s talk on Saturday, October 17, at 2:00 p.m. This exhibition and accompanying activity are made possible in part by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

Written by Margaret Splane, Library Assistant III - Art for Everyone, Community Engagement, Fundraising

Birmingham Public Library Adds Free Pure Flix Streaming Service for Birmingham Residents

2026-09-17T13:08:31.073-05:00

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Sept. 17, 2026 – Birmingham Public Library cardholders now have free access to Pure Flix, a faith and family streaming service offering movies and television series for viewers of all ages.

Through a partnership with Library Ideas, LLC, Birmingham Pu
blic Library is providing residents with unlimited, ad-free streaming of Pure Flix content at no cost with a valid library card and PIN.

Pure Flix features a wide selection of family-friendly movies and series, including original productions such as Ainsley McGregor Mysteries, Jep and Jess: Beyond the Bayou, When Hope Calls: Brookfield, County Rescue and Crossroad Springs. The collection also includes romances, dramas and inspirational stories featuring actors such as Candace Cameron Bure, Danica McKellar, Jen Lilley and Trevor Donovan.

Birmingham Public Library is always looking for new ways to expand the digital resources available to our community. Pure Flix gives Birmingham residents another convenient option for enjoying family-friendly entertainment from home or on the go.

Below is all you need to known about how to use Pure Flix.

Access: Pure Flix can be streamed on smart TVs, smartphones, tablets and computers, providing convenient access to quality entertainment at home or on the go. There is no daily streaming limit, and users can stream simultaneously on multiple devices. Premium content is not included with the library subscription.

Who is eligible? Birmingham residents with a valid Birmingham Public Library card and PIN.

How to access Pure Flix: The easiest way is for Birmingham library cardholders to click here at Pure Flix and type in their card information and password. O you can visit pureflix.libraryideas.com, search for Birmingham Public Library and log in with your library card information. First-time users will be prompted to create a free Pure Flix account.

To learn more about Pure Flix and other digital resources available through Birmingham Public Library, visit our website at www.cobpl.org.

About Birmingham Public Library

With 17 locations, Birmingham Public Library is one of the largest public library systems in the Southeast. The mission of the Birmingham Public Library is to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment.

About Library Ideas

Library Ideas, established in 2009, is a global media company dedicated to delivering innovative digital solutions to libraries worldwide. Serving more than 10,000 institutions in more than 40 countries, the company offers digital tools for reading, learning and listening.

Written by Roy L. Williams, PR Specialist- Birmingham Public Library

Need Help Growing Your Small Business? BPL’s Network Navigator Can Connect You to Local Resources

2026-09-10T12:50:20.962-05:00

Network Navigator: Your Connection to Local Small Business Resources

First Session: Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Time: 12–1:30 p.m.
Location: Birmingham Public Library, Woodlawn Branch
Audience: Adults and Seniors
Cost: Free
Registration: Required/encouraged
Presenter: Naila Jackson, Birmingham entrepreneurial advocate
Contact: Jim Murray | 205-226-3640 | jim.murray@cobpl.org

Lunch will be provided to the first 25 registered participants.

Registration: Click here to register

Three Opportunities to Navigate Your Business Resources

The Network Navigator series will be presented at three Birmingham Public Library locations this fall:

Woodlawn Branch Library
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
12–1:30 p.m.

Five Points West Branch Library
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
5:30–7 p.m.

North Birmingham Branch Library
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
12–1:30 p.m.

Need Help Growing Your Small Business? BPL’s Network Navigator Can Connect You to Local Resources

By Roy Williams | Birmingham Public Library

Starting or running a small business can be exciting—but knowing where to find the right resources, services and support can sometimes be a challenge.

That’s where the Birmingham Public Library’s new Network Navigator: Your Connection to Local Small Business Resources series can help.

Beginning Tuesday, September 15, BPL will offer a series of free programs designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners discover and effectively use the Network Navigator online database.

The series will be led by Naila Jackson, a Birmingham-based entrepreneurial advocate, who will demonstrate how Network Navigator can help connect business owners with valuable local resources, services and support.

Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, already operating one or looking for resources to help take your business to the next level, this program is designed to help you navigate the local business landscape.

Each session will cover the same material, but participants are welcome to attend multiple sessions if they would like additional opportunities to learn and explore the resources.

And there’s another incentive to register early: lunch or dinner will be provided to the first 25 registered participants at each session.

Your next business resource may be closer than you think. And it may be waiting for you at the Birmingham Public Library.

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

Loud at the Library Presents Books, Blues & BBQ Concert on September 25 at Downtown Birmingham Public Library

2026-09-09T14:23:47.326-05:00

What happens when you mix the sounds of the blues with good barbecue in one of Birmingham's best places to gather? You get an evening of Books, Blues & BBQ at the downtown Birmingham Public Library (BPL).

BPL's 2026 Loud at the Library series concludes on Friday, September 25, with a free concert featuring Rachel Edwards with John Holaway at the Central Library, 2100 Park Place. From soulful blues and great music to barbecue and the welcoming atmosphere of the library, this is a Friday evening designed for music lovers, families, friends, and anyone looking for something fun to do.

Books, Blues & BBQ

📅 When: Friday, September 25, 2026 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
📍 Where: Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
🎶 Who: Rachel Edwards with John Holaway
💵 Admission: Free and open to the public

Blues and barbecue are a perfect pairing. Add books and a library setting, and you have a recipe for a memorable Birmingham evening.

Meet Rachel Edwards

Rachel Bernice Edwards is an accomplished vocalist and singer-songwriter from Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Classically trained and steeped in soulful Southern blues, Edwards has performed in Germany for the 250th Anniversary of Amadeus Mozart, at Carnegie Hall, the International Blues Competition, and at festivals, venues, and juke joints throughout the Southeast.

She has shared the stage with legendary performers including Bobby Rush, Ruthie Foster, and Chuck Leavell. Her powerful voice, soulful style, and infectious joy make her a performer who can quickly connect with an audience.

Edwards was inducted into the Alabama Blues Hall of Fame as a Master Blues Artist in July 2019, adding another significant honor to her accomplished career.

Meet John Holaway

John Holaway is a guitarist, vocalist, and music educator based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. A performer throughout the Southeast, Holaway blends blues, funk, jazz, R&B, country, and rock with a laid-back, soulful style.

Whether he's performing onstage or teaching others, Holaway is passionate about sharing the joy of music.

Together, Rachel Edwards and John Holaway will bring their soulful sound to the downtown library for an evening of live music, community, and fun.

And, of course, there will be barbecue.

BBQ will be available while supplies last.

So grab a friend, bring the family, and make plans to spend Friday evening downtown with the Birmingham Public Library.

Come for the books. Stay for the blues. And enjoy the BBQ.

For more information about Loud at the Library and other Birmingham Public Library programs, visit www.cobpl.org or follow BPL on social media.

Written by Roy L. Williams, PR Specialist for Birmingham Public Library

Springville Road Regional LIbrary Hosting Free Sept. 15 Workshop, "AI Made Simple: Practical AI for Everyday Use"

2026-09-09T13:10:26.057-05:00

AI Made Simple: Practical AI for Everyday Use

Date: Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Time: 6–7 p.m.
Location: Springville Road Regional Branch Library, 1224 Springville Road, Birmingham, AL 35215
Format: In person or virtual
Cost: Free
Presenter: Leila Lewis, Solid Ground Strategies
Overview: Discover easy, real-world AI tips to boost your daily life—no tech skills needed!

