Birmingham Public Library Blog

2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: History, Innovation and Discovery Await at Central Library

2026-06-11T14:36:12.639-05:00

2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: Central Library

Birmingham, Ala. - This summer, the Birmingham Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to dig deeper into stories, creativity and discovery through its 2026 Summer Reading Program. With more than 200 free programs taking place at library locations across the city throughout June and July, there are countless opportunities to learn, explore and connect with others in the community.

Each Birmingham Public Library location offers its own unique blend of activities, and the Central Library in downtown Birmingham serves as a hub for lifelong learning, local history, entrepreneurship, wellness and family-friendly programs. From a youth digital literacy camp and small business workshops to author talks, historical presentations, live theater and bluegrass music, Central Library's Summer Reading lineup offers something for every age and interest.

Today's spotlight focuses on Birmingham Public Library's downtown flagship location.

Central Library

Address: 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205) 226-3600

Summer Reading Prize Drawing

Visitors to Central Library can enter a special Summer Reading prize drawing throughout the summer.

How It Works:

Each time a patron checks out materials at Central Library, they may enter the drawing by submitting their name and phone number at the Circulation Desk.

Prizes

Kids bicycle
Mini karaoke machine
JBL earbuds

Drawing Dates

The drawing began June 8 and continues through July 31, the final day of Summer Reading. Patrons may enter once per checkout visit each day.

Digital Literacy Summer Workshop and Mini Summer Camp

Monday, June 22-Thursdy, June 25 | 9 a.m.-Noon

Central Library Youth Services will host a free four-day Digital Literacy Summer Workshop for students in grades 3-8. Led by Ishaan Jain, a sophomore at Indian Springs School, the workshop helps students transition from technology consumers to digital creators.

Participants will explore topics including:

3D design and 3D printing
Coding and game logic
Digital architecture and systems thinking
Artificial intelligence and prompt engineering
Problem-solving through technology

Using hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations, students will learn how the apps, games and digital tools they use every day are created and operated.

Space is limited, and participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Featured Summer Reading Programs Happening at the Central Library

The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story

Tuesday, June 9, 5:30 p.m.. First Floor

Birmingham author and communications professional Bettina Byrd-Giles explores the legacy of her grandmother, educator Audrey Bacon Byrd, and the continuing influence of educator and leader Booker T. Washington on generations of African Americans.

Let's Talk About Medicare: Questions and Answers

June 11 and July 9|Noon Virtual via Facebook Live on Birmingham Public Library Facebook page

This informative session helps participants better understand Medicare benefits, enrollment options and common questions about coverage.

AMA IRL: Ask an Archivist

Saturday, June 13 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Arrington Auditorium 4^th Floor BPL Research Library

Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes in an archives department? Visitors can meet library archivists, ask questions and learn about preserving Birmingham’s history and cultural heritage.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre Presents “The Jungle Book”

Saturday, June 20 and Saturday, July 25 | 10:30 a.m.

Join Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera and a cast of unforgettable jungle characters as Birmingham Children's Theatre brings Rudyard Kipling's classic stories to life through an engaging live performance suitable for all ages.

Profitable Pro Business Growth Workshop

Tuesday, June 23 and Tuesday, July 28, 5:30 p.m.

Entrepreneurs, small business owners and aspiring business leaders can gain practical strategies for growing and strengthening their businesses through this free workshop series led by Gilberto Herrera.

Moretti and the Marble

Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., 4th Floor Arrington Auditorium in BPL Research Library

Author Ruth Beaumont Cook discusses the fascinating story of sculptor Giuseppe Moretti, creator of Birmingham’s iconic Vulcan statue, and his connection to Alabama’s marble industry.

From Tea to Treason: How Ordinary Colonists Were Drawn into Extraordinary Rebellion

Saturday, June 27, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., First Floor

Presented by historian Terri Hicks in partnership with the Birmingham Genealogical Society and America250AL, this program explores the people and events that helped spark the American Revolution as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.

The Self-Care Mastermind

Tuesday, July 7, 5:30 p.m., First Floor

This monthly wellness-focused program, led by instructor C.J. Wade, offers practical strategies for self-care, healthy living and personal growth.

Bluegrass Jam

Saturday, July 18| 2-4 p.m., First Floor Grand Commons

Grab a seat, tap your toes and enjoy an afternoon filled with the timeless sounds of bluegrass, old-time string music and Appalachian traditions during a special Loud at the Library performance featuring The Yellow Dandies. Whether you're a longtime bluegrass enthusiast or simply curious about one of America's most enduring musical traditions, this free community jam offers an opportunity to experience lively fiddle tunes, spirited picking and the rich storytelling that has made bluegrass a beloved part of Southern culture.

Musicians and music lovers alike are invited to gather in Central Library's Grand Commons for an afternoon of unforgettable melodies, community fellowship and foot-stomping fun. Come discover why bluegrass music continues to connect generations through its blend of musicianship, tradition and heart.

Discover Something New This Summer

Whether you're exploring Birmingham history, learning new technology skills, starting a business, attending a live theater performance or simply entering to win a prize, Central Library offers a wide range of opportunities to learn, create and connect during Summer Reading 2026. For more information about Summer Reading programs at Central Library, call (205) 226-3600 or visit 2100 Park Place in downtown Birmingham.

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

2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: Grow, Create and Explore at Inglenook Branch Library

2026-06-10T15:23:11.765-05:00

2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: Grow, Create and Explore at Inglenook Branch Library

Grow, create and explore over 200 Summer Reading programs happening during June and July at the Birmingham Public Library. As part of our 2026 Summer Reading Spotlight series, we're highlighting the exciting opportunities available at each location.

Today we are focusing on events taking place at Inglenook Branch Library, which is hosting bi-weekly “Grow with Inglenook” programs through August that bring the community together through gardening, learning and hands-on crafts for all ages.

Inglenook Branch Library

Address: 4100 40th Terrace North, Birmingham, AL 35217
Phone: (205) 849-8739

Here is a closer look at Summer Reading Programs at Inglenook.

Unearth a Storytime

Tuesday, June 16 | 10 a.m.

Young readers and their caregivers are invited to enjoy an interactive story time filled with engaging books, songs and activities designed to spark imagination and build early literacy skills.

Adult Summer Reading: Color and Connect

June 10-12 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Adults can take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with this relaxing program that combines creativity, mindfulness and social connection. Participants are encouraged to unwind, color and connect with others in a welcoming environment.

Dinosaurs, Reactions and Explosions, Oh My!

Wednesday, June 10 | 1-2 p.m.

Get ready for an afternoon of scientific discovery as exciting experiments, fascinating reactions and prehistoric fun come together in this high-energy STEM program.

Grow with Inglenook

Bi-Weekly Sessions | 3-4 p.m.

One of Inglenook Branch's signature programs, Grow with Inglenook brings community members together through gardening, learning and hands-on experiences. Participants can explore topics related to plants, food access and sustainable growing practices while building connections with fellow gardeners and neighbors.

Upcoming sessions include:

June 12
June 26
July 10
July 24
August 7

Crafty Thursday

June 11 and July 9 | 1-2 p.m.

Unleash your creativity during Crafty Thursday. Participants can enjoy hands-on projects while exploring new artistic techniques and creating something unique to take home.

Adventure Reel!

Friday, June 12 | Noon-1 p.m.

Grab some popcorn and settle in for an entertaining movie experience that promises fun and adventure for attendees.

Father’s Day Biscuits-n-Gravy Brunch

Thursday, June 18| 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Fathers, join Inglenook Branch for coffee, biscuits–n-gravy as we celebrate all of the fathers in our community!

McWane Science Center

Wednesday, July 8 | 10-11 a.m.

Experience the excitement of hands-on science learning as educators from McWane Science Center bring interactive activities and demonstrations to the library.

Unearth a Tote Bag

Tuesday, July 14 | 10 a.m.

Adults are invited to personalize and decorate their own tote bag while expressing their creativity through this fun, hands-on craft program.

Crochet 101

July 1 and July 17 | 10 a.m.-Noon

Interested in learning a new hobby? Crochet 101 introduces participants to the basics of crochet in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Beginners are encouraged to attend.

Zumba

Thursday, July 23 | 10 a.m.

Get moving and have fun during this energetic Zumba class that combines fitness and dance for a workout that's both enjoyable and effective.

Unearth a Reel Story!

Friday, July 10 | Noon-1 p.m.

Enjoy another movie-themed afternoon as stories come to life on the screen in this family-friendly summer program.

Inglenook Library’s 47^th Birthday Party

Thursday, July 17| 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Join Inglenook Branch for pizza and cake as we celebrate 47 years of our library’s commitment to putting the Inglenook Community First!

Join the Summer Fun at Inglenook Branch Library

Whether you're interested in gardening, science, crafting, movies, fitness, story times or learning a new skill like crochet, Inglenook Branch Library has something to offer this summer. From growing plants and building community connections to exploring science and expressing creativity, there's plenty to discover throughout the season.

These programs are just a sample of the many free activities available through Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program.

Stay tuned as our Summer Reading Spotlight series continues to showcase the unique programs and experiences available at Birmingham Public Library locations across the city.

For more information about Summer Reading programs at Inglenook Branch Library, stop by 4100 40th Terrace North or call (205) 849-8739.

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

2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: Discover Fun, Fitness and Creativity at West End Branch Library

2026-06-10T12:02:53.138-05:00

Summer is in full swing at the Birmingham Public Library, and that means exciting programs, engaging activities and opportunities for lifelong learning are happening across the city.

Throughout June and July, 17 Birmingham Public Library locations will host more than 200 free Summer Reading programs for children, teens, adults and seniors. From story times and STEM adventures to fitness classes, technology workshops and cultural programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Registration for Summer Reading is available at any Birmingham Public Library location.

As part of our 2026 Summer Reading Spotlight series, we're highlighting the unique programs offered at each branch. Today, we're taking a closer look at West End Branch Library, where visitors can stay active, learn new skills, unleash their creativity and connect with their community through a variety of engaging programs this summer.

West End Branch Library

Address: 1328 Tuscaloosa Ave. SW, Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone: (205) 226-4089

Mary's Chair Aerobics

Mondays and Thursdays throughout June and July (June 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30| 10-11 a.m.

Stay active and healthy this summer with Mary's Chair Aerobics. Designed with seniors and adults in mind, these low-impact exercise sessions provide a fun and accessible way to improve flexibility, strength and overall wellness.

Senior Claws

Tuesdays in June and July| 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Seniors are invited to gather for fellowship, fun and engaging activities during Senior Claws. This ongoing program offers opportunities to socialize, learn and enjoy meaningful connections with others in the community.

T-Shirt and Tote Bag Design Workshop

Wednesday, June 10 | 10 a.m. – Noon

Learn how to create custom apparel and accessories using Cricut software, cutting machines and heat presses. Participants will design and produce their own personalized T-shirt or tote bag while gaining hands-on experience with creative technology. Space is limited. Ages 15 and older. Registration is required.

Dynamic Education Adventures with The Science Lady

Tuesday, June 16 | 10-11 a.m.

Dinosaurs, Reactions, Explosions, Oh My!

Science comes alive with this interactive presentation from The Science Lady. Young learners and families will enjoy exciting demonstrations and hands-on activities that make STEM education both fun and memorable.

Lunch and Learn: Plan Your Own Life Celebration

Thursday, June 18 | 11 a.m.-Noon

This informative Lunch and Learn session hosted by Dignity Memorial provides practical guidance on planning a meaningful life celebration. Participants will gain valuable information while engaging in thoughtful discussion in a welcoming environment.

Get Rhythm!

Monday, June 22 | 11 a.m.-Noon

Feel the beat and join internationally known drumming facilitator John Scalici, founder of Get Rhythm, for an interactive drum circle experience. Participants of all ages are invited to explore rhythm, music and community through this engaging hands-on program. No musical experience is necessary—just bring your heartbeat.

Hoops for Fitness

Tuesday, June 23 | 11 a.m.-Noon

Get moving with Robbie Lewis, also known as The Hoop Lady, as she shares her incredible hula-hooping talents and fitness techniques. This high-energy program combines exercise, entertainment and inspiration while showcasing Guinness World Record-level hooping skills.

DIY: Paracord Bracelet Workshop

Wednesday, June 24 | 1-3 p.m.

Participants will create their own colorful paracord bracelets during this hands-on crafting workshop. All materials will be provided, making it easy for beginners and experienced crafters alike to join in the fun.

