Birmingham Public Library Central Branch — Attraction in Birmingham

I had been here two days earlier; walked in and did my work. I am a journalist who travels around the country reporting from street level about what I see in each city and the people I meet, and I make money off donations to my blog. I've used well over 50 libraries just in the last year. I carry a backpack--since I camp outside.

When I walked into the library today, the security guard told me he would have to search my backpack. this is the FIRST time I have ever been asked to be search by a LIBRARY. Even in much worse cities (Milwaukee, Memphis, Redding, and on and on), never has this happened before.

We are supposed to have rights when in a public place. We should not be forced to a search without warrant. We should be treated as though we are innocent unless proven to be guilty. Birmingham is a nice place, very little crime, clean streets, friendly people.

The library itself is not bad, but not overly remarkable. This search requirement ruined my day, disallowed me to do the work I needed to do, and was completely out of line. I wouldn't let them search my personal belongings, so I was not allowed to stay.

Once upon a time libraries were public places of refuge and scholarship. But the military-style policing in our society has penetrated everything. Some might say that if I had nothing to hide, I should have let them search me. But, that is the most un-American thing a citizen can submit him/herself to. An innocent person who submits to a search of their private things, is a bigger fool than a guilty person who intends to do harm with them.

We are not free. And the acquirement of knowledge is no longer available in American--without submitting to Nazi tactics. If you are a conscientious traveler and still believe in a free society, skip the Birmingham Central...

I love the downtown library! Their book store is amazingly Awesome! Excellent customer Service and large variety of books for sale. I like that they have the books in different sections. Example: children section, history section, African American heritage section and etc.

The prices are so reasonable! They always have great sales on their books.

I also love the Eastwood library, the staff there are so very friendly. You are greeted with a smile. Its very clean! Great selection of books, if they don't have the book that you need they will find it for you and have it sent to...

Stopped by here a few days ago for Passport Services and I could not have asked for a better experience. The lady who helped me was very courteous, patient, and explained the whole process in full detail. I recommended the library to some other folks to get their passports taken care of as well.

That aside, I cannot believe I've never been in this building before. This branch of the Birmingham Public Library is very nice, spacious, and full of great public resources for research, studying, and more. Use your tax dollars to their fullest and get yourself a...