Audience: Individuals, entrepreneurs, business owners and anyone interested in learning more about AI
Registration: Required

In-person registration: practicalAIbpl.eventbrite.com

Virtual registration: Register for the virtual class

Contact: Springville Road Regional Library at 205-226-4083

Workshop presenter: Leila Lewis | leila@sgroundstrat.com
Website: Solid Ground Strategies (https://www.sgroundstrat.com/)

AI Made Simple: Practical AI for Everyday Use—For Business and Everyday Life

Birmingham, Ala. - Artificial intelligence is no longer just a topic for technology experts. AI is becoming an everyday tool that can help people work smarter, save time, explore ideas and accomplish routine tasks.

The Birmingham Public Library is offering a free workshop to help patrons understand AI better.

AI Made Simple: Practical AI for Everyday Use will be presented Tuesday, September 15, at the Springville Road Regional Library, 1224 Springville Road. The free one-hour workshop will introduce participants to practical ways AI tools can be used in everyday life.

Workshop presenter Leila Lewis of Solid Ground Strategies will guide participants through practical, real-world ways AI can be used for everyday tasks. The class is designed for both individuals and businesses, making it a useful opportunity for anyone who wants to better understand this rapidly changing technology.

AI Made Simple is designed to make common AI questions easier to answer. The goal is to help individuals and business owners better understand the technology and discover ways it can become a useful part of their daily lives.

How Can AI Help You?

The answer may depend on what you do.

For a small business owner, AI could help brainstorm ideas, draft communications, develop social media content, organize information or get a project started.

For a student or job seeker, it could become a tool for brainstorming, research assistance, organizing information or preparing for a new opportunity.

For someone at work, AI may help with writing, summarizing information, generating ideas or tackling routine tasks.

And for everyday life, AI can be useful for planning, learning, organizing and exploring new ideas.

The important thing is learning how to use AI thoughtfully and effectively.

Join Us In Person or Online

BPL is making the September 15 workshop accessible in two ways.

You can attend in person at the Springville Road Regional Library or participate virtually from wherever you are.

Whether you're a business owner looking for ways to work more efficiently, a professional trying to keep up with changing technology, or simply someone curious about how AI can make everyday tasks easier, this workshop is for you.

Come with your questions. Leave with practical ideas.

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

Early Bird Tickets for 2026 Classic Cocktails Now Available at Birmingham Public Library Through September 15

2026-09-08T08:18:43.914-05:00

Early Bird Ticket Sales Now Available at Birmingham Public Library Through September 15

📅 Save the date for 2026 Classic Cocktails: Tuesday, October 27, 2025, 5:30 - 9:00 p.m.

🎟️ Buy Tickets Now: https://BPLClassicCocktails26.Eventbrite.com

📍 Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203

Magic City Classic fans, get ready for the ultimate Classic Week party! The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) 's 2026 Classic Cocktails is coming - and so is your chance to save $5 per ticket when you purchase early! But hurry, this deal only lasts through Tuesday, September 15.

Guests will enjoy:

🎶 High-energy music by DJ French Kiss
🍗 Tailgate-style food
🍹 Two signature cocktails included
🥃 A premium cigar + access to the Lion’s Den Cigar Bus

Join us at the Birmingham Public Library for the 5th Annual Classic Cocktails fundraising event, a kickoff party leading up to the 2026 Magic City Classic football game. The evening will feature signature drinks, fun games, a cigar lounge, and more.

Whether you're a fan of the Alabama A&M University Bulldogs or the Alabama State University Hornets - or simply want to experience the excitement leading up to this historic sports competition - Classic Cocktails promises to be a night to remember!

Participating in Classic Cocktails will help the Birmingham Public Library continue to provide the community with the highest-quality experience of lifelong learning and cultural enrichment.

Classic Cocktails is the perfect way to jumpstart your Magic City Classic Week. BPL's kickoff party to the Magic City Classic is sponsored by the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library.

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

Four Weeks of Chair Yoga with Coach Tru: What I Learned About Slowing Down

2026-09-01T09:14:34.294-05:00

4 Weeks of Chair Yoga with Coach Tru: A First-Person Experience at Birmingham Public Library

By Roy L. Williams | Public Relations Specialist, Birmingham Public Library

Four weeks ago, I walked into the Birmingham Public Library with a camera in my hand and no idea what to expect from Chair Yoga.

Last Thursday, August 27, I completed my fourth and final class of the five-week series with instructor Jaynea “Coach Tru” Milhouse.

I missed one class because of a work conflict, so while the series continued for five weeks, I personally experienced four sessions.

And somewhere along the way, I learned something I wasn't expecting.

Sometimes slowing down is exactly what we need.

Lesson No. 1: You Don't Have to Be Good at It

When I started Chair Yoga, I was a complete beginner.

Flexibility has never been my strength. Neither has balance.

Over the four weeks, there were stretches I couldn't quite reach and movements that challenged me more than I expected.

But Coach Tru never made me feel like I was competing with anyone else.

Her message was simple: meet your body where it is.

That changed the way I approached the classes.

I stopped worrying about whether I could do a movement perfectly and started concentrating on simply doing what I could.

Lesson No. 2: Breathing Really Does Make a Difference

Every class began with Coach Tru encouraging us to close our eyes, clear our minds and focus on our breathing.

At first, it seemed simple.

Take a deep breath.

Let it out.

Repeat.

But after a few classes, I began to understand why she emphasized it so much.

I spend much of my workday writing, answering emails, taking photographs, preparing for interviews and moving from one assignment to the next.

Chair Yoga gave me permission to stop.

For one hour, I didn't have to think about the next deadline.

I just had to breathe.

Lesson No. 3: Balance Is About More Than Standing on One Leg

During one of the classes, Coach Tru challenged us to stand behind our chairs and balance on one leg.

Let's just say balance isn't my superpower.

I struggled.

I held onto the chair.

I tried again.

I lost my balance.

But Coach Tru reminded us not to compare ourselves with anyone else.

“Be you.”

That lesson stayed with me.

Balance isn't just something we practice physically. We also need balance in our everyday lives — between work and home, responsibilities and personal time, and the demands of life and taking care of ourselves.

That may have been one of the most valuable lessons I took away from the entire series.

Lesson No. 4: It's OK to Slow Down

Perhaps the biggest lesson I learned during these four weeks was also the simplest.

It's OK to slow down.

In a world that constantly tells us to move faster, accomplish more and stay busy, Chair Yoga gave me an hour each week to do the opposite.

Slow down.

Breathe.

Stretch.

Relax.

Be present.

By the end of each class, I felt more relaxed than when I walked through the door.

And I began to appreciate that wellness isn't always about how hard you can work your body.

Sometimes wellness is about giving your body — and your mind — a chance to rest.

More Than a Workout

My four weeks with Coach Tru also gave me another perspective on what Birmingham Public Library can be.

Libraries are places where people come to read, learn, use technology, attend programs and connect with their communities.

They can also be places where people take care of themselves.

Chair Yoga is one example.

Birmingham Public Library also offers wellness opportunities such as Chair Aerobics, Tai Chi, line dancing and programs focused on mental and emotional well-being.

I've now experienced two of those programs from the participant's side.

And I understand them differently because I did more than photograph them.

I participated.

My Challenge to You

My hope is that more people throughout the Birmingham Public Library system will take advantage of the free wellness programs available at our libraries.

Chair Yoga is one option.