Bingo

Thursday, June 25 | 11 a.m.-Noon

Enjoy a classic game of Bingo with friends and neighbors. Prizes will be given to winners. Mary's Chair Aerobics

Monday, July 27 | 10-11 a.m.

Keep your fitness journey going all summer long with Mary's Chair Aerobics. This fun, low-impact exercise program helps participants improve strength, flexibility and overall well-being in a welcoming and supportive environment.

West End Crocheters

Wednesday, July 29 | 10 a.m.-Noon

Whether you're picking up a crochet hook for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, West End Crocheters offers a friendly space to learn, create and connect with fellow crafters while working on fun projects together.

Join the Summer Fun at West End

Whether you're interested in fitness, science, arts and crafts, music, technology or lifelong learning, West End Branch Library has something to offer this summer. From chair aerobics and drumming circles to science adventures, crafting workshops and community gatherings, there's no shortage of opportunities to learn, create and connect.

These programs are just a small sample of the many free activities available through Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program.

Stay tuned as our Summer Reading Spotlight series continues to highlight the exciting programs taking place at Birmingham Public Library locations across the city.

For more information about Summer Reading programs at West End Branch Library, stop by 1328 Tuscaloosa Ave. SW or call (205) 226-4089.

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

2026 Summer Reading Has Kicked Off at the Birmingham Public Library

2026-06-09T12:48:19.576-05:00

Hundreds of Free Summer Reading Programs & Activities for Patrons of All Ages Underway at BPL

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Summer Reading 2026 is officially underway at the Birmingham Public Library (BPL), bringing hundreds of free programs, workshops, performances and activities to library locations across the city throughout June and July.

This year's theme, "Unearth a Story," invites participants of all ages to discover new ideas, learn new skills and explore the world around them. While reading remains at the heart of the program, Summer Reading also features live animals, science demonstrations, magic shows, theater workshops, fitness classes, arts and crafts, technology programs, author talks and cultural experiences.

Families can register for Summer Reading at any BPL location and enjoy a summer filled with creativity, learning and fun. All Summer Reading programs are free and open to the public.

Also on Monday, June 8, the Central Library kicked off a Summer Reading Drawing in which winners will be awarded a kid’s bicycle, mini- karaoke machine, and JBL Ear Buds. Entries will be collected at the Circulation Desk on the First Floor of Central Library.

For a complete list of Summer Reading events and registration information, visit the Birmingham Public Library calendar at www.cobpl.org/calendar or stop by any BPL location.

Here are just a few of the exciting programs taking place at many libraries across Birmingham throughout June.

Free Youth Summer Camp

The Central Library, 2100 Park Place in downtown Birmingham, is hosting a free Youth Mini Summer Camp from Monday, June 22 to Friday, June 25 on a first-come, first-served basis in the Teen Lab on the Second Floor.

Animals, Nature and Outdoor Discovery

Grow with Inglenook

June and July all summer long, 3-4 p.m. | Inglenook Branch Library

This community-centered gardening program provides hands-on experiences while promoting food access, environmental awareness and neighborhood connections.

Zoo to You: Amazing Alabama Animals

Monday, June 15, 10 a.m.– 11 a.m. | Pratt City Branch Library

Alabama is often called America's Amazon because of its incredible biodiversity. Participants will meet live ambassador animals and learn how native wildlife uses special adaptations to survive in the wild.

Suni-Bear Farms

Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Springville Road Regional Library

Meet local farmers and their traveling goat, Jingles, while learning about agriculture, animal care and farm life. Registration is required.

Foxhound Bee Company

Wednesday, June 24, 10 a.m. -11 a.m. | Springville Road Regional Library

See live bees safely housed in an observation hive and discover why pollinators play such an important role in Alabama's ecosystem.

African Fabric Home Decor Craft *Registration Required

Thursday, June 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.| North Birmingham Regional Library

Back by popular demand: Infuse your living space with the warmth and vibrancy of creating an extraordinary piece of wall art out of fabric. Please call to sign up at (205) 226-4025 or come in person and sign up at the North Birmingham Library.

Slide City Chair Aerobics

Every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday in June and July, 9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m., North Birmingham Regional Library

Led by North Birmingham Library’s Samantha Gaston, this free class focuses on the importance of health & wellness, specifically geared towards adults and seniors. Participants exercise while listening to a variety of engaging music.

Science, STEAM and Discovery

Dinosaurs, Reactions & Explosions with The Science Lady

Multiple dates and library locations

Young scientists can explore fossils, chemistry, dinosaurs and exciting experiments through high-energy STEM programs held throughout the library system.

Unearth a Story With McWane Science Center

June 18, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Powderly Branch Library

Hands-on science demonstrations and activities bring learning to life through this partnership with McWane Science Center.

Lunch and Learn: Plan Your Own Life Celebration

Thursday, June 18, 11 a.m. -12 p.m.| West End Branch Library

Your life. Your legacy. Join West End Branch for a free in-person informational seminar and find out how to protect your loved ones by planning your life celebration in advance.

Magic, Entertainment and Family Fun

Magic, Mayhem & Mind-Blowing Fun with Magician Brandon Herring

June 16 | Wylam Branch Library

Magician Brandon Herring combines humor, audience participation and astonishing illusions in a family-friendly performance filled with wonder and discovery.

Professor Whizzpop's Monster Magic Show

June 17 | Southside Branch Library

Expect magical surprises, comedy and audience participation in this entertaining show for all ages.

Family Night: Jurassic Bark!

June 16 | Avondale Regional Library

Michelle's Magical Poodles take center stage in an interactive family performance featuring amazing dog tricks, educational moments and plenty of dinosaur-themed fun.

Storytimes and Early Literacy

Once Upon a Thursday

June 11 | North Birmingham Regional Branch Library

Miss Pamela leads a storytelling adventure featuring stories, songs and themed crafts that bring books to life.

Time for Tales with Ms. Cas

June 11 | Avondale Regional Branch Library

Preschool and elementary-age children can enjoy an action-packed storytime filled with reading, movement and fun.

Storytime with Ms. Mollie

June 17 | Springville Road Regional Library

Children will DINO-rock and DINO-roll while exploring dinosaur-themed stories, music and activities.

Stories & Stretches: Yoga Storytime

June 22 | East Ensley Branch Library

Children will enjoy meaningful stories followed by a fun and interactive yoga session that encourages movement and participation.

Theater, Performance and Creative Expression

Red Mountain Theatre: Unearth a Story

June 17 and June 24 | Powderly Branch Library

Professional teaching artists guide participants through storytelling, creativity and theatrical performance.

Little Legends on Stage!

June 23 | Wylam Branch Library

Young performers will explore acting, movement and creative storytelling through this interactive theater workshop.

Birmingham Children's Theatre Presents "The Jungle Book"

June 20-July 25 | Multiple BPL Locations

Join Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera and a host of unforgettable jungle characters in this free live adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic stories. Performances will be held at Central, Five Points West, Springville Road and Avondale libraries.

STEAM Club: LEGO Bird Builders

June 29 | Five Points West Regional Library

Participants combine creativity and engineering skills while designing and constructing LEGO bird projects.

Health, Fitness and Wellness

Mary's Chair Aerobics

West End Branch Library

This popular low-impact fitness class continues every Monday and Thursday throughout June and July.

Chair Yoga with Erin Williams

Five Points West Regional Library

Held twice monthly, these gentle yoga sessions promote flexibility, balance and wellness.

Teen Yoga: Summer Stretch

Smithfield Branch Library

Teens can explore mindfulness, movement and relaxation through beginner-friendly yoga exercises.

Beginner Tai Chi for Seniors

Pratt City Branch Library

Learn simple Tai Chi movements designed to improve balance, flexibility and overall wellness.

Slide City Chair Aerobics

North Birmingham Regional Branch Library

Adults and seniors can participate in chair-based fitness exercises offered Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays each week at 9:30 a.m..

The Morning Lineup

North Birmingham Regional Branch Library

This lively line-dancing program helps participants stay active while learning new dance routines.

Line Dancing with Tracy Williams

Woodlawn Branch Library

Kick up your heels and enjoy a fun-filled session of music, movement and fellowship.

Senior Exercise Classes

Memorial Park and City Gym

Instructor Tracy Williams leads easy-to-follow fitness and line-dancing sessions designed for older adults.

Hoops for Fitness

June 23 | West End Branch Library

The Hoop Lady, Robbie Lewis, presents a high-energy hula-hooping program inspired by her Guinness World Record achievements.

Candle Making Workshops

June 17 | Smithfield Branch Library and Springville Road Regional Library

Participants can learn the art of candle making through hands-on instruction and creative design.

The Fluttering Garden

June 18 | North Birmingham Regional Branch Library

Create a relaxing butterfly-themed canvas painting while exploring artistic expression.

Unearthing a Story: Textile Narratives

June 18 | East Ensley Branch Library

This hands-on workshop invites participants to tell stories through fabric, embroidery and symbolic design.

Strokes of Freedom

June 15 | East Ensley Branch Library

Celebrate Juneteenth through art while reflecting on themes of freedom, resilience and community.

Juneteenth Celebration

Thursday, June 18| Inglenook Branch Library

Paint Your Own "Dino-Mite" Bookends

June 18 | Avondale Regional Library

Teens can create prehistoric-inspired bookends through this hands-on painting workshop.

Tween Scene: Needle Felting

June 23 | Springville Road Regional Library

Tweens will learn the basics of needle felting and create unique wool sculptures.

Crochet, Sewing and Fiber Arts

Yarn & Learn

East Ensley Branch Library

Learn crochet and quilting techniques while connecting with fellow crafters.

Off the Hook Crochet

Smithfield Branch Library

Participants can learn crochet basics and complete projects in a welcoming environment.

Crochet and Knitting 101

June 22 | Inglenook Branch Library

Learn beginning crochet and knitting skills while meeting others who share an interest in fiber arts.

Tween Scene: Beginner Crochet Series

July 9-30 | Springville Road Regional Library

This four-week workshop teaches tweens crochet fundamentals and how to create granny squares.

Sew Right!

East Ensley Branch Library

Participants learn sewing basics and practical skills through hands-on instruction.

Coffee and Conversation: Getting the Most Out of Your Cell Phone

June 22 | Springville Road Regional Library

Seniors can learn smartphone basics, helpful apps and technology tips in a relaxed setting.

Small Business Basics: Profitable Pro Business Growth

Central Library

This free workshop series by instructor Gilberto Herrera helps entrepreneurs strengthen and grow their businesses through practical guidance and expert instruction.

Lunch and Learn: Plan Your Own Life Celebration

June 18 | West End Branch Library

Participants can explore important end-of-life planning topics in a welcoming environment.

Authors, Books and History

Virtual Author Talk Watch Party with Matt Dinniman

June 11 | Springville Road Regional Library

Fans of the bestselling Dungeon Crawler Carl series can gather to watch a virtual presentation by New York Times bestselling author Matt Dinniman.

Ruth Beaumont Cook: "Moretti and the Marble"

June 27 | Central Library

The Alabama author discusses her latest book exploring the life and legacy of sculptor Giuseppe Moretti, creator of Birmingham's iconic Vulcan statue.

From Tea to Treason

June 27 | Central Library

Historian Terri Hicks examines the events and ordinary people who helped spark the American Revolution.

Art and History Exhibitions

Visitors can also explore several exhibitions at Central Library throughout the summer:

"Fragments" featuring paintings by artist Bethany Moody
"A Photobook Gallery: The Ensley Childhood Project"
"Among the Pines" featuring pine-needle basketry by Kathy Nelson

Make This Your Summer to Explore

Whether you're meeting live animals, learning a new craft, attending a magic show, exploring science, watching live theater, discovering local history or simply connecting with others in your community, Birmingham Public Library offers countless opportunities to learn, create and have fun this summer. Check out our calendar to learn more at www.cobpl.org/calendar.

BPL is spotlighting each of our locations holding Summer Reading programs. The list below will be updated as they are posted.

Wylam Branch Library Summer Reading Spotlight

Inglenook Branch Library Summer Reading Spotlight

Central Library Summer Reading Spotlight

West End Branch Library Summer Reading Spotlight

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

Exhibition of Longleaf Pine Needle Basketry To Open at BPL on June 12

2026-06-09T11:12:31.880-05:00

Kathy Nelson, Large Longleaf Pine Needle Vase with Blue Waxed Thread

Starting on Friday, June 12, the skill and innovation of artist Kathy Nelson will be on display at the Birmingham Public Library. Among the Pines is an exhibition of baskets that Nelson created from longleaf pine needles. It is the latest exhibition in the Sculpture Gallery at the Central Library.

Nelson has been a basket-maker since 2012. Nelson says that “growing up among the pines instilled in me my love of pines, the fragrance and colors.”

Nelson collects needles from longleaf pine trees growing on her property in Shelby County. She then sorts, dries, soaks, and finally coils the needles into baskets, using artificial sinew to hold the needles together.

Kathy Nelson, Gourd Container with Longleaf Pine Needle Rim and Closure
Kathy Nelson, Longleaf Pine Needle Bowl with Waxed Thread

Pine needle basketry is one of the oldest crafts known, pre-dating even the creation of pottery. It is a tedious, time-consuming process, sometimes requiring up to 15 hours to make a single basket. Despite this, Nelson says that coiling a basket is a relaxing activity.

“Although I am relatively new to pine needle basketry I find it very rewarding to see my finished basket. I appreciate the fact that I am making a useful basket from pine needles that would soon decompose if left on the ground.”

The official state tree of Alabama, the longleaf pine (pinus palustris) is the longest-lived of all Southeastern pine species. It and the many wildlife species that rely on it for survival are endangered. Read more about the longleaf pine on the National Wildlife Federation’s website.

Kathy Nelson collecting needles from longleaf pine trees

Nelson has been a juried artist with the Alabama Craft Guild since 2015. She has featured her baskets at markets throughout Alabama and was the featured artist at Visual Index in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She has even provided baskets for the cabins at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores.

Among the Pines be on view through August 29. It is 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

2026 BPL Summer Reading Spotlight: Where Stories Take the Stage at Wylam Branch Library

2026-06-09T10:56:08.222-05:00

This summer, the Birmingham Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to dig deeper into stories, creativity and discovery through its 2026 Summer Reading Program. With more than 200 free programs taking place at library locations across the city throughout June and July, there are countless opportunities to learn, explore and connect with others in the community.

Each branch offers its own unique mix of activities, and Wylam Branch Library is no exception. From movie mornings and magic shows to theater workshops, book discussions, live music experiences and hands-on art adventures, Wylam's Summer Reading lineup encourages participants to explore new ideas while having fun along the way.

Today's spotlight shines on Wylam Branch Library and the exciting programs planned for children, teens, adults and families throughout the summer.

Wylam Branch Library

Address: 4300 Seventh Ave., Wylam, Birmingham, AL 35224
Phone: (205) 785-0349

Dig into Popcorn and a Movie

Tuesday, June 9 | 10-11 a.m.

We've got the popcorn and movie ready—now all that's missing is you. Bring your family, grab a seat and enjoy a fun-filled movie morning at the library.

Magic, Mayhem & Mind-Blowing Fun with Magician Brandon Herring

Tuesday, June 16 | 9-10 a.m.

Prepare to be amazed as magician Brandon Herring brings an interactive family magic show packed with humor, audience participation and astonishing tricks. From card magic to mind-reading, this entertaining performance sparks imagination and reminds us that every great story is filled with surprises waiting to be discovered.

Wylam Book Club

Wednesday, June 17 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. & Wednesday, July 15| 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Readers are invited to join the Wylam Book Club for lively conversations and thoughtful discussions about the group's Book of the Month. It's a great opportunity to discover new genres, share perspectives and connect with fellow book lovers.

Little Legends on Stage! A Theatre Adventure

Tuesday, June 23 | 10-11 a.m.

Presented by Red Mountain Theatre, this interactive workshop introduces young participants to the exciting world of theater. Through acting, movement and creative expression, students will build confidence, explore storytelling and discover the joy of bringing characters to life.

Big Imagination, Bright Lights! Theatre Fun

Tuesday, June 30 | 10-11 a.m.

The theatrical adventure continues as participants explore creativity, performance and storytelling through engaging activities led by professional teaching artists. Young performers will have the chance to stretch their imaginations and shine in a supportive environment.

Feel the Rhythm: Alabama's Blues Come Alive with the Alabama Blues Project

Tuesday, July 7 | 10-11 a.m.

Discover the rich musical heritage of Alabama through this lively program presented by the Alabama Blues Project. Participants will explore the rhythms, stories and cultural impact of blues music while enjoying an engaging and interactive experience.

Art Adventures at the Library

Tuesday, July 21 | 10-11 a.m.

In partnership with the Birmingham Museum of Art, this hands-on program invites participants to unleash their creativity through artistic exploration. Attendees will discover new ways to express themselves while connecting with the world of art in a fun and welcoming setting.

Join the Adventure at Wylam

Whether you're captivated by magic, inspired by theater, passionate about books, fascinated by music or eager to create art, Wylam Branch Library offers something for everyone this summer. These programs are just a sample of the many free opportunities available through Birmingham Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program.

Stay tuned as our Summer Reading Spotlight series continues to showcase the unique programs and experiences available at Birmingham Public Library locations throughout the city.

For more information about Summer Reading programs at Wylam Branch Library, stop by the branch at 4300 Seventh Ave., Wylam, or call (205) 785-0349.

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

"Sinners" Movie Review by BPL's William Anthony

2026-06-09T10:47:01.995-05:00

Beware of the devil down in the Mississippi Delta.

This movie review is written by William Anthony of BPL's Citizens Services Department. Check out the trailer to Sinners by clicking here.

Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan are a director-and-lead-actor duo that is not going away anytime soon. Their collaboration has grown stronger over the years, and Sinners fulfills this determined calling to make more movies together. They did a decent job navigating a variety of relevant, universal themes in Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Black Panther while still figuring out their groove as a dynamic team with similar goals.

These Oscar winners knock it out of the ballpark with Sinners. Each scene gradually unveils the evil that lurks near a group of people who just want to have a good time and enjoy loud, raucous music. I look forward to what else they will hopefully tackle down the road. This is now a professional relationship that brings to my mind other cinematic duos such as John Wayne and John Ford, Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese, Johnny Depp and Tim Burton, and Klaus Kinski and Werner Herzog. However, these men of the hour must be careful with their next project because Sinners will not be an easy film to top.

Sinners was nominated for 16 Oscars. It now holds the record for being the most nominated film ever in Oscar history. All About Eve, Titanic, and La La Land each previously held that record with 14 nominations. Although Sinners lost the Oscar for Best Picture to One Battle After Another, the genre-defying movie went home with four Oscars, including Best Original Screenplay (won by writer/director Coogler) and Best Actor - Michael B. Jordan.

This is not your typical vampire story. There is no Dracula. There are no bats nor coffins either. Sinners does not take place in Transylvania. You will quickly know why Mr. Coogler won that Oscar for Best Original Screenplay once the sun starts to set deep down in Mississippi.

The twins, Smoke and Stack, return to their hometown, Clarksdale, and open up their own juke joint after leaving behind a life of crime in Chicago. Their names are a clever reference to the blues song, “Smokestack Lightnin’” by Howlin’ Wolf. Michael B. Jordan amps up his coolness playing both of these confident but still different entrepreneurs. One look at his boisterous grin as Stack and you will think that he might be the devil. On the other hand, he exercises cautious restraint as the more strategic, calculating Smoke. This is easily the 39-year-old actor’s best performance. He effortlessly outshines his roles as Adonis Creed in the Creed series and as Erik Killmonger in Black Panther.

Although the A-list actor is front and center in this frightening Deep South tale, he carries the whole movie with a little help from a strong supporting cast. Miles Caton makes his film debut as the Smokestack Twins’ cousin, Sammie Moore. He also goes by the nickname, Preacherboy. Delroy Lindo lends his musical talent as Delta Slim. No one can play the harmonica and the piano like him. Wunmi Mosaku portrays Annie, who is Smoke’s wife. Both she and Lindo received Oscar nominations for their supporting roles. Hailee Steinfeld joins the crew as Mary, and she was romantically involved with Stack. Jayme Lawson contributes her resonant voice as Pearline. I couldn’t imagine Sinners without this talented cast.

Speaking of a strong cast, a motif that held my attention and reminded me that I’m watching a great movie is Charley Patton’s guitar. Little, innocent Sammie Moore had a death grip on that instrument even after he eventually fled away from evil and interrupted his father’s sermon. The distinct close-up of his bloody, bruised hand holding that guitar broken in half as if it is a weapon stays with me. In fact, that guitar ends up saving his life.

My favorite scene is that epic dance sequence in the juke joint where all generations of different musicians come together before the vampiric carnage plagues almost everyone. What starts out as Sammie Moore strumming that exact guitar, including its trusty metal plate, and Delta Slim playing the piano shifts gears into a centerpiece montage that I won’t forget. My eyes lit up when I saw a Jimi-Hendrixian guitarist with hints of George Clinton shred quite the solo on the dance floor. Then, it was just as exciting to see a DJ, obviously reminiscent of Run-D.M.C.'s Jam Master Jay, take over the stage with his turntables. I can’t leave out the breakdancers that spice up the evening. Even a tribesman's commanding Zaouli dance lights up this once-in-a-lifetime party.

Now, onto the vampire attacks! Remmick, portrayed by Jack O’Connell, is a bloodthirsty, ghoulish Irishman. Beware of his beady, glowing eyes. That is when you will know that he is nothing but trouble. He attempts to crash the exclusive opening night at the juke joint. Although this lead vampire is initially shunned from joining the party, that does not stop him from preying upon several guests one by one. Once he has taken a bite out of enough victims, they all go after whomever is left, mainly Smoke, Stack, and Sammie Moore. When Pearline belts out “Pale, Pale Moon”, the powerful number sets the stage for the unavoidable malevolence, so get ready when you hear that stomp of a blues song. It is startling how one festive shindig turns into a hellish, bloody nightmare.

Another favorite scene of mine involves a group of vampires waltzing around in the woods while singing the traditional Irish folk song, “Rocky Road to Dublin.” Quite a sinister jig stayed etched inside my head. This is when I knew that almost all the cast has reached the point of no return.

Some movies make me giddy because of their excellent, creatively timed needle drops. Sinners takes the task of music selections a step further and masterfully blends the blues, rock and roll, gospel music, jazz, and hip-hop all together. Coogler personifies the music performances so naturally that I found myself applauding the song and dance numbers right before I am thrusted back into the terror-filled bedlam. It's a profound reminder of how all these genres are interconnected, from Robert Johnson to Herbie Hancock, to Mahalia Jackson to Wu-Tang Clan, to The Black Keys. No matter how dark a scene gets, the main characters reinforce the bond that the blues, gospel music, and hip-hop all share.

I'm also glad that Sinners has a mid-credits scene and a post-credits scene that are worth my time as the movie wraps up. It's nice to see blues legend, Buddy Guy, at the movies as our prevailing but much, much older hero, Sammie Moore. Even during these final moments, the nefarious past still comes back to haunt him. An unsettling encounter with two surprise guests at a club seal the deal as to why music will always be relevant in a well-thought-out story similar to this one. Just like great acting and memorable writing, characterizing timeless music can bolster any movie.

Its comparison to From Dusk Till Dawn and Get Out is inevitable mainly because of similar subject matter and a Halloween-friendly mood. Luckily, Ryan Coogler brings something new to the table when it comes to discussions involving horror lore, organized crime, and race. From Dusk Till Dawn leans more into hammy grindhouse territory with pride. Just like Sinners, Get Out also won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for its modern-day, satirical blend of horror tropes and systemic racism. Sinners swaps the suburbs for the Jim Crow South. The twists and turns in the plot hit all the right notes just like the songs performed throughout the movie, and that makes this experience even more fun and timeless. In fact, Sinners feels like a concert and treats the suspense like a driving rhythm; perhaps the beat of a drum. This is why the historical drama involving vampires has become a game changer.

Apparently, another surprising source of inspiration for Ryan Coogler’s Sinners was “One” by Metallica. The more I think about it, Kirk Hammett’s final, paper-thin-sounding-but-still-out-of-control, marathon guitar solo in that popular hit single would synchronize perfectly with the shots of Smoke mowing down all the racist baddies with his Tommy gun and throwing hand grenades at them. So, there you go. Even heavy metal music found a subtle way to be a part of this Southern Gothic horror entry.

This is what happens when a major studio gives hard-working auteurs more liberty with their own vision. In this case, you get a truly original movie that successfully marries the horror genre with the history of music. Now that’s a combination that you don’t see every day.

Sinners is available to borrow on DVD from the Jefferson County Library Cooperative, including all Birmingham Public Library locations.