There are also Chair Aerobics, Tai Chi, line dancing and other opportunities to get moving and connect with your community.

And wellness isn't just about physical health.

Birmingham Public Library also offers programs such as the monthly Self Care Mastermind, giving patrons opportunities to focus on their mental and emotional well-being.

I've spent the past month discovering that taking care of yourself doesn't have to mean running miles, lifting weights or spending hours in a gym.

Sometimes it means sitting in a chair.

Closing your eyes.

Taking a deep breath.

And giving yourself permission to let go — for just a little while.

That's what four weeks of Chair Yoga taught me.

And I'm glad I pulled up a chair.

To find more dance, yoga and aerobics classes at the Birmingham Public Library, follow the BPL calendar at https://www.cobpl.org/calendar/

‘Set It Off’ 30 Years Later: INSIDE Cinema Brings the Classic Film to Birmingham Public Library on September 8

2026-08-29T12:52:48.852-05:00

🎬 INSIDE Cinema: Set It Off — 30th Anniversary Screening

What: INSIDE Cinema Screening: Set It Off
Presented by: EPISODE LLC.

When: Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Time: Doors open at 5 p.m.; screening begins at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Birmingham Public Library, Richard Arrington Auditorium, fourth floor
2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203

Admission: Free
Age: 18+
Bonus: Free popcorn

Registration: insidesetoff.eventbrite.com

The screening is made possible by Swank. An optional donation may be added during registration to support INSIDE Cinema.

Ready to celebrate 30 years of Set It Off?

‘Set It Off’ 30 Years Later: INSIDE Cinema Brings the Classic Film to Birmingham Public Library on September 8

Birmingham, Ala. - Thirty years ago, movie audiences were introduced to four unforgettable women whose friendship, struggles and desperation made Set It Off one of the most talked-about films of the 1990s.

Now, Birmingham movie fans have an opportunity to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the acclaimed film together for free on the big screen and in a unique setting.

INSIDE Cinema, a new monthly film series at the Birmingham Public Library, on Tuesday, September 8, will host a special 30th-anniversary screening of Set It Off at 5:30 p.m. at the downtown Birmingham location, 2100 Park Place.

Presented by EPISODE LLC. and supported by the Birmingham Public Library, INSIDE Cinema offers free, lounge-style community film screenings designed to create a cozy and welcoming movie-going experience.

A New Kind of Free Movie Night at the Library

INSIDE Cinema is the brainchild of Timothy Quarshie, curator of The Ensley Childhood Project, a recent exhibition at the Birmingham Public Library that explored the historic Ensley neighborhood through family photographs, archived videos and written narratives.

Quarshie brought that same creative spirit to the idea of creating a community film series inside the library. The result is INSIDE Cinema, a monthly screening series inspired by traditional outdoor movie experiences but brought indoors to create a comfortable, lounge-style atmosphere.

For this screening, the series chose a film that still gives audiences plenty to talk about.

Celebrating 30 Years of Set It Off

Released in 1996, Set It Off stars Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox and Kimberly Elise in her film debut. The movie was directed by F. Gary Gray.

The story follows Frankie, Tisean, Cleo and Stony, four close friends living in Los Angeles who find themselves struggling with financial hardship and personal crises.

Each woman faces circumstances that push her to a breaking point. Frankie loses her job at a bank. Tisean faces the devastating loss of her child to child welfare. Stony struggles with the tragic death of her brother.

Eventually, the women turn to bank robbery as a desperate way to escape their financial circumstances. What follows is a story of friendship, loyalty, desperation and the consequences of choices made when people feel they have run out of options.

Three decades later, Set It Off remains a film that resonates because it is about much more than the bank robberies. At its heart are questions about friendship, survival, poverty, opportunity and the lengths people may go when they believe there is no other way forward.

That makes its 30th anniversary a fitting occasion to bring people together to watch the film… and perhaps see it through a different lens three decades later.

For each screening, the Richard Arrington Auditorium on the fourth floor of the Birmingham Public Library Research Library will be transformed into a cozy theater experience, with free popcorn and free admission.

Come Celebrate a Movie Milestone

The September screening is an opportunity for longtime fans of Set It Off to revisit a memorable film and for a new generation of moviegoers to experience it on the big screen.

There is something special about watching a favorite movie with a room full of people who know the story… or discovering it for the first time alongside a new audience.

Add free admission and free popcorn, and INSIDE Cinema offers another reason to make the Birmingham Public Library a destination for entertainment and community.

Ready to celebrate 30 years of Set It Off?

Thirty years later, Set It Off is still a movie worth talking about. And now, Birmingham has a place to watch it together.

BPL Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton, Country Music Legend and Champion of Books

2026-08-25T16:25:36.044-05:00

BPL Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton, Country Music Legend and Champion of Books

The Birmingham Public Library joins millions around the world in mourning the loss of beloved country music legend, songwriter, actress and philanthropist Dolly Parton, who died Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at age 80.

For generations, Dolly Parton entertained us with songs such as “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” But for those of us in the library world, her legacy goes far beyond music.

Dolly Parton was also one of the world's greatest champions of books, children and literacy.

Her Greatest Hit May Be the Gift of Reading

Perhaps Dolly's greatest contribution to generations of children is Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which she founded in 1995 in honor of her father, Robert Lee Parton, who was unable to read or write and grew into a worldwide literacy movement.

Today, the Imagination Library provides free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth through age 5, regardless of their family's income.

You can visit any Birmingham Public Library location to sign up for Imagination Library.

As of June 2026, the Imagination Library had gifted more than 325 million books to children around the world. Learn more about Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Dolly once described the importance of books this way: “The seeds of these dreams are often found in books and the seeds you help plant in your community can grow across the world.”

A Legacy That Will Keep Reading

Dolly Parton's career stretched across music, television, film, Broadway and business. She earned countless honors and became one of the most recognizable and beloved entertainers in the world.

But her impact will not end with the final song.

Every time a child opens a book that arrived in the mail through the Imagination Library, Dolly's dream continues.

Every time a parent reads to a child, that legacy grows.

And every time a child discovers a new world inside a book, another door opens.

That is a legacy the library world can celebrate.

If you're looking for all things Dolly, BPL locations across Birmingham have plenty to explore. From her music and biography to books about her remarkable life and career, you can browse the Birmingham Public Library and Jefferson County Library catalog by clicking here:

Explore Dolly Parton in the BPL catalog

So today, Birmingham Public Library remembers Dolly Parton not only as the woman who gave us countless hits, but also was a champion of children, literacy and the transformative power of reading.

Rest in peace, Dolly. And thank you for helping generations of children dream more, learn more, care more and be more.

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

Birmingham Public Library Bards & Brews Poetry Grand Slam to Award $1,000 in Cash Prizes September 4

2026-08-21T10:21:59.398-05:00

10 Birmingham area poets compete Sept. 4 for top honors at Birmingham Public Library

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Think you have what it takes to be crowned Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Poetry Grand Slam champion?

Ten of the best poets in metro Birmingham will take the stage Friday, September 4, competing for $1,000 in cash prizes during BPL's Bards & Brews Poetry Grand Slam, the biggest poetry slam of the year.

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Thed Weller will host the Grand Slam, while singer/guitarist Ashley Sankey will provide musical entertainment.

The top three poets will take home a combined $1,000:

First place: $500
Second place: $300
Third place: $200

Poets who want to compete can sign up on-site beginning at 6 p.m. The competition is limited to the first 10 poets who register. There is a $5 entry fee for slam participants. Admission is free to the public, but attendees must be 18 or older.