Reviewed by William Anthony, Librarian I - BPL Citizen Services Department

Birmingham Public Library Invites Local Authors to Apply for 2026 Local Authors’ Expo

2026-06-05T13:52:30.822-05:00

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is inviting local writers to apply for participation in the 2026 Local Authors’ Expo, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Central Library, 2100 Park Place in downtown Birmingham.

The annual event celebrates Birmingham’s literary community by providing local authors an opportunity to showcase their books, connect with readers and network with fellow writers.

BPL is accepting applications from local authors in the following categories:

• Adult Fiction — 20 available spaces
• Youth Authors — 20 available spaces
• Adult Nonfiction — 10 available spaces

Selected authors will participate in the community-wide event highlighting local literature, storytelling and creativity. A $50 participation fee will apply upon acceptance.

The deadline to apply is June 18, 2026.

Applications are available online through the 2026 Local Authors’ Expo Application on the BPL website (Local Authors Expo Application (2026).

For more information, contact the Birmingham Public Library at localauthorsbpl@cobpl.org or call 205-226-4015.

About the Birmingham Public Library

With 17 locations, the mission of the Birmingham Public Library is to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment.

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

Q&A With Bettina Byrd-Giles About "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story"

2026-06-05T13:03:28.988-05:00

What: BPL Southern History Department Talk — "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story"
Who: Bettina Byrd-Giles
When: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 | 5:30–7 p.m.
Where: Birmingham Public Library, Grand Commons (First Floor), 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Admission: Free and open to the public

More information: https://bplolinenews.blogspot.com/2026/06/birmingham-public-library-hosts.html

Q&A With Bettina Byrd-Giles About "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story"

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — For nearly two decades, Bettina Byrd-Giles (Bettina Byrd-Giles | LinkedIn) has built a career around preserving stories, championing cultural arts and helping communities connect with their history. Through her work at major research universities and cultural institutions, she has become a respected voice in communications, historical preservation and storytelling.

Now, Byrd-Giles is turning her attention to a story much closer to home.

On Tuesday, June 9, 2026, Byrd-Giles will present "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story," a free program hosted by the Birmingham Public Library's Southern History Department. The presentation explores the extraordinary life of her grandmother, Audrey Bacon Byrd, a trailblazing educator whose journey spanned some of the most transformative chapters of American history — from the legacy of emancipation and Black settlement communities in Texas to the influence of Booker T. Washington and Tuskegee Institute, the Great Migration and the civil rights era.

The presentation also comes as Audrey's life story is being adapted for film, bringing her remarkable journey to an even wider audience. Ahead of her June 9 presentation, Byrd-Giles spoke with Birmingham Public Library PR Specialist Roy L. Williams about her grandmother's legacy, the ongoing research into her family's history and the enduring influence of education across generations.

BPL: For those who are hearing her name for the first time, who was Audrey Bacon Byrd?

Byrd-Giles: Audrey Bacon Byrd was a femme fatale, a socialite, an educator, a pioneer in special education, a Bridge enthusiast, a mother, grandmother, and daughter.

BPL: What first inspired you to begin documenting and sharing your grandmother's story?

Byrd-Giles: I was watching the series, “Queens” produced by Jada Pinkett-Smith. I immediately thought of Audrey and her Tuskegee roommate Adele McQueen. Dr. McQueen told me stories about my grandmother that I thought would make an interesting story. I am not familiar with many if any stories about African American women in college in the 1930’s. Dr. McQueen’s history is documented on History Makers so I decided to focus on Audrey.

BPL: Audrey's story begins with a remarkable family history. Can you tell us about her grandparents, Sam and Kate Ware, and their role in Beeville, Texas?

Byrd-Giles: Sam and Kate Ware were Audrey’s maternal grandparents. They are considered pioneers in Beeville. In Sam’s obituary in the Beeville Bee, he is mentioned as “...standing tall among whites.” Kate’s death was also acknowledged in print though she had moved to San Antonio. I imagine that means they were well respected.

Sam was enslaved in Selma, Ala. We believe the slave holders raised horses. Sam followed his enslaver to the Civil War. Sam became a messenger for the Confederates due to his riding skills. These skills were later used when he was freed. Sam became a cowboy who drove cattle up the Chisholm Trail.

According to the Texas Historical Society, The Chisholm Trail was one of several routes used by Texas drovers to move livestock north to markets in Kansas after the Civil War.” Sam was also employed by a Union sympathizer who would later advocate for Sam and Kate in their attempt to raise money for a retirement home for formerly enslaved people. They housed African Americans who were too old to start over and did not have family to support them. Sam and Kate donated land for this project.

Sam and Kate were also two of the founders of Jones Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church in Beeville, Tex., which was a significant institution to a generation of people who were newly freed from enslavement. For example, it was also used as a school prior to construction of a Rosenwald School.

BPL: What do you mean when you use the phrase "The Booker T. Washington Effect"? And on a related note, did Booker T. Washington's philosophy influence your grandmother Audrey’s outlook on education and success?

Byrd-Giles: At first I was thinking about using the term “legacy” but I felt that BTW’s influence was more dynamic. I felt his influence was comparable to the butterfly effect with respect to the advancement of African Americans within this country directly or indirectly. The Butterfly effect refers to the notion that the single flap of a butterfly’s wings can have an effect on a place thousands of miles away. For example, a meeting between Booker T. Washington and Julius Rosenwald in Chicago led to the building of 4,000 schools.

BPL: Why was attending Tuskegee Institute such a pivotal moment in Audrey's life?

Byrd-Giles: That is a question that I am still pondering. She attended an Episcopal high school that was also a junior college in San Antonio called St. Phillips. It was a normal and industrial high school likely modeled after Tuskegee. Audrey participated in a girls mentoring group advised by Myra Davis-Hemings, one of the 13 founders of Delta Sigma Theta.

Eventually Audrey would enter a curriculum at Tuskegee that was developed by Margaret Murray Washington, 3rd wife of BTW. She was influential in the Club Woman movement. Founders of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. were also heavily involved with the Club Woman’s movement. Audrey was mentored by a founder of Delta and became a Delta when she moved to Chicago.

She met my grandfather at Tuskegee. My grandfather was a member of the Tuskegee administration so she had access to life among academics and famous people who came to Tuskegee. She eventually separated from Granddaddy and took a job in Chicago.

I am told by some archivists that the Dean of Women, Mrs. Moton, wife of the second president, would have had to endorse her position.

BPL: What does it mean to learn that your family's community is now being researched as a historic Texas Freedom Colony?

Byrd-Giles: My student interns from the University of Virginia and I are the ones conducting the research. The community in Beeville known as “Across the Creek,” has many of the characteristics of a Freedom Colony. For example, Beeville has two churches founded within a year of each other. It exists near a creek bed. There is a cemetery and Rosenwald School called Lott-Canada. The founders of the churches followed a clergyman to establish the community. Whether we prove it is a Freedom Colony or not, it is definitely a Black settlement. We have been in touch with the director of the Freedom Colonies Project, Dr. Andrea Roberts. Coincidentally, the database is housed at UVa.

Click here to learn more some of the characteristics of a Freedom Colony.

BPL: What impact did she have as an educator in Chicago?

Byrd-Giles: Audrey is mentioned in Chicago papers about 40 times. She was lauded by the district. Audrey contributed to reports for the Illinois Department of Education regarding special education. She eventually became principal of the United Cerebral Palsy School of Chicago. Students and the community benefitted from her passion for education for the students in her classrooms, parents and the broader community.

BPL: Audrey's life spanned the years between the descendants of slavery and the civil rights movement. Why is that historical connection important?

Byrd-Giles: Audrey lived during some of the most significant events that impact African Americans. She was born in 1916, 50 years after the Emancipation Proclamation. There were milestones and setbacks for African Americans during the time span between Reconstruction and The Civil Rights Movement. Many of them took place during her life.

For instance, while visiting the Tuskegee Archives, I read the student papers from the 1930s. Lynchings were an ongoing feature. During WWII, my grandparents lived on the Tuskegee Army Air Field (TAAF). Granddaddy was a supply officer. Therefore, Audrey witnessed the inclusion of colored troops including the Tuskegee Airmen.

Audrey was living in Chicago at the time of the landmark case “Brown v the Board of Education.” Eventually, she would find herself in the middle of a battle to prevent busing in her district and other attempts to desegregate schools that put African American students in harm’s way. Audrey felt that busing was not a safe nor healthy option for her students who were thriving under her leadership.

BPL: How does her story help us better understand African American history beyond what we typically learn in textbooks?

Byrd-Giles: As I researched Audrey’s background, I began to see a side of African American history that isn’t commonly discussed. Audrey’s story revealed a journey of land ownership, education, family and Black-led community-building that shaped lives after emancipation. Audrey gave me a book about Black settlements several years before she passed away. It is seldom that we learn about Black settlements and the unimaginable pressures they endured in order to survive. It was incredible to learn about communities where African Americans owned land, built institutions, and created opportunities for future generations.

Audrey and her mother both earned college degrees by the 1930s, an extraordinary achievement at a time when very few African Americans had that level of education. At the same time, my research into Reconstruction and Tuskegee Institute records documenting lynchings reminded me that these accomplishments existed alongside persistent racial violence. Audrey’s story has helped me understand African American history not only as a story of struggle, but also as one of resilience, self-determination, and families who worked deliberately to build and preserve opportunities for future generations.

BPL: What has it been like to see your family's history move from private memories to a public project?

Byrd-Giles: I am really proud to share some of the family accolade’s with the public. Much of the information is new to me as well.

BPL What do you hope young people, especially students and educators, take away from her story?

Byrd-Giles: One lesson that I would like to share with students and educators is that we are more than capable of rebuilding communities that have suffered from disinvestment. The Freedom Colonies of Texas and Black Settlements across the country were built with cooperation from formerly enslaved people, educational institutions, philanthropists and religious institutions. They built institutions such as the Rosenwald Schools which were designed by Tuskegee and paid for partly by the Rosenwald Fund and money raised by the community. Tuskegee and entities backed by Booker T. Washington and associates, such as the Jeanes Fund and the Farmer's Improvement Association provided technical assistance and direct services to the Freedom Colonies. I believe the Rosenwald partnership can be used as a template in our communities that are suffering.

BPL: As Audrey's story reaches new audiences through presentations and film, what do you hope her lasting impact will be?

Byrd-Giles: I believe there are many women like Audrey, her mother, her grandmother and great-grandmother whose stories are untold. I think young women can relate to a woman like Audrey. I think she was exceptional but not “the exception.”

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

Join the Matt Dinniman Watch Party at Springville Road Regional Library on June 11

2026-06-04T10:30:50.259-05:00

Event Details

What: Virtual Author Talk with Matt Dinniman Watch Party
When: Thursday, June 11 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Where: Springville Road Regional Branch Library, 1224 Springville Rd., Birmingham, AL 35215

To attend the event at Springville Road Regional Branch Library, register through Eventbrite at https://dccbpl.eventbrite.com.

Can't make it to the library? You can still participate online by registering for the virtual event by clicking here https://dccbplvirtual.eventbrite.com.

Birmingham, Ala. - Hold onto your heart-patterned boxers! New York Times bestselling author Matt Dinniman, creator of the wildly popular Dungeon Crawler Carl series, is coming to Birmingham Public Library virtually on Thursday, June 11, and local fans have a chance to experience the event together.

Join fellow Dungeon Crawler Carl enthusiasts at the Springville Road Regional Branch Library for an epic watch party featuring Dinniman's virtual author talk. Fans are encouraged to come meet other readers - and enjoy donuts - while tuning in to hear from one of fantasy's most entertaining authors. Springville Road Regional Library will provide free cat ears to attendees while supplies last – so get there early!

For those unfamiliar, Dinniman’s book genre is lit RPG (Role playing game). His books involve the main characters progressing through a series of levels, gaining stats and collecting items along the way. Learn more about Dinniman’s rise from self-published author to currently Number 4 on the New York Times best-selling list by reading this article https://www.seattlemet.com/arts-and-culture/2026/05/dungeon-crawler-carl-matt-dinniman

The virtual conversation will focus on Dinniman's latest release, A Parade of Horribles, the newest installment in the bestselling Dungeon Crawler Carl saga. In the novel, Carl and Princess Donut find themselves navigating the dungeon's tenth floor amid growing chaos, mysterious glitches, and ominous rumors about a place known only as "a Parade of Horribles." As always, the stakes are higher than ever, and Carl has plans of his own that could change everything.

Whether you're a longtime crawler or just discovering the adventures of Carl and Princess Donut, this event offers a fun opportunity to connect with fellow fans and hear directly from the author behind one of fantasy's most beloved series.

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

Birmingham Public Library Hosts Presentation on June 9 Exploring the Legacy of Educator Audrey Bacon Byrd and the Enduring Impact of Booker T. Washington

2026-06-03T12:09:48.231-05:00

PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

What: BPL Southern History Department Talk — "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story"
Presenter: Bettina Byrd-Giles
When: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 | 5:30–7 p.m.
Where: Birmingham Public Library, Grand Commons (1st Floor), 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Background: Presented by Bettina Byrd-Giles, "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story" explores the extraordinary life of Audrey Bacon Byrd, a trailblazing educator whose journey connected the legacy of emancipation, the Jim Crow era and the modern civil rights movement. Born into the legacy of formerly enslaved individuals, Audrey's story spans her childhood in San Antonio, Texas, her transformative years at the historically Black Tuskegee Institute, and her career as an educator whose influence extended across generations.
Admission: Free and open to the public.
Information: Contact the Birmingham Public Library's Southern History Department at 205-226-3665.

Birmingham Public Library Hosts Presentation on June 9 Exploring the Legacy of Educator Audrey Bacon Byrd and the Enduring Impact of Booker T. Washington

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham Public Library's Southern History Department will host Birmingham’s Bettina Byrd-Giles for a special presentation, "The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story," on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Grand Commons on the first floor of the Central Library, 2100 Park Place.

The free public program will explore the extraordinary life of Audrey Bacon Byrd, a trailblazing educator and family matriarch whose journey connected the legacy of emancipation and the Jim Crow era to the modern civil rights movement.

Presented by her granddaughter, Bettina Byrd-Giles, the program traces Audrey's family roots, educational experiences and lifelong commitment to teaching. Through family history, historical research and personal storytelling, Byrd-Giles will highlight how Audrey's life embodied the transformative power of education, resilience and community leadership.

Audrey Bacon Byrd was born into a family whose story reflected the opportunities and challenges faced by African Americans in the decades following emancipation. Her maternal grandparents, Sam and Kate Ware, were among the pioneering Black landowners of Beeville, Texas. Today, their community is being researched as part of a historic Texas Freedom Colony, settlements established by formerly enslaved people and their descendants after the Civil War.

A pivotal chapter of Audrey's life unfolded at Tuskegee Institute, where she was deeply influenced by the philosophies of educator and leader Booker T. Washington. His emphasis on economic independence, educational advancement and community uplift helped shape her life's work and inspired what Byrd-Giles describes as "The Booker T. Washington Effect"—the enduring influence of education across generations.

Audrey carried those lessons into a distinguished career as an educator, teaching in Chicago during a period of significant social change before ultimately settling in Northern California, where she continued to impact the lives of students, family members and her community.

"The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey's Story" honors Audrey's legacy while illuminating broader themes in African American history, including migration, education, self-determination and the lasting bonds of family. The presentation also comes as Audrey's remarkable life story is being adapted for film, bringing her legacy to new audiences.

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

Birmingham Children's Theatre Brings Free Performances of "The Jungle Book" to Birmingham Public Library This Summer

2026-06-03T10:34:58.995-05:00

Birmingham Children's Theatre practicing for "The Jungle Book" at BPL Downtown

"The Jungle Book" Performance Information

What: Birmingham Children's Theatre presents "The Jungle Book"

Adapted By: Greg Banks, based on the books by Rudyard Kipling

Director: Irealle Sylvas

When: Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., June 20 – July 25, 2026

Where: Birmingham Public Library locations below

Central Library – June 20 and July 25
Five Points West Regional Library – June 27
Springville Road Regional Library – July 11
Avondale Regional Library – July 18

Admission: Free; however, seating is limited and advance registration is strongly encouraged.

Recommended For: All ages

Tickets & Information: https://www.bct123.org/jungle-book

About the Show: Join Mowgli, Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther and a host of unforgettable jungle characters in this fast-paced adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic tales. Presented by Birmingham Children's Theatre, "The Jungle Book" brings adventure, humor and imagination to audiences of all ages through an engaging live theatre experience.

Birmingham Children's Theatre Brings Free Performances of "The Jungle Book" to Birmingham Public Library This Summer

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Birmingham Children's Theatre is partnering with Birmingham Public Library (BPL) to stage a free, family-friendly production of “The Jungle Book” this summer.

Adapted by Greg Banks from the beloved tales of Rudyard Kipling and directed by Irealle Sylvas, the show runs Saturdays at 3:30 p.m. from June 20 through July 25, 2026 at three BPL locations across Birmingham. All performances are free and open to the public, but space is limited so audiences need to reserve their spot in advance.

Reserve tickets and find more information by clicking here https://www.bct123.org/jungle-book

“The Jungle Book” performance schedule at Birmingham Public Library is as follows:

• Saturday, June 20, 10:30 a.m. — Central Library, 2100 Park Place

• Saturday, June 27, 10:30 a.m. — Five Points West Regional Library, 4812 Avenue W

• Saturday, July 11, 10:30 a.m. — Springville Road Regional Library, 1224 Old Springville Road

• Saturday, July 18, 10:30 a.m. — Avondale Regional Library, 509 South 40th St.

• Saturday, July 25, 10:30 a.m. — Central Library, 2100 Park Place

The production follows Mowgli, a curious kid who finds himself lost deep in the jungle, on a fast-paced adventure through Rudyard Kipling’s classic tales. Along the way, Mowgli befriends the lovable Baloo the Bear and the wise Bagheera the Panther, outwits a scheming gang of monkeys, and comes face-to-face with the fierce tiger Shere Khan.

It's a thrilling, fun-filled retelling that's perfect for young adventurers and their families.

"We are excited to welcome Birmingham Children's Theatre back to our libraries this summer," said Janine Langston, Executive Director of the Birmingham Public Library. "This partnership helps bring stories to life for children and families while encouraging reading, imagination and community engagement."

According to Birmingham Children's Theatre, rehearsals for the production began May 26 as cast members prepared to bring the classic tale from page to stage for audiences across Birmingham.

Founded in 1947, Birmingham Children's Theatre is one of the nation's oldest and largest professional theatres dedicated to young audiences. Through performances, educational programs and community outreach, the organization serves thousands of children and families annually throughout Alabama and the Southeast.

Families interested in attending are encouraged to reserve seats in advance. Registration information and additional details are available at www.bct123.org/jungle-book.

For more information about Birmingham Public Library's Summer Reading programs and events, visit www.cobpl.org.

About Birmingham Public Library

The mission of the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment. Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is more than books: it's a place to learn, create, and connect. Join us for engaging programs and classes — storytimes for little ones, hands-on technology workshops, lively author events, book clubs, movies, music, games for all ages, and so much more. Prefer digital? Access eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming media from anywhere, anytime. Whether you're here to study, relax, or meet new friends, you'll always find a warm welcome and something new to discover at the Birmingham Public Library. For more information, go to our website, www.cobpl.org or follow us on social media.

About the Birmingham Children's Theatre

The mission of the Birmingham Children’s Theatre (BCT) is to educate, entertain, and enrich the lives of children through the magic of professional theatre. As Birmingham’s only professional theatre company with a specific focus on the education of children through the arts, BCT celebrates the unique role that it plays in the community and recognizes the importance of providing a quality experience for eager young minds from across the State of Alabama. Founded in 1947, Birmingham Children’s Theatre does nine professional productions each year and has a variety of class and camp opportunities for youth of all ages.

Address: 2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N.*These performances are on tour with Birmingham Public Libraries and are not taking place at BCT’s home theatre.
Phone Number: 205-458-8181
Website and social media handles: WWW.BCT123.ORG

https://www.facebook.com/birminghamchildrenstheatre

https://www.instagram.com/bhamchildrenstheatre/

Show webpage: https://www.bct123.org/jungle-book

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

Birmingham Public Library Presents Bards & Brews Open Mic Tribute Honoring the Legacy of Voice Porter on June 5 at Ferus Artisan Ales

2026-05-29T10:51:28.908-05:00

What: BPL’s Bards & Brews Open Mic Tribute to Voice Porter
When: Friday, June 5, 2026 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. (doors open for open mic sign up at 6 p.m.)
Where: Ferus Artisan Ales’ The Reserve, located above Umami in the Trussville Entertainment District at 215 Bell Way, Suite B, Trussville, AL 35173
About the Event: Birmingham Public Library’s Bards & Brews will host a special open mic honoring the late Brian “Voice Porter” Hawkins and his legacy of creativity, community and artistic expression. Voice Porter hosted Bards & Brews for nearly a decade until his passing in August 2021. Bards & Brews is supported through a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts to the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library.

Birmingham, Ala. - The legacy of the late Brian “Voice Porter” Hawkins, longtime host of Birmingham Public Library’s popular monthly spoken word poetry and craft beer series Bards & Brews, will be celebrated during a special Bards & Brews Open Mic on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Ferus Artisan Ales in Trussville.

The spoken word open mic will take place across from Ferus in the Trussville Entertainment District at The Reserve, a venue located above Umami at 215 Bell Way, Suite B, Trussville, AL 35173. Doors will open at 6 p.m., followed by a musical guest at 6:30 p.m. and poetry.

Hosted by current emcee Thed Weller, the evening will feature live music by Kari Dione followed by open mic spoken word poetry celebrating the creativity, community and artistic expression championed by Voice Porter.

For nearly a decade, Voice Porter served as the face and voice of Bards & Brews until his unexpected passing in August 2021 at age 42. Porter was widely known throughout Alabama’s spoken word community as an advocate for Ensley, poets, artists and community expression.

This year marks the third consecutive year Birmingham Public Library has hosted a June tribute event in Porter’s honor during his birth month. Porter mentored dozens of poets across Alabama and helped transform Bards & Brews into a welcoming space for creative expression and community connection.

The event is free and open to the public. Guests must be 18 or older to attend and 21 or older to purchase alcoholic beverages. Beer, wine and liquor will be available for purchase.

Anyone interested in sharing original spoken word poetry before a live audience is encouraged to participate.

For more information, visit www.cobpl.org, follow the Bards & Brews Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BardsandBrews or the Birmingham Public Library Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BirminghamPublicLibrary.

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

Bethany Moody to Host Artist’s Talk at BPL on May 30

2026-05-27T10:24:46.999-05:00

Bethany Moody in her studio

Please join us at the Central Library on Saturday, May 30, at 2 p.m. for an artist’s talk with Bethany Moody. Moody will discuss the guiding concepts and processes behind her exhibition Play Things, presently on view in the Sculpture Gallery.

The talk will take place in the room adjoining the Fourth Floor Gallery at 2:00 p.m. Please register for this free event at Eventbrite. If you haven't yet visited Play Things, May 30 is your last opportunity!

The animated yet abstract drawings and soft sculptures in "Play Things" combine toy history, systems-driven design, material culture, and labor rights. In her talk, Moody will trace the artistic practice behind this body of work and offer an in-depth look at her process, from sustainable material sourcing to slow hand-finishing.

Shoehorn (close-up), 2024

The textile sculptures featured in Play Things are handcrafted from repurposed cotton bedsheets and hand-knit and crocheted wool, whose rich, unusual hues Moody created with an array of natural dyes. Other pieces are made from reclaimed cotton fabric woven at the Indian Head Textile Mills in Cordova, Alabama (1898-1962). According to Moody, “these materials represent lived experience: the things we value, the waste we create, and the environments we inhabit.”

Illustration of Potential Orientation, Quadruple Handset, 2025

An educator and interdisciplinary artist, Moody has exhibited nationally in Philadelphia, Atlanta, Chicago, Pittsburgh and Minneapolis, with recent shows at Abroms-Engel Institute for the Arts and Sarah Moody Gallery of Art. She has completed residencies at Vermont Studio Center, Studio by the Tracks, Troy University, and the University of Montevallo, and is a recipient of the 2025 Individual Artist Fellowship and Project Grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. Moody has also led public workshops, talks, keynote addresses, and demonstrations on her practice and related processes. She is currently an Instructor of Foundations at the University of Alabama. Learn more about Moody's work on her website.

This activity is made possible in part by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

Modular Double Cross and Double Handset - Orientation 1, 2025

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

BPL Digital Resource Spotlight: LearningExpress Library Helps Graduates Prepare for Careers

2026-05-12T08:52:00.000-05:00

Birmingham, Ala. - As graduation season arrives, many high school seniors and college graduates are preparing for the next chapter in life: entering the workforce, exploring career options, or preparing for professional exams.