During a poetry slam, spoken-word poets perform their original work in timed rounds while five volunteer judges from the audience score their performances.

The highest-scoring poets advance through three rounds, with the final round determining the Grand Slam champion. If there is a tie, the poets will face off in a “slam-off” to determine the winner.

Audience participation is encouraged. Cheer for your favorite poets — and, in keeping with the spirited tradition of poetry slams, don't be surprised if the audience boos the judges' scores!

Bards & Brews is sponsored by the Alabama State Council on the Arts. Hosted by Thed Weller, this free event welcomes all voices, from first-time performers to seasoned spoken word artists. Step up, speak out, and discover why Bards & Brews has become one of Birmingham’s most inspiring gatherings for creative expression.

Check out this spotlight from the Birmingham Times (Bards & Brews has gained a reputation as a unifying event for Birmingham's arts community.)

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

Week 3 of Chair Yoga with Coach Tru at BPL: Learning to Stretch, Balance and Let Go

2026-08-20T15:43:05.243-05:00

During August 20 Chair Yoga Class at downtown Birmingham Public Library, "Coach Tru" Jaynea Milhouse led Roy Williams & other participants in stretching and balancing exercises. The final session in the 5-week series is Thursday, August 27, 1-2 p.m.

Week 3 of Chair Yoga with Coach Tru at BPL: Learning to Stretch, Balance and Let Go

By Roy L. Williams
Public Relations Specialist, Birmingham Public Library

Next week, I’m trying something completely new. On Wednesday, Aug. 26, I’ll participate in my first-ever Tai Chi exercise class at Birmingham Public Library’s Pratt City Branch.

I needed a little preparation. So today, Thursday, Aug. 20, I returned to my third class of Birmingham Public Library’s five-week Chair Yoga series with Jaynea “Coach Tru” Milhouse at the downtown Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place. The final class is on August 27.

Today’s class challenged me in ways the first two did not.

The first half felt familiar: gentle stretching, deep breathing and slow, controlled movements.

Then Coach Tru took us somewhere new.

And that's when things got interesting.

Discovery No. 1: Apparently, I Still Can't Touch My Feet

One of today's challenges was something I've struggled with for as long as I can remember: bending over and touching my feet.

I'm 61 years old, 6 feet tall and weigh about 192 pounds. I'm tall and lanky, with long legs and long arms.

You would think those long arms might help.

They don't.

I've never been particularly good at bending over and touching my feet during exercises.

Today, sitting in my chair, I decided to give it another shot.

I stretched.

And stretched.

And stretched some more.

Nope.

My fingers still weren't getting there.

Coach Tru provided exercise straps to help us extend our reach. I grabbed one and tried again.

Still a struggle.

But instead of becoming frustrated, I found myself laughing a little.

This wasn't about whether I could touch my toes. It was about seeing how far I could go without forcing my body beyond what it could safely do.

Discovery No. 2: Balance Is Not My Superpower

Then came the part that really tested me.

Balance.

Coach Tru had us stand behind our chairs and practice balancing on one leg.

For someone who has never counted balance as one of his strengths, this was going to be interesting.

I held onto the chair and lifted my left leg. Then Coach Tru added another challenge: twist the torso and reach one arm toward the ceiling.

Then, if we felt comfortable, try doing it without holding onto the chair.

I tried.

A few seconds later, I lost my balance.

I tried again.

Lost it again.

Then I tried the movement with my right arm.

Same thing.

Meanwhile, the two women participating alongside me seemed to be handling the exercise with considerably less drama.

I finally admitted to Coach Tru:

“Balancing is not my strong suit.”

She smiled.

And then came a lesson that had very little to do with yoga.

Discovery No. 3: Don't Compare Yourself to Anybody Else

Coach Tru reminded me not to compare myself to the other participants.

Be you.

That simple message stuck with me.

It's easy to look around a room and wonder why somebody else can do something you can't. But Coach Tru's point was that Chair Yoga isn't a competition.

It's about understanding where your body is today and working from there. It’s knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and being willing to challenge yourself.

So I closed my eyes and tried again.

I got better.

I still needed to hold onto the chair to keep my balance, but I was able to hold the position longer.

And that was good enough.

Coach Tru reminded us that there's nothing wrong with falling.

Just pick yourself up and try again.

Don't give up.

That may have been the most important exercise of the entire hour.

Discovery No. 4: Balance Isn't Just About Standing on One Leg

What I really enjoyed about today's class was how Coach Tru connected the physical exercises to everyday life.

While we were working on balance, she talked about the importance of finding balance in our lives.

Balance work and home.

Balance responsibilities with time for yourself.

Balance parenting and personal needs.

And perhaps most importantly, find ways to balance your mind when life becomes stressful.

That hit home for me.

I'm entering a difficult period on the calendar. September 11 will mark the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 2001, when my oldest brother, Army Major Dwayne Williams, was killed at the Pentagon.

As my family prepares to mark that anniversary, there are moments when the memories can feel especially heavy. Today's class reminded me that taking care of yourself doesn't mean ignoring those emotions. Sometimes it means giving yourself permission to breathe, pause and take some personal “me time.”

Throughout the class, Coach Tru encouraged us to close our eyes, breathe deeply and clear our minds of distractions. For those moments, there was nowhere else I needed to be.

Nothing else I needed to accomplish.

Just breathe.

Discovery No. 5: Am I Ready for Tai Chi?

Next Wednesday brings my next wellness challenge: Tai Chi.

On Wednesday, August 26 at 10:30 a.m., I'll participate in my first Tai Chi class at Birmingham Public Library's Pratt City Branch.

After today's experience, I feel a little more prepared.

Chair Yoga has taught me that I don't have to be the most flexible person in the room. I don't have to have perfect balance. And I don't have to compare myself with anyone else.

I simply have to show up, listen to my body and keep trying.

That's a pretty good lesson to carry into Tai Chi.

One More Chair Yoga Class

There is still one more week of Coach Tru's five-week Chair Yoga series.

The final class is Thursday, Aug. 27, from 1–2 p.m. at the Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place.

If you've been thinking about trying it but haven't made it yet, I encourage you to give it a shot.

🧘 FREE CHAIR YOGA AT BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY

Relax • Breathe • Stretch • Renew

Location: Birmingham Public Library
2100 Park Place
Birmingham, AL 35203

Time: Final Class is next Thursday, August 27, 1–2 p.m.

Instructor: Jaynea “Coach Tru” Milhouse

Taking on Tai Chi at Pratt City Branch Library: My Next First-Person BPL Wellness Challenge

2026-08-20T12:43:39.768-05:00

Pratt City Branch Library has a weekly Tai Chi class. Central Library has chair yoga on Thursdays through August 27 & North Birmingham Library hosts Slide City Chair Aerobics Wednesday-Friday.

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

I’ve traded my camera for an exercise ball at North Birmingham Regional Library, stretched my way through chair yoga at Central Library (next session with Coach Tru is today at 1 p.m.) and followed the beat through chair aerobics.

Now it’s time to try something new.

Next Wednesday, August 26, I’m stepping into the world of Tai Chi.

I’ll be participating in the Beginner Tai Chi for Seniors class at Pratt City Branch Library from 10:30–11:30 a.m., and I’ll be doing it for more than just the exercise.