To assist jobseekers, this week’s Birmingham Public Library database spotlight features LearningExpress Library Career Preparation, a free online resource designed to help users build workplace skills, prepare for exams, and explore career opportunities.

Available remotely with a valid Jefferson County Library Cooperative (JCLC) card, LearningExpress Library offers interactive practice tests, tutorials, and career preparation tools for a wide range of professions and industries.

Career Preparation Resources Include:

Learn About a Career
Job Search and Workplace Skills
Resume and interview preparation tools
Workplace Success and Time Management Skills
Digital Literacy and Personal Finance Skills

Users can also prepare for a variety of career and certification exams, including:

Civil Service Exams
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Exams
Nursing Exams
Teaching Exams
Law Enforcement Exams
Military Exams
Real Estate Exams
Cosmetology Exams
Emergency Medical Services and Firefighting Exams
Electrician and Plumbing Exams
Hospitality Industry Exams
Allied Health and Social Worker Exams
Air Traffic Controller Exams
WorkKeys® Assessments and TOEIC® preparation

LearningExpress Library also features scoring and analysis tools that allow users to track progress and identify areas for improvement while studying.

For recent graduates entering a competitive job market, these resources can provide an important advantage, all available at no cost through Birmingham Public Library.

Access Information

LearningExpress Library is free with a Birmingham Public Library/JCLC library card.

Explore LearningExpress Library here: Welcome to LearningExpress Library™

Explore all Birmingham Public Library databases here:
Birmingham Public Library Databases

Last month’s spotlight featured the Just for Kids database, a safe, ad-free educational platform designed for younger learners with videos, games, and homework help from trusted children’s programming.

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

Birmingham Public Library Expands Blood Pressure Kit Checkouts to All 17 Library Locations

2026-05-12T08:31:00.000-05:00

Blood pressure kits can now be checked out at all 17 Birmingham Public Library locations.

Mr. Floyd, a Woodlawn community resident, recently checked out the first blood pressure kit at Woodlawn Branch Library.

Birmingham, Ala. — Do you need to get your blood pressure under control? Thanks to a collaboration with the American Heart Association, patrons can now use their library card at all 17 Birmingham Public Library (BPL) locations to check out blood pressure kits to monitor their health at home.

The kits were made available through the American Heart Association’s “Libraries With Heart” initiative. Previously, the blood pressure kits were available at only five BPL locations since the program began in August 2023: Central, Five Points West, Springville Road, North Birmingham and Avondale. Expanding the program citywide is part of BPL’s ongoing mission of transforming lives across Birmingham and helping residents stay healthy.

The blood pressure kits available for checkout from BPL include:

• A blood pressure cuff and monitor
• Easy-to-read instructions on how to use the cuff
• Educational materials about high blood pressure and local health resources

According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, high blood pressure is often called “the silent killer” because it usually has no warning signs or symptoms until serious health problems develop. In 2024, the Alabama Department of Health reported that 42 percent of Alabamians had high blood pressure, increasing the risk for heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the state.

Kim Baldwin, Vice President of Community Impact for the American Heart Association in Greater Birmingham, said having blood pressure kits available for checkout at all Birmingham Public Library locations will help improve the health of area residents.

“By making blood pressure monitor kits available at Birmingham Public Library locations, we are helping remove barriers to health access and empowering residents to take an active role in managing their health,” Baldwin said. “Libraries are trusted community spaces, and this partnership allows us to meet people where they are while increasing awareness around heart health and the importance of knowing your numbers.”

The mission of Birmingham Public Library is to provide the highest quality experience for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and enjoyment. BPL Deputy Director Ka'ryn Davis-West says supporting community well-being is a natural extension of that work.

“Through our partnership with the American Heart Association’s ‘Libraries with Heart Loaner Blood Pressure Monitor Program,’ patrons can take home a blood pressure kit just as they would a book, using it privately and on their own schedule. This makes health monitoring more accessible, while reinforcing the library’s role as a trusted, everyday resource for our community.”

The blood pressure kits available for checkout from BPL include:

• A blood pressure cuff and monitor
• Easy-to-read instructions on how to use the cuff
• Educational materials about high blood pressure and local health resources

Checking out the kits allows patrons to regularly monitor their blood pressure at home and become more aware of their heart health. Additional information about monitoring blood pressure at home is available through the American Heart Association Blood Pressure Monitoring Guide.

Important Things to Know About Checking Out BPL Blood Pressure Kits

• Patrons must be Birmingham residents to check out the blood pressure kits.
• A limited number of kits are available at each location. Patrons are encouraged to place holds or reserves on kits.
• Blood pressure kits may be checked out for two weeks.
• Blood pressure kits are now available at all 17 Birmingham Public Library locations.

For more information about BPL resources and programs, visit www.cobpl.org or follow our Birmingham Public Library social media pages.

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

Movie Review: "One Battle After Another"

2026-05-12T08:04:00.005-05:00

“¡Viva la revolución!”

One of my biggest fears is going into a movie with high expectations and leaving the theater underwhelmed, or worse, disappointed. Trust me. I’ve been there, and it is not a pleasant feeling.

You better believe I was excited about One Battle After Another , the 2026 Academy Awards' Best Picture Winner. Even after watching and figuring out its trailer, I still wasn’t sure what Paul Thomas Anderson had up his sleeve. That mystery only made me more anticipatory for Mr. Anderson’s 10th feature film. Well, this is the most fun that I’ve had at the movies ever since watching Parasite and Everything Everywhere All at Once for the first time. He is not the first director to give us a string of flawless stories, but it always feels so fulfilling to watch the present-day filmmaker push himself with each project and reap the benefits.

All the revolutionary mayhem revolves around a cat-and-mouse chase between members of a far-left, radical group called the French 75 and the crooked but stern Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw. When a perpetually stoned but still alert father, Bob Ferguson, and his teenage daughter, Willa Ferguson, adjust to a normal life while living off the grid, they still inevitably deal with the trouble from Bob’s past activities a part of the French 75. From there, plot twists erupt and keep a tight grip on your attention during its 2-hour-and-42-minute runtime.

Without spoiling any secrets, this eerily relevant premise packs in government raids, a white supremacist secret society known as the Christmas Adventurers Club, and a DNA test kit. Willa’s estranged mother, Perfidia Beverly Hills, appears in a handful of scenes, but her restless spirit prevails throughout the rest of the story. Teyana Taylor captures her bold energy with no hesitation. Even these precise details are still not enough to summarize what unfolds before us.

An onslaught of energy strides through every scene with the right dose of satirical humor and escalating tension. These elements run headfirst into each other and, then, end up collaborating well with each other. One minute, I’m laughing hard. The next minute, my jaw hits the floor. All the surprises arrive at just the right time with little to no effort. That’s how you know that you’re watching a film that will be timeless. I actually lost track of time during each screening that I attended.

The animated cast is a major reason why the momentum cannot ease up. It is as if each star has been waiting a long time to take on their assigned roles. One Battle After Another invites you to learn as much as you can about these people who you might not be around every day, but who remain forces of nature in their communities.

Sean Penn was born to play an antagonist as vitriolic as Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw. He won’t stop at nothing until he brings down every, single member of the French 75 and doubles down on border enforcement, even if his menacing demeanor comes across as peculiar or even desperate to prove his strength. It’s hard to forget Lockjaw not just because of his slimy, unhinged personality but also secrets involving his love life. He won his third Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for portraying this villain with such a punchable sneer. Penn is now one of four actors to have won three Oscars for specifically acting. The other three actors to accomplish this are Walter Brennan, Jack Nicholson, and Daniel Day-Lewis.

It may have been a boxing match this past awards season between Michael B. Jordan for Sinners and Timothée Chalamet for Marty Supreme. Let’s not underestimate Leonardo DiCaprio’s solid performance as Bob Ferguson, who used to go by the name “Ghetto” Pat Calhoun when he was a younger activist. As an older man, imagine Mr. Ferguson as the Dude from The Big Lebowski but more uptight and armed with a rifle. He is the glue that holds everything together despite his paranoia. Leo has always treated his career like a marathon instead of a sprint, even when he was a teenager. One Battle After Another is further proof that the Oscar winner has cultivated an impressive filmography that only a few of his peers can match because of his discerning approach to his now iconic roles, including Bob Ferguson.

Chase Infiniti hits the ground running with her breakout role as Willa Ferguson. She navigates danger well while caught in the crossfire between Lockjaw and her familial allies. Her self-reliance is one of the best character traits that develops throughout One Battle After Another. In one scene during a parent-teacher conference, Willa’s teacher shares with Bob that she is a leader among her classmates. She even holds her own father accountable when she gets frustrated with his drinking and smoking. That maturity serves her well once she faces the ugly side of the law. Although this rising actress also known for The Testaments and Presumed Innocent was nominated for a Golden Globe and a BAFTA, it is a shame that she did not receive an Oscar nomination. Infiniti will hopefully soon receive another Oscar nomination.

Last but not least, Benicio del Toro is back in another P.T. Anderson film as the wise but calm Sensei Sergio St. Carlos. He jumps from Inherent Vice into this immediate masterpiece. He mentors Willa and helps Bob whenever troubles closes in on him. No conflicts seem to bother him because he always resorts to a backup plan. As street-smart as he is, think of Sensei Sergio St. Carlos as the much-needed comic relief to everyone else’s high-strung energy. Of course he takes a selfie with his buddy, Bob, before they drive away from a hospital. That exemplifies his mellow personality.

Whenever you hear someone say, “Green Acres, Beverly Hillbillies, and Hooterville Junction,” that is when you know something crazy is about to happen. Keep that in mind and buckle up for each surprise ride straight ahead. This alarming phrase is also a clever nod to the song, “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” by Gil Scott-Heron.

The best and most important sequences happen to be chase sequences, whether on foot or in a car. Running or speeding away is a constant motif for our central characters as they must make critical decisions while on their feet. Some characters run away from their problems. Others run to solve a problem. There is no time to ponder too hard about every single battle ahead. The most climactic moment in the whole movie involves a heart-pounding car chase on a hilly desert highway. The white-knuckle, three-car showdown ranks alongside other iconic car chases seen in great action thrillers such as Bullitt and The French Connection. An adrenaline rush this overwhelming makes this full-throttle finale all the more rewarding.

Although One Battle After Another takes inspiration from Thomas Pynchon’s Vineland, it evolves into its own entity. How in the world do you reorganize the pacing with a story that has been deemed hard to handle? Vineland primarily takes place during Reagan-era America, including flashbacks to the late 1960s and the early 1970s. One Battle After Another takes place well into the 21st century, more specifically within the past 10 years. What makes this movie more compelling is how prescient the source material, Vineland, is 26 years after it was published. It is as if One Battle After Another picks up where Vineland left off and refuses to slow down.

So, it makes sense for Paul Thomas Anderson to omit a lot of the content from this postmodern novel, even though this feature film also won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay this past year. Capitalizing on the overarching, revolutionary themes instead of bringing almost every miniscule detail to the screen pays off.

He even molded his own characters in accordance with the central figures in Vineland. Bob Ferguson mirrors Zoyd Wheeler. Colonel Steven J. Lockjaw mirrors Brock Vond. Willa Ferguson mirrors Prairie Wheeler. Perfidia Beverly Hills also draws some parallels with Frenesi Gates.

This is not the first time that he has tackled material written by Thomas Pynchon. His 2014 film, Inherent Vice, has become one of his more unsung films that understood the hazy purpose of Pynchon’s 2009 novel. The leap in time does not diminish how all these characters, ranging from ambitious and stoned to racist and ruthless, feel about America today and yesterday. It is a breath of air to watch the cast tap into what it means to always be on the run. In fact, there is an amusing scene where Bob Ferguson gets into an argument on the phone with a comrade over remembering the password for the question, “What time is it?” Any urgency never dilutes the spectacle of adventure.

The auteur behind Boogie Nights and Magnolia always prioritizes keeping us engaged, not just entertained. You can tell that he works really hard at depicting what an ideal life might seem like in California but surprises you with the sudden, unexplainable mysteries that make you want his movies to never end. He accomplishes this feat without breaking a sweat. That is the best part about his filmography. It is a rule of thumb to keep in mind while filming your ensemble cast, especially when a pivotal scene erupts from sheer chaos. His work doesn’t fade away because the seasoned, 55-year-old man in charge never abandons why we care about and support his essential characters in the first place; no matter what their motives are. All the sociopolitical subject matter gives something for everyone on both sides of the political aisle to think about and discuss.

Most of Mr. Anderson’s movies, including Punch-Drunk Love and There Will Be Blood, take place in California. He is from Los Angeles after all. As a filmmaker, it never hurts to film what you know and understand. The familiarity allows you to go deeper with your story. This is why Magnolia and Boogie Nights in particular feel so human, no matter how heavy and even upsetting some scenes involving the adult entertainment industry and family dysfunction are. Every individual steals a scene because their worth still shines even when life is too hard on them. One Battle After Another hits that same nail on its head once again. It is not as loopy as Inherent Vice. Neither does it pursue youthful playfulness without worrying too much about the political climate like Licorice Pizza does. Plenty of anxiety still dwells up during nail-biting chase sequences and unsettling meetings between evil men. It does not wallow in sorrow like Magnolia or The Master are allowed to do. There is still no time to do that right here.

Here is the bottom line: it is just such a fun movie to watch. Such an unbelievable journey for all never loses steam and sends a much-needed jolt to the seriousness associated with holding onto family and dealing with divisive politics. I am sure that P.T. Anderson was grinning from ear to ear while wrapping up the most important, spellbinding sequences. One Battle After Another is quite rewatchable for this very reason. If the director is having fun doing his job, then I will have fun watching the finished product. I ended up seeing this action comedy three times in theaters. We are just over halfway through the 2020s, and One Battle After Another might end up being my number one movie of this decade. It is a tough act to follow. I know that much.

One Battle After Another won 6 Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director – Paul Thomas Anderson.

This is why I still go to the movies in this day and age, and you should too.

One Battle After Another is available to borrow on DVD from the Jefferson County Library Cooperative, including all 18 active Birmingham Public Library locations.

Reviewed by William Anthony, Librarian I - BPL Citizen Services Department

"The Ensley Childhood Project" Exhibit to Open May 15 at BPL First Floor Gallery in Downtown Birmingham

2026-05-08T12:21:00.002-05:00

"The Watts Sisters"

"Bush grads"

Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is extremely honored to host The Ensley Childhood Project in its First Floor Gallery downtown, 2100 Park Place. The exhibition will open on Friday, May 15, and will be accompanied by a reception from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Fourth Floor Gallery.

The Ensley Childhood Project is a non-linear timeline of the historic Ensley neighborhood by way of homemade family photos, archived videos, and written narratives. The reception will honor the subjects of the featured media as well as the show’s curator, Timothy Quarshie.

The Ensley Childhood Project’s focus on vernacular photography and videography reaffirms the importance of stories from underrepresented neighborhoods while also reminding these individuals and those who visit the exhibition that their memories and captured lives are a work of art.

The Ensley Childhood Project is the first curated work of Timothy Quarshie. The project was first imagined in 2023 and gained support from Jahman Hill of The Flourish Alabama and Renew Birmingham, which led to a one-and-a-half year undertaking that included research of the Ensley area, interviews of residents and community leaders, and photo acquisition and curation. The first two iterations of the project were held on the 600 block of 19th Street Ensley as part of the up-and-coming Ensley Black Arts District.

The Ensley Childhood Project is made possible in part by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. It will be on display through July 25.

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

BPL Database Spotlight: Just for Kids

2026-04-24T15:43:00.001-05:00

Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is launching a series of spotlights on some of our top online library databases.

This week's spotlight features Just for Kids, a safe, ad-free platform with homework help, games, and videos from favorites like Sesame Street, Dr. Seuss, Reading Rainbow, and The Electric Company.

Designed for Pre-K through elementary learners, Just for Kids offers 5,000+ videos, audio content, and interactive activities focused on early literacy and core subjects like math, science, arts, and history. Content from kid-friendly TV shows such as Arthur, Franklin, and shows by The Muppets’ founder Jim Henson keeps learning fun, engaging, and age-appropriate, while giving parents peace of mind in a secure, trusted environment.

Just for Kids is specifically targeted to young viewers, keeping the content fresh, fun and engaging. With a good variety of subjects, popular categories and top featured producers, Just for Kids has something for every young patron!

Access: Free with your BPL/JCLC library card (you must be a Birmingham resident).

Click here: https://jfk.infobase.com/PortalPlayLists.aspx?wid=3256

Parents, if your children are high school seniors or soon-to-be college grads, you need to join us soon for our next spotlight, Learning Express Library, a database offering test prep, career tools, and resume help for teens and adults.

Explore all BPL databases: https://www.cobpl.org/virtual/databases/

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

Speak Loud, Win Big: $500 on the Line at Bards & Brews Poetry Slam May 1 at Central Library

2026-04-22T12:50:00.002-05:00

The Stage Is Set for BPL's Bards & Brews Poetry Slam on May 1: 10 Poets. 3 Rounds. One Champion.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Birmingham Public Library (BPL) invites the community to experience some of the metro area’s top spoken word artists competing for a combined $500 in a Bards & Brews Poetry Slam happening Friday, May 1 at the Central Library downtown.

This will be the second slam of the year hosted by Bards & Brews, BPL’s high-energy monthly spoken word poetry series where poets express their voices on stage.

Ten poets will go head-to-head in a fast-paced, three-round poetry slam. First place wins a $250 check, second place $150 and third place $100. With audience members serving as judges, every performance counts and getting the crowd on your side matters. Thed Weller will serve as host.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with live music by saxophonist Saxual Healer beginning at 6:30 p.m., followed by the poetry slam. The competition is limited to the first 10 poets who register on-site and pay the $5 entry fee.

Admission is free and open to the public; you must be 18 or older to enter and 21 or older to drink beer samples. Yellowhammer Brewing will serve as the beer sponsor for the evening.

Now in its 16th year, Bards & Brews continues to be one of the library’s most popular programs. 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.

For updates and more information, visit the Bards & Brews Facebook page.

What: Bards & Brews Poetry Slam
When: Friday, May 1, 2026 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. (Poet registration begins at 6:00 p.m.)
Where: Birmingham Public Library’s Central Location,
2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
Host: Thed Weller
Live Music: Saxual Healer
Beer Sponsor: Yellowhammer Brewing

About: Bards & Brews, Birmingham Public Library’s monthly spoken word series, is supported by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, presented through the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library.

Admission: Free (18+ to enter; 21+ to receive beer samples)

Poet Entry Fee: $5 | Limited to first 10 poets

Prizes:
1st Place – $250
2nd Place – $150
3rd Place – $100

Written by Roy L. Williams, Public Relations Specialist

New Solo Art Exhibition by Natalie Harrison Opens at BPL

2026-04-22T12:11:00.004-05:00

The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is excited to announce Fragments, a solo exhibition by artist Natalie Harrison, now on view in the the Central Library’s Fourth Floor Gallery.

Fragments presents a selection of Harrison's most recent paintings. Richly hued and textured, the featured works are inspired by the diversity and often intricate designs of jewelry and fabric. A reception for the artist will take place on Friday, May 15, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the gallery.

Harrison says her attraction to jewelry and fabric stems from their association with femininity. The distinctive texture of her paintings is created by various manipulations of acrylic paint to the extent that it becomes almost three-dimensional in form. 

In Fragments, Harrison's focus was on "recycling the unused fragments of paint from [previous] pieces into new molded forms. While the molds themselves remain consistent, the paint allows each form to have individuality." After incorporating the pieces into single works on specially made panels, Harrison's creations take on the appearance of tapestries or quilts.

Natalie Harrison - Green Square Quilt 1

2026 | acrylic paint on panel | 6 x 6 inches

Natalie Harrison was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee. She received her BFA from Middle Tennessee State University in 2009 and her MFA from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2013.

Harrison’s work has been featured in solo shows at the Gadsden Museum of Art, Lowe Mill (Huntsville), and the Samford University Gallery, as well as in group shows around the country. She lives and works in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband Alex and her Chihuahua Ginger.

Read more about Harrison and her work on her website at natalie-harrison.com or on Instagram @natalie__harrison.

Fragments is made possible in part by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. The exhibition is the latest in BPL's Art for Everyone visual arts series. 

Natalie Harrison - Purple and Cream Tapestry 1

2026 | acrylic paint on panel | 24 x 18 inches

Written by Margaret Splane, Library Assistant III for Art for Everyone,

Community Engagement, Fundraising

Birmingham Public Library Kicks Off 2026 Summer Reading with Free Family Event at Avondale Park

2026-04-21T07:28:00.001-05:00

Event Details:

What: 2026 Summer Reading Kickoff
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: Avondale Park, 4105 5^th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL

Birmingham Public Library Kicks Off 2026 Summer Reading with Free Family Event at Avondale Park

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) invites families from across the city to participate in its 2026 Summer Reading Kickoff on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Avondale Park, adjacent to Avondale Regional Branch Library.

The 2026 theme is “Unearth a Story.” Sponsored by the Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library and The Caring Foundation, the Summer Reading Kickoff will feature family-friendly interactive activities designed to spark excitement about reading for patrons of all ages, from toddlers and children to teens, adults, and seniors.

Attendees can enjoy crafts, face painting, a book walk, games, inflatables, and live attractions including a petting zoo experience, balloon art, and a dinosaur-themed selfie station. Free treats like snow cones and food options will be available, along with giveaways and prizes throughout the event.

Attendees will be able to register for Summer Reading onsite during the Kickoff event. Families can also sign up for Summer Reading programs at Birmingham Public Library locations citywide starting May 9.

The Summer Reading Program is a part of BPL’s mission to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment. By keeping young minds engaged during the school break, the program helps reduce “summer slide” learning loss while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and confidence.

For more information, visit www.cobpl.org.

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

Birmingham Public Library Highlights Innovative Programs During National Library Week

2026-04-17T14:04:00.000-05:00

BPL is celebrating 2026 National Library Week April 19-25

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is celebrating National Library Week (April 19–25, 2026) by highlighting a wide range of nontraditional programs and services that go far beyond books.

Established in 1958 by the American Library Association, National Library Week recognizes the vital role libraries play in communities nationwide. This year, BPL invites residents to explore how our libraries fulfill our mission to provide the highest quality experience to our community for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment and enjoyment.

National Library Week is the perfect time to experience everything BPL has to offer. During the week of April 20–26, BPL will host a variety of standout programs, including:

Free Legal Assistance

Ask an Attorney — West End Branch Library (April 20, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
Volunteer Lawyers Birmingham will provide free civil legal advice in one-on-one sessions.

Technology & Innovation

AI Genealogy Assistant: A User’s Guide to Goldie May — Central Library (April 20, 12 p.m.)
Learn how artificial intelligence is transforming genealogy research. A virtual option is available via Zoom. Click here to register https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84613880296?pwd=Mwhwl4r0KB6uNOF73Hi5qg5v1SlpuY.1#success

Health & Wellness Programs

Line dancing, chair aerobics, and yoga classes are offered across multiple branches, including North Birmingham, Titusville, East Ensley and Five Points West libraries. These programs promote fitness, mobility, and social engagement, especially for older adults.

Arts & Creative Expression

Dada Poetry Workshop — East Ensley Branch Library (April 21)
Sewing, crochet, and quilting workshops throughout the week at
Hands-on craft programs for all ages

Environmental & Community Programs

Earth Day Seedling Giveaway — Southside Branch Library (April 21–25)
Earth Day Concert featuring Shaheed & DJ Supreme — Springville Road Regional Library (April 21)

Music & Youth Engagement

Storytime with Pinson Valley High School Wind Ensemble — Springville Road Regional Library (April 22)
Gaming, LEGO, and interactive youth programs across multiple branches

These programs reflect BPL’s commitment to serving the community through accessible, engaging, and practical services.

Visit and Explore

BPL encourages residents to visit their nearest library location, attend a program, and discover resources available both in-person and online.

To view a full list of events, visit: www.cobpl.org/calendar

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

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

2026-04-17T14:02:00.000-05:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are four ways to celebrate libraries this week:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tonieboxes – Audio systems designed for children:
https://cobpl.libguides.com/c.php?g=1303511&p=10756548
Board Games – Check on what’s available at each of our libraries. Here are some games you can get at Central Library:
https://cobpl.libguides.com/c.php?g=1303511&p=10756545
Literacy, Sensory, and Educational Kits – Hands-on learning tools:
https://cobpl.libguides.com/c.php?g=1303511&p=10390518
Zoo & Vulcan Backpacks – Passes to Birmingham Zoo and Vulcan Park and Museum:
https://cobpl.libguides.com/c.php?g=1303511&p=10937863

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Passport Updates from BPL for Spring & Summer Travels 2026

2026-04-16T17:26:00.001-05:00

The flowers may be blooming, and the sun may be setting later. Those are important reminders that spring break is around the corner. Go ahead and plan a relaxing but exciting trip before the summertime heat kicks in.