I’m kicking off the next installment of my first-person BPL wellness series, where I don’t just tell you about a library program — I actually participate and tell you what it feels like to be on the other side of the program as a patron.

Next Stop: Tai Chi

Pratt City Branch Library introduced its Tai Chi program in June, and the response from patrons has been strong.

Certified instructor Candace “Candy” Shrum leads the class, which introduces beginners to simple, gentle movements in a welcoming environment. No previous Tai Chi experience is necessary, and accommodations can be made for participants with lower mobility.

Tai Chi combines slow, flowing movements with focused breathing and mindfulness. It is often described as “meditation in motion.”

That sounds peaceful.

But here’s the question: Can I actually do it?

That’s what I intend to find out. I’m Going From Observer to Participant

I’ve written about BPL programs from behind the camera and keyboard for years. At 61, I’ve decided it’s time to take my own wellness a little more seriously. I have been trying out some of Birmingham Public Library’s free wellness programs, including chair yoga and chair aerobics.

Those experiences have turned into stories about what it’s really like to walk into a BPL fitness program as someone who may not be an expert, may not know all the moves and may wonder whether he can actually keep up.

I’m writing as a BPL patron who is willing to try something new.

Next Wednesday at Pratt City Branch, I’ll follow Candy’s instructions, attempt the movements and see firsthand what a beginner’s Tai Chi class is really like.

And yes, I expect there may be a few moments when my body and my brain disagree about which direction I’m supposed to be moving.

I want readers who have never tried Tai Chi to be able to see themselves in the experience.

Maybe you’ve thought about trying it but were afraid you wouldn’t know what to do.

Maybe you think Tai Chi is only for people who are already flexible.

Or maybe, like me, you simply want to find another way to keep moving, improve your balance and flexibility and make wellness a regular part of your life.

Come Along With Me

Beginner Tai Chi for Seniors

When: Wednesday, August 26, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Where: Pratt City Branch Library, 509 Dugan Ave., Birmingham, AL 35214
Instructor: Candace “Candy” Shrum, Certified Tai Chi Instructor

The class will also continue on Wednesdays in September.

When I participate next Wednesday, I’ll probably make a few mistakes.

And then I’ll tell you what it was really like.

Stay tuned for my first-person look at Tai Chi at Pratt City Branch Library.

Who knows?

By the end of the class, I may discover that I like Tai Chi after all.

Free Homebuying Basics Workshop Series Kicks Off August 20 at Pratt City Branch Library

2026-08-20T10:42:42.878-05:00

What: Lunch & Learn: Homebuying Basics

When: Thursday, August 20, 2026, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
The workshop will continue on the third Thursday of each month through November. Other dates (all on Thursdays) are September 17, October 22 and November 19.

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

Thinking about buying a home but don't know where to start?

The Pratt City Branch Library is launching Lunch & Learn: Homebuying Basics, a free monthly workshop designed to help participants better understand the homebuying process.

Representatives from Navigate Affordable Housing Partners and the United Way of Central Alabama will lead the four-part workshop series, covering important information and resources to help prospective homebuyers navigate the process. Participants will also receive lunch during each session.

Whether you're just beginning to consider homeownership or want to learn more about what it takes to purchase a home, this workshop is a great opportunity to get informed, ask questions and learn about available resources—all free of charge.

Registration is required. Click below
Register for Lunch & Learn: Homebuying Basics

For more information, contact Saundra Ross, branch manager of Pratt City Branch Library, at (205) 791-4997.

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

Loud at the Library Concert Series: Birmingham Public Library Brings Local Punk Scene Downtown This Friday, Aug. 21

2026-08-18T08:08:19.133-05:00

Loud at the Library Concert Series:

Birmingham Public Library Brings Local Punk Scene Downtown This Friday, Aug. 21

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Birmingham Public Library will turn up the volume on Friday, Aug. 21, with its fourth Loud at the Library Punk Show, featuring three Birmingham bands: Nowhere Squares, Tiffany Tears and SUPERFUND.

The free, all-ages concert will run from 6–8 p.m. this Friday at the downtown Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203.

Event Information

What: Loud at the Library Punk Show
When: Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 | 6–8 p.m.
Where: Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Admission: Free and open to all ages

Featured Artists

Nowhere Squares — Birmingham garage-punk band known for its fast-paced music and energetic live performances.

Tiffany Tears — Birmingham darkwave and goth project blending post-punk influences, electronic beats, synthesizers and powerful vocals.

SUPERFUND — Birmingham punk/riot grrrl-inspired band combining alternative rock, post-punk and sludge-metal influences.

Media Opportunity

Media are invited to cover the concert or arrange preview interviews with participating artists before the show. Loud at the Library is sponsored through a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts awarded to the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library.

Coming Up

BPL's 2026 Loud at the Library Summer Concert Series concludes with Books, Blues & Barbecue on Friday, Sept. 25, from 6–8 p.m. at the downtown Birmingham Public Library. The concert also will be free and open to the public.

Learn More About the Bands

Want to hear the music before the show or follow the bands online? Visit these official pages:

Nowhere Squares

Bandcamp https://nowheresquares.bandcamp.com/music

Tiffany Tears

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanytearsofficial/
Bandcamp https://tiffanytears.bandcamp.com/track/pray-for-me-baby

SUPERFUND

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superfundallcaps/
Bandcamp: https://superfund.bandcamp.com/album/superfund

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

On the Record with S. Thorne Harper, Author Speaking This Saturday at Birmingham Public Library

2026-08-14T13:57:06.649-05:00

S. Thorne Harper, author of The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery: A conversation with the journalist who spent 15 years investigating Birmingham's forgotten 1927 Tryst murders

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

As a former newspaper reporter, I have always been fascinated by the stories that make journalists stop and dig deeper. So when I learned about S. Thorne “Sam” Harper’s 15-year investigation into a nearly forgotten 1927 Birmingham double murder, I knew there was a story worth telling.

Harper and I have something in common: We spent decades reporting other people's stories before becoming authors. In this conversation, Harper talks about what drew him to the Tryst murders, what his research uncovered about race and justice in 1927 Alabama, and how his experience covering an electric-chair execution in 2000 influenced his decision to revisit Alabama's first electric-chair execution.

I found this conversation particularly compelling because Harper isn't simply telling the story of a nearly 100-year-old murder. He is asking a question that still resonates today: What can the past teach us about justice, race and who gets to have their story remembered?

Q&A with S. Thorne “Sam” Harper

BPL: You spent 15 years researching and writing The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery. What was it about this 1927 Birmingham case that first grabbed your attention?

S. Thorne Harper: In 2003, I covered the electric chair execution of Robert Tarver Jr., an African American man convicted of the robbery and murder of Hugh Kite, a well-liked White man who operated a general store in rural west Georgia. Tarver’s trial was a travesty. In his appeal, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals noted that “evidence against Robert Tarver was of questionable reliability,” that he had “maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings,” that he had “passed a polygraph test when denying that he had killed the victim,” and that “very little evidence made Tarver” a better candidate than a second Black man police had in custody at the time.

Furthermore, even though the court ruled that evidence against Tarver had been of "questionable reliability," the appeals court allowed his execution to proceed. This didn’t feel like blind justice. It felt old. It felt racial.

I went back to the beginning – to Alabama’s first electric chair execution. What I found astonished me. In 1927, the Ku Klux Klan controlled Alabama. Klansmen occupied the governor’s office, the attorney general’s office, the majority of the state’s legislature, and both of the state’s U.S. Senate seats. In 1927, the Heart of Dixie still celebrated Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s birthday as a state holiday.