As always, make sure that you have your obligatory, quintessential passport!

Apply for or renew your passport today at the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) to avoid packing any last-minute stress on your vacation.

BPL is a Passport Acceptance Facility and has many passport acceptance agents who can help you navigate the application process.

You can start your passport application process at the Central Library or the Avondale Regional Branch Library. The Springville Road Regional Branch Library no longer accepts passport applications.

Central Library's passport hours for walk-in services are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 205-226-3705 or stop by the Citizen Services Department at the Central Library to find out more.

The Avondale Branch Library offers passport application services by appointment only. Call the Avondale Library at (205) 226-4000 to reserve your spot.

Be sure to use the passport application forms that are most up to date. The following forms are also available for free on the internet. You should not pay any additional, unnecessary fees to fill out one of these documents online.

Here is a list of the documents you need to apply for your passport today:

Form DS-11

Form DS-82 (Adult passport renewal form only if issued within the past 15 years)

Birth certificate (Naturalization form or consular report of birth abroad is also acceptable.)

Driver's license

Photograph (Photograph services at Central and Avondale)

Payment for U.S. Department of State as a check or money order

Payment for Library in cash, check, or credit

Here are other documents that you might need to fill out because of special situations:

Form DS-64 (Valid passport has been lost or stolen. This document must also be submitted with a DS-11 application if the lost passport is still active.)

Form DS-5504 (Data correction or name change within 1 year or limited passport replacement)

Form DS-3053 (This statement of consent for issuing a passport to a child must be notarized and submitted with a DS-11 application.)

Form DS-5525 (This document is strictly a statement of exigent/special family circumstances.)

Form DS-86 (Statement you did not receive your U.S. passport)

Form DS-10 (This document is strictly meant for applicants if their birth certificate was issued over a year after they were born. It must also be notarized.)

Form DS-71 (This document only pertains to applicants who do not have a primary form of identification. A witness must sign this form in front of a passport agent.)

Form DS-60 (This document is meant to verify an applicant’s new name that is not evident in a court order or marriage certificate.)

Form DS-5507 (This document is required for transmitting citizenship to children who were born abroad.)

Form DS-2029 (This document primarily serves to establish a child’s citizenship in order to obtain a consular report of birth abroad. It can also accompany a DS-5507 form.)

NOTE: If you want to travel overseas, you need to account for the time it takes to receive your passport. The U.S. Department of State reported that normal processing time for passports ranges from 4-6 weeks. Expedited passports, which cost an extra $60.00, range from 2-3 weeks.

If you need to renew or apply for a passport sooner than the 2-3 week range of expedited passport processing, you can schedule an appointment at either the Atlanta Passport Agency or the New Orleans Passport Center.

You can also contact your state’s senators if you have other pressing questions, concerns, or sudden emergencies pertaining to your passport application process.

If you have been issued a special issuance passport for the military or government work, you will still need to apply for a tourist passport if you are traveling for leisure.

As for applicants who were not born in the U.S.A. or U.S. territories and do not have a consular report of birth abroad, you will need to apply for and bring your official naturalization form if you need a U.S. passport.

You must follow all the instructions on this link to obtain your naturalization form: https://www.uscis.gov/n-400.

Applicants with green cards must also include the original, physical card, including a photocopy of it, along with their DS-11 applications and naturalization forms when meeting with a passport agent.

Here are some helpful links for your travel agenda:

Lonely Planet – Best in Travel 2026

Travel + Leisure – The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026

Last Minute Spring Break Ideas 2026

10 Most Affordable Destinations to Fly to in 2026

U.S. News & World Report - Best Places to Visit in Spring for 2026

There are many luxurious hotels and resorts to check into once you arrive at your destination. However, don’t underestimate the convenience of an Airbnb either. The prices are reasonable depending on how many people are traveling together. This app also offers suggested experiences and services to make planning your trip easier.

All the hard work is done!

Check out these travel recommendations from Birmingham Public Library:

Basel, Switzerland

Imagine enjoying this view while swimming (or floating) in a river.

I recommended visiting Lucerne, Switzerland, especially during the winter season, in a previous passport blog that I wrote back in October 2024. Now, kick off your travels with a trip to Basel, Switzerland, especially during the springtime!

One of the first places that you should check out in Basel is the Rhine River. There are plenty of boat trips and ferry rides to enjoy as temperatures start to warm up. You will also get an incredible view of several landmarks throughout Basel. Don’t forget about the Rhine River cruise if you also plan on visiting other countries that this 800-mile-long river runs through such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands. If you plan on swimming and floating down the Rhine River, don’t forget to use a Wickelfisch swim bag if you want to keep your personal belongings dry.

Basel includes a few truly unique museums such as Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel, Kunstmuseum Basel, and Basler Papiermühle - Schweizerisches Museum für Papier, Schrift und Druck.

Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel is a museum that is all about toys from all over the world. There are enough dolls and teddy bears to warm any child’s heart. It is perfect for the whole family and guarantees nostalgia for all generations.

Kunstmuseum Basel is one of the quintessential art museums in not just Switzerland but all of Europe. What sets it apart from other monumental art galleries is that it is the oldest public art gallery in the world. If you were in Switzerland for just one day, please set aside a few hours to visit Kunstmuseum Basel. Its three venues will leave you wanting to learn more about art history.

Basler Papiermühle - Schweizerisches Museum für Papier, Schrift und Druck is a museum dedicated to the history of paper, printing, and calligraphy. There are interactive workshops where visitors can participate in papermaking and bookbinding. As tedious as all this might sound, this paper mill will surprise you with its commitment to this everyday craft.

Other notable activities include visiting Basel Town Hall and Tinguely Fountain. There is also a monument in Basel where you can visit a tripoint between Switzerland, France, and Germany. It is the Dreiländereck. Either a boat or a tram can take you to this location. Stroll around the Basel Zoo one afternoon too.

Take advantage of the highly convenient Basel SBB Station as you mark this city off your bucket list.

If you want to learn even more about Switzerland, I would recommend checking out the book: From Montgomery to the Matterhorn: Reflections on Life in My Two Homelands by Betty Amstutz Gerson.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

These canals will take you through the heart of Amsterdam.

If you are still in the mood for a Rhine River cruise, you can also start this adventure in Amsterdam, Netherlands, not just Basel, Switzerland.

Speaking of the Rhine River, you can choose from many Amsterdam canal cruises that will give you a worthwhile view of the city. You can book a private or shared tour, including more specific tours such as a pizza cruise or a proposal cruise. If you want to learn more about canals and houseboats, spend some time in the cozy, immersive Houseboat Museum. This experience might even convince you to live in a houseboat for a season or two.

Going on a cruise is fun, but the best way to explore Amsterdam is by riding a bicycle. It is the most popular and convenient form of transportation. Almost everyone rides bikes here. You can coast along countless bicycle highways, which are known as doorfietsroutes. These fast cycle routes are more fun to use than a standard highway, and they also connect the city with nearby neighborhoods such as Jordaan. Doorfietsroutes are designed for longer bike rides. Fietsstraten are the bicycle highways where cars are permitted as a guest next to cyclists, and the speed limits are more reduced on these streets compared to doorfietsroutes. It would be a mistake to not sign up for a bike tour throughout Amsterdam.

Just like Basel, Switzerland, Amsterdam is also known for some highly renowned museums such as the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, Our Lord in the Attic Museum, and the Rijksmuseum. Be sure to get your tickets as early as possible because these museums typically sell out weeks and even months in advance. Visiting these hallowed places will be the best and most humbling lesson about Dutch history and art.

A major reason why you should visit Amsterdam during the springtime is because of Keukenhof Gardens. It is located in Lisse, Netherlands, which is a 30-40 minute drive from Amsterdam. The window to walk through one of the largest flower gardens in the world is from March 19th to May 10th. All the tulips will take your breath away. These fields will remind you why this delicate flower is synonymous with the Netherlands.

Mark your calendar for April 27th because it is King’s Day. Celebrating King’s Day in the Netherlands is the equivalent to celebrating the Fourth of July in the U.S.A. or Bastille Day in France. This holiday commemorates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. You better believe that the Amsterdam locals get into the spirit for a day that reveres the Dutch monarchy. Everyone dresses up in bright orange clothes in honor of the House of Orange-Nassau. Boats on the canal, shops, and restaurants are also drenched in orange. It is known as Oranjegekte, which means “orange madness.” The festivities include massive street markets, boat parades, music festivals, and traditional games such as sjoelen or koekhappen.

Amsterdam also offers an abundance of fun nightclubs, especially if you are a fan of electronic dance music and techno. Some of the biggest DJs in the world such as Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, and Martin Garrix all hail from the Netherlands.

Take your obligatory photos of all the windmills. Treat yourself to a delicious stroopwafel and an appeltaart. Amsterdam is the perfect destination for a spring vacation.

Madrid, Spain

You couldn’t ask for a better sunset.

I highlighted Lisbon, Portugal in another passport blog that I wrote in February 2025. Now, it is time to prioritize Madrid, Spain!

The first thing that you should do in Madrid is visit the Royal Palace of Madrid. It would be a huge mistake to not tour the most majestic sections such as the Main Staircase, the Throne Room, the Royal Chapel, and the Gasparini Room. The painted ceilings, ornate tapestries, and opulent marble floors will stay with you long after you have learned about the Spanish Royal Family. Complete your tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid with a stroll through Sabatini Gardens.

The ultimate experience in Madrid during the spring is the San Isidro Festival. It is a spectacular fiesta that honors Saint Isidore the Laborer. Although this festival lasts for 7-10 days, its fixed date is May 15th. Since this patron saint is associated with water, people line up to drink miraculous water from the fountain at the Hermitage of San Isidro. It is a pilgrimage worth witnessing.

Plaza Mayor is another main location for dozens of concerts, zarzuela performances, traditional dancing known as the chotis, and the Procession of Giants and Bigheads. You can also enjoy these festivities at Las Vistillas Gardens and Matadero Madrid. Don’t forget to try gallinejas and entresijos along with a glass of limonada madrileña. Then, enjoy rosquillas for dessert. Your taste buds won’t regret this decision.

Don’t forget to book tickets for an epic bullfight at the Las Ventas bullring. It may be terrifying and stressful to watch a matador face off against a furious bull, but it is still considered a staple experience during the San Isidro Festival. Bullfighting season lasts from March to October.

Another extraordinary arena in Madrid to visit is the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. You can go on a tour of the whole stadium or you can watch a Real Madrid C.F. match throughout the upcoming season. The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium was also recently renovated back in 2024, and it now includes a retractable roof and pitch. Sports enthusiasts will get their money’s worth at this advanced venue.

Every Sunday in a neighborhood called La Latina, the legendary flea market, El Rastro, is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., including holidays. This is not a typical flea market; it is a massive gathering. Get there as early as possible so that the crowd does not overwhelm you. El Rastro is the perfect opportunity to get to know the locals and to make some new friends. Be sure to bring cash and support several family businesses. Whether you are shopping for antiques or not, El Rastro brings out a more personable side to Madrid.

Final Tips

It is advised that you arrive early at your closest airport due to unusually long TSA wait times.

Stay vigilant about practicing sanitary habits and be mindful of your overall health so that a sudden illness does not take away from your fun abroad.

Before traveling abroad, check for travel restrictions in any locations that you are traveling through. This includes your final destination and any other stops for connecting flights, layovers, or similar trips.

Always be aware of your surroundings and practice increased caution no matter where you choose to travel. There are several countries that you should not visit right now because of ongoing warfare. Your safety must be a top priority. Contact a nearby foreign embassy and consulate as soon as possible if you find yourself stuck in a dangerous situation.

On top of that, some countries might require additional documentation along with your passport such as a visa or an electronic travel authorization, which is particularly meant for a visit to Canada or the United Kingdom.

If you plan on traveling domestically, the deadline to obtain the STAR ID on your driver’s license was May 7th, 2025. However, there is no need to worry if you don’t have your STAR ID yet. You can use a passport book or card in place of a driver’s license without the STAR ID while flying domestically. Many DMVs are also offering appointments for a STAR ID if you haven’t gotten it yet.

Find out more about these travel destinations and others at the Birmingham Public Library and other members of the Jefferson County Library Cooperative.

Written By William Anthony | Librarian I, Citizen Services Department