The majority of Birmingham’s law enforcement were also Klansmen. Alabama was among the last to execute its condemned by means of hanging. Plagued by the occasional decapitation, hanging was considered primitive. It was incompatible with evolving mores, the return of King Cotton, and the state’s modernizing and booming steel industry.

BPL: You have spent more than three decades as a journalist, including years as a crime reporter. What made you decide that this particular story needed to become your first book?

Harper: I wanted to explore whether Alabama has progressed in terms of race and justice. Not very far, as it turns out.

BPL: One of the most fascinating aspects of the case is how quickly the investigation seemed to move once eight Black men were arrested, despite questions surrounding the evidence. What did your research uncover about the investigation and the eventual conviction of Horace DeVaughn?

Harper: Police of the day often used brutal means of interrogation to coax confessions from suspects. DeVaughn was a recently released convict who had returned home to Alabama from a Virginia prison several weeks before the Tryst Murders. He was a Black man and ex-convict who had served time for second degree murder. He was an easy mark.

BPL: The case took place during the Jim Crow era, and the Ku Klux Klan publicly announced that it was joining the investigation. How important is understanding Birmingham's racial and social climate in understanding what happened in this case?

Harper: The Klan essentially ruled Alabama at the time, enforcing racial domination and Christian mores through violence and fear. This included bullwhip-carrying “Morality Patrols” made up of Klansmen who roamed the remote night-time woods outside Birmingham hunting for “trysting” couples. Those caught faced extortion of money and valuables in lieu of being hauled before the justice-of-the-peace where their exploits would be made public, exposing them to public ridicule. At worst, they could be extorted, lashed with the whip, and exposed.

BPL: DeVaughn became the first person executed in Alabama's electric chair, yet even a Birmingham newspaper reportedly questioned whether he was actually the Tryst murderer. After researching this case for 15 years, where do you stand on the question: Was Horace DeVaughn guilty?

Harper: I don’t believe so. Other than his forced confession, no credible evidence emerged clearly supporting his guilt. Early in the murder probe, investigators appeared to suggest that the double-slaying had been the result of a morality patrol shakedown gone wrong. Forty-eight hours later, a sheriff’s spokesman indicated that investigators were on the brink of arresting a White suspect in the case. Suddenly and inexplicably, the sheriff’s investigation inexplicably collapsed. The Klan announced its intervention in the investigation the following day. Horace DeVaughn was in police custody less than 48 hours later.

BPL: You actually witnessed and reported on an Alabama electric-chair execution in 2000, and later appeared in the PBS documentary Race to Execution. How did that experience influence the way you approached researching Alabama's first electric-chair execution in 1927?

Harper: My appearance on Race to Execution focused on Robert Tarver and the overwhelming role race played in his execution. Jury selection in his 1995 trial was blatantly tainted by racial bias. The prosecutor in his case used 13 of his 16 permitted “peremptory strikes” to eliminate 13 of the 14 qualified Black jurors from the jury pool.

Alabama’s criminal appeals court later noted that “despite the fact that Russell County was nearly 40 percent African American, Tarver was tried by a jury composed of 11 Whites and only one Black juror.” The state appeals court also called out Tarver’s court-appointed attorneys’ strategy “to concentrate on preparing for the guilty phase,” seeking merely to keep him out of the electric chair, rather than proving his innocence. Initially, that strategy appeared to have worked.

Tarver’s jury did find him guilty and sentenced him to life imprisonment. The folly of that strategy came crashing down, however, when trial Judge Wayne Johnson overruled the jury’s life-saving sentence, ordering his death in Alabama’s “Yellow Mama.” Making matters even worse, and for reasons that were never explained, Atmore Prison officials did not permit a single Tarver family member to witness his execution.

S. Thorne Harper at the 2026 BPL Local Authors Expo.

BPL: You discovered that the original court transcripts from the Tryst case are missing and presumed lost. As a journalist and researcher, what was it like trying to reconstruct a nearly 100-year-old case when some of the most important records were no longer available?

Harper: Various accounts of the arrest, trial and execution of Horace DeVaughn appeared six of Alabama’s major newspapers: Birmingham Age-Herald, The Birmingham News, The Birmingham Post, The Montgomery Advertiser, The Birmingham Post, and the African American-run Birmingham Reporter.

With the decline of newspapers, particularly local ones, it is unclear how and if the digital age is up to – or even interested in – archiving news stories. What will be the primary source of history? For the time being, I will continue to enjoy getting lost in newspaper archives, researching first drafts of history.

You've covered everything from crime and police abuse to the Iraq War, Somalia and Kosovo. How was researching a 1927 Birmingham murder case different from the kind of journalism you've done throughout your career?

Harper: Everybody has a story. Stories can bind us together and create a shared history. Stories of crime, war, and tragedy can provide insights or inspiration into how we can deal with and overcome tragedy. Stories inform and remind of us who we are and where we come from.

Whether its Kosovo, Somalia, Kuwait, Iraq, Birmingham, Alabama, or Barstow, California, it is the stories that we read and create that bind us together. The best ones persist in questioning who we are and how we can become better. It is stories that mark time and plot our personal geography: our place in the world.

S. Thorne Harper, left, speaking with author Emmett Woods at 2026 Local Authors Expo.

BPL: Your book is called The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery. Without giving away too much, what do you hope readers will discover about Birmingham — and Alabama — beyond the mystery itself?

Harper: Good question. Hatred, ignorance, and violence dwell do not age well. It is good to know where you are from, where you are now, and where you want to be. Birmingham has come a long way. From the execution of Horace DeVaughn and the era of horrific lynchings, to police beatings, and church bombings and the deaths of four young girls, to a city where African American leadership is now as common as biscuits and gravy.

You have spent much of your career reporting other people's stories. What was it like finally becoming the author of your own book?

Harper: It means my little contribution to what I might call an empathy-based history has a chance to exist beyond my earthly years, selfishly providing me a glimpse of immortality: a Dream.

BPL: You're bringing The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery to Birmingham Public Library for a special local author event. What can people expect when they come to your presentation?

Harper: Perhaps useful insight into empathy and its application to history.

BPL: Finally, if someone has never heard of the Tryst murders, why should they come hear this story on Aug. 15?

Harper: In terms of race, they might be surprised at how little Alabama’s criminal justice system has progressed over the past 100 years.

Learn more about S. Thorne Harper's author talk happening this Saturday, August 15, by clicking here.

From Crime Reporter to Author: S. Thorne Harper Speaks at Birmingham Public Library Saturday About Magic City's Forgotten 1927 Murder Mystery

2026-08-14T12:36:55.995-05:00

Former reporter turned author S. Thorne Harper will speak at downtown Birmingham Public Library at 11 a.m. this Saturday, August 15, about his new book, "The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery"

The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery — A Local Author Event

With: S. Thorne "Sam" Harper
When: Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026 | 11 a.m.
Where: Birmingham Public Library, 1st Floor Grand Commons
Address: Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203

Come hear the story behind one of Birmingham's most forgotten murder cases...and the research by a veteran former journalist that dived into uncovering it nearly a century later.

The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery explores a nearly century-old Birmingham case that led to Alabama's first electric-chair execution

Some stories refuse to stay buried.

For S. Thorne "Sam" Harper, one of those stories is a nearly forgotten 1927 Birmingham double murder that captivated newspapers across the country and ultimately led to Alabama's first electric-chair execution.

Harper, a veteran journalist whose career has taken him from crime reporting in Los Angeles to the battlefields of Iraq, spent 15 years researching and writing his first book, The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery: The True Story Behind Alabama's First Electric Chair Execution.

He will bring that story to Birmingham Public Library on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 11 a.m. for a special local author event in the Arrington Auditorium.

The case raises a question that still has no easy answer nearly 100 years later: Was justice actually done?

A Murder Mystery That Shocked Birmingham

In 1927, Birmingham's "Tryst Murders" became a national media sensation.

A Southern Railway official and a woman—both married, but not to each other—were found dead in a car after being shot in the head on a cold January night in a wooded area outside Birmingham.

Investigators disagreed over whether the murders were the result of jealousy, robbery or something else.

Then the investigation took a dramatic turn.

The Ku Klux Klan publicly announced that it was joining the investigation. Within days, eight Black men were arrested.

Horace DeVaughn, a Black man and former convict, eventually confessed to the murders. His confession contained inconsistencies, and his trial lasted only one day.

DeVaughn was convicted and executed less than three months after his arrest.

He became the first person to die in Alabama's electric chair.

Harper's research raises serious questions about the evidence used to convict him.

What Started Harper Down This Road?

Harper's interest in Alabama's history of capital punishment grew from his own experience as a journalist.

In 2000, he witnessed and reported on the execution of Robert Tarver Jr., an African American man convicted of murder. Harper later appeared in the PBS documentary Race to Execution, which examined Tarver's case and the role of race in capital punishment.

That experience prompted Harper to look further back. "I went back to the beginning—to Alabama's first electric chair execution," he said.

What he found led to 15 years of research. Harper discovered a case in which racial politics, the criminal justice system, the Klan and questionable evidence all intersected.

"I wanted to explore whether Alabama has progressed in terms of race and justice," Harper said. "Not very far, as it turns out."

Who Was Horace DeVaughn?

One of the central questions in Harper's book is whether DeVaughn was actually guilty.

After researching the case for 15 years, Harper has reached his own conclusion.

"I don't believe so," he said.

Harper said that aside from DeVaughn's confession, he found no credible evidence clearly establishing his guilt.

His research also revealed that investigators initially appeared to be looking at other possibilities before the investigation abruptly shifted toward DeVaughn.

The Klan's involvement added another troubling dimension to the case.

Harper describes a Birmingham and Alabama in which the Klan wielded considerable political and social influence and used intimidation and violence to enforce racial and social norms.

Understanding that environment, Harper says, is essential to understanding what happened to DeVaughn.

Reconstructing a Case With Missing Records

Harper faced another challenge while researching the book: the original court transcripts from the case are missing and presumed lost.

Instead, he turned to newspaper archives.

Accounts of DeVaughn's arrest, trial and execution appeared in several Alabama newspapers, including The Birmingham Age-Herald, The Birmingham News, The Birmingham Post, The Montgomery Advertiser and the African American-run Birmingham Reporter.

For Harper, those old newspapers represent something much bigger than historical documents.

He calls them "first drafts of history."

The disappearance of local newspapers and the uncertainty surrounding the long-term preservation of digital news archives concerns him.

"What will be the primary source of history?" Harper asks.

From Birmingham to Iraq—and Back Again

Harper's journalism career has taken him far beyond Alabama.

He began as a crime reporter in Southern California before returning to his Alabama roots and working for the Montgomery Advertiser.

He later earned a master's degree in journalism from the University of Iowa.

In 2004, while working for the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, Harper became one of the original embedded reporters covering the Iraq War. Traveling with the U.S. Army's 3rd Brigade Infantry, his dispatches and photographs appeared in newspapers across the United States and internationally.

His work earned a Knight Ridder Special Citation Award for Excellence.

He also reported from Somalia and Kosovo and produced historical research and scripts for Alabama Public Television's Discovering Alabama.

Yet after decades of journalism, it was an almost 100-year-old Birmingham murder case that became his first book.

Why This Story Still Matters

Harper believes stories have the power to connect generations.

"Everybody has a story," he said. "Stories can bind us together and create a shared history."

That idea is at the heart of The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery.

The book isn't simply about who committed a 1927 double murder.

It is about the people involved, the institutions that investigated the case, the racial realities of Jim Crow-era Birmingham and the consequences when a justice system fails to get the truth right.

Harper also believes the story shows how far Birmingham has come.

From the era of lynchings, segregation, police violence and church bombings to today's Birmingham, he says the city has undergone enormous change.

But remembering where we came from remains important.

From Reporter to Author

After spending more than three decades telling other people's stories, what does it feel like for Harper to finally become an author? His answer is surprisingly personal.

"It means my little contribution to what I might call an empathy-based history has a chance to exist beyond my earthly years," Harper said.

That may be the best reason for readers to hear Harper tell this story.

He isn't simply bringing an old murder case back to life.

He's asking us to look at the past with empathy ... and consider what it can teach us about the present.

Hear the Story at Birmingham Public Library

Harper will discuss The Alabama Tryst Murder Mystery and the research behind the book during a special local author event at the Birmingham Public Library this Saturday, August 15, at 11 a.m.

If you've never heard of the Tryst murders, Harper believes the story is worth hearing because it raises uncomfortable questions about race and justice that remain relevant today.

To learn more about Harper's book read his more in-depth Q&A with fellow former journalist Roy L. Williams, PR specialist for the Birmingham Public Library.

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

Workout Thursday at Birmingham Public Library: A First-Person Experience of Chair Yoga & Chair Aerobics

2026-08-14T12:04:04.625-05:00

BPL PR Specialist Roy Williams was BPL Patron Roy on Thursday, August 13, participating in the Slide City Chair Aerobics class at North Birmingham Regional Library at 9:30 a.m., then Jaynea "Coach Tru" Milhouse's Chair Yoga class at downtown Central Library at 1 p.m.

Workout Thursday at Birmingham Public Library: A First-Person Experience

Two very different workouts. One very busy Thursday.

By Roy L. Williams
Public Relations Specialist, Birmingham Public Library

If you want to get in shape—or simply find a way to relax—Thursday was the day to do it at Birmingham Public Library.

I took full advantage of it.

My Thursday began at 9:30 a.m. at North Birmingham Regional Library, where I joined about 40 other participants for my second experience with the popular Slide City Chair Aerobics class.

It was intense.

Four hours later, at 1 p.m., I was sitting in a chair again—but this time, I was slowing down instead of speeding up.

I joined Week 3 of Jaynea "Coach Tru" Milhouse's five-week Chair Yoga Series at the downtown Birmingham Public Library.

After the morning workout, the Chair Yoga class came at exactly the right time.

I needed to chill.

And what a contrast it was.

Over 40 people, mostly seniors between ages and 60 and 90, participated in Slide City Chair Aerobics.

9:30 a.m.: Let's Get Moving

My day started at North Birmingham Regional Library with Slide City Chair Aerobics.

After months of photographing and recording the popular program—which regularly attracts nearly 50 participants three mornings a week—I decided in July to finally put down my camera and join the class.

I wrote about that first experience in my blog, "A First-Person Look at Slide City Chair Aerobics at North Birmingham Regional Library."

This time, however, the class was led by Karnecia Williams, North Birmingham Regional Library's branch manager.

And let me tell you: Instructor Karnecia is all business.

After a few short stretching exercises, she launched us into an intense 25-minute workout.

We kicked.

We punched.

We moved our arms.

We stood up and exercised beside and behind our chairs.

And we kept moving.

90-year-old Alice Huggins, chair aerobics participant.

The class was made up primarily of older adults, ranging from people in their 60s to 90-year-old Alice Huggins, who once again showed that age is no excuse for sitting still.

As for me?

I got tired.

Quickly.

Karnecia Williams, instructor of the August 13 Slide City Chair Aerobics class.

Discovery No. 1: Karnecia Wasn't Going to Let Me Hide Behind My Camera

Since I'm usually the person taking the photographs, I decided to sneak back into my familiar PR role when I needed a break.

I picked up my camera and started recording a few videos.

Karnecia wasn't having it.

"No cheating, Mr. Roy. You're in the class, not PR guy today," she said with a smile.

I grinned sheepishly.

Then I put the camera down and got back to work.

A few minutes later, I picked it up again.

I thought I could sneak in another video.

I couldn't.

"No break, Mr. Roy!" Karnecia called out.

Back down went the camera.

Back to exercising I went.

At one point, I leaned over toward a woman sitting beside me.

"I'm feeling every bit of my 61 years. I am out of shape," I whispered.

She laughed.

I kept moving.

Discovery No. 2: Chair Aerobics Is No Joke

Karnecia kept the class moving through a series of exercises that worked more than just our arms.

We moved from seated exercises to standing movements, working around the chairs and keeping pace with her instructions.

By the time we reached the wind-down portion, I could feel the workout in my muscles.

When the class ended, my body knew it had done some work.

But my Thursday wasn't over.

Not even close.

10:30 a.m.: Time to Wind Down

After the workout, I joined several other Chair Aerobics participants for an hour-long wind-down crafts class led by Adult Librarian Jacqueline Winston.

It was exactly what I needed.

After 25 minutes of kicking, punching, stretching and moving, I was ready to sit down, relax and let my body recover.

An hour later, I was headed downtown.

It was time for Workout No. 2.

1 p.m.: From Sweat to Serenity

At 1 p.m., I arrived at the downtown Birmingham Public Library for Week 3 of Coach Tru's Chair Yoga series.

I had participated in the class two weeks earlier, so this wasn't my first experience.

That made a difference.

The first time, I didn't know what to expect.

This time, I knew to expect something completely different from what I experienced that morning.

Coach Tru dimmed the lights.

Soft music filled the room.

She encouraged us to close our eyes, clear our minds and focus on our breathing.

Take a deep breath.

Let it out.

Forget the distractions.

Be present.

After the morning's high-energy workout, it felt almost like pressing a reset button.

Jaynea "Coach Tru" Milhouse is teaching chair yoga at Central Library downtown from 1-2 p.m. every Thursday through Aug. 27. BPL's Roy Williams is writing a first-person perspective of the class series.

Discovery No. 3: Sometimes Your Body Needs to Slow Down

For nearly an hour, I stretched my arms and legs while listening to Coach Tru's calm instructions.

The movements were slow and deliberate.

At first, some of my muscles hurt as I stretched them.

But gradually, it became easier.

Coach Tru continually reminded us to breathe, relax and not push our bodies beyond what felt safe.

And once again, I found myself surprised by how much I enjoyed the experience.

It was exercise.

But it didn't feel like the kind of exercise that leaves you exhausted.

It felt restorative.

Two Workouts. Two Completely Different Experiences.

That's what struck me most about Thursday.

At 9:30 a.m., I was punching, kicking, standing, sitting and trying to keep up with Karnecia Williams.

At 1 p.m., I was sitting quietly, breathing deeply and stretching under Coach Tru's direction.

One class had music that kept me moving.

The other had quiet music that helped me slow down.

One left me sweating.

The other left me relaxed.

Yet both had something important in common: They got me moving.

And both reminded me that fitness doesn't have to look the same for everyone.

Discovery No. 4: BPL Wellness Comes in More Than One Form

As Birmingham Public Library's public relations specialist, I spend much of my time behind the camera documenting what happens inside our libraries.

Over the past several months, I've photographed and written about a growing number of BPL wellness programs.

But participating in them has given me a different perspective.

I've learned that wellness isn't simply about working out.

Sometimes it's about challenging yourself.

Sometimes it's about slowing down.

Sometimes it's about meeting people, laughing together and building a community.

And sometimes it's about realizing that at 61, you can still try something you've never done before.

My Thursday Takeaway

By the time I left the library Thursday afternoon, I had experienced two completely different approaches to wellness.

Slide City Chair Aerobics reminded me that I need to keep moving.

Chair Yoga reminded me that I also need to slow down.

I think I need both.

And maybe that's the real lesson.

Taking care of yourself isn't always about pushing harder.

Sometimes it's about knowing when to push—and knowing when to breathe.

For me, Thursday was a reminder that Birmingham Public Library isn't just giving people places to read, learn and connect.

We're also giving people opportunities to move, relax and take better care of themselves.

And on this particular Thursday, I got to experience both sides.

My body felt the morning workout.

My mind appreciated the afternoon one.

And I'm already looking forward to the next class.

FREE BPL WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Slide City Chair Aerobics

North Birmingham Regional Library

A free, low-impact chair-based workout featuring music, movement and exercises designed to help participants stay active.

Chair Yoga with Coach Tru

Birmingham Public Library
2100 Park Place
Birmingham, AL 35203

Thursdays | 1–2 p.m.

Remaining dates: Aug. 20 and Aug. 27

Led by Jaynea "Coach Tru" Milhouse, certified Hatha yoga instructor, licensed therapist, certified Vipassana meditation teacher and life coach.

Cost: Free

Who should attend: Adults of all ages and ability levels. No previous yoga experience is necessary.

Inside Birmingham Public Library's Chair Yoga Class: A First-Person Experience

- July 30, 2026

https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/07/inside-birmingham-public-librarys-chair.html

Learn More

📖 Meet Coach Tru: Read our Wellness Spotlight Q&A to learn about her journey into yoga, mindfulness and mental wellness. Link https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/07/chair-yoga-at-birmingham-public-library.html

📖 Earlier Story: Read Get Fit at BPL: Our Next Step Is Chair Yoga for a preview of the series. Link

https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/07/get-fit-at-bpl-our-next-step-is-chair.html

📖 Related Story: Read my first-person experience inside Birmingham Public Library's popular Slide City Chair Aerobics class at North Birmingham Regional Library

https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/07/chair-yoga-at-birmingham-public-library.html

For more information about Birmingham Public Library programs and events, visit www.cobpl.org/calendar.

Bards & Brews Returns to Downtown Birmingham Public Library This Friday, August 14

2026-08-12T08:04:23.388-05:00

Brews Returns to Downtown Birmingham Public Library This Friday, August 14

What: Bards & Brews Open Mic
When: Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Where: Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203

🎤 Join us for an evening of poetry, connection, and creativity this Friday, August 14, for Bards & Brews, the Birmingham Public Library (BPL)’s popular free monthly spoken word poetry/craft beer event. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for an open mic at the downtown Birmingham Public Library, 2100 Park Place.

Come show off your talents on the mic as poetry will begin to flow at 6:30 p.m. Ava Walker will be our featured poet. You must be 18 or older to enter and participate, and 21 or older to drink free beer samples.

Check out this spotlight from the Birmingham Times (Bards & Brews has gained a reputation as a unifying event for Birmingham's arts community.)

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