JEFFERSON COUNTY LIBRARY COOPERATIVE

I want to encourage any and all students who have not yet discovered this area's really excellent public library system to visit a local public library and see for themselves all it has to offer.

The Jefferson County Library Cooperative consists of 21 libraries, at least two of which--Vestavia and Homewood--are quite close to Samford. The Hoover Public Library, on Highway 31, is also very drive-able. You can see a full list of libraries, along with hours and links to each library's home page, here.

You'll be interested to know that the Vestavia Library is in the process of moving to a brand-new location in a newly-built library building. You can see architect's renderings of the building here, and a video about the planning of this "library in the forest" here. One of the most noteworthy elements in the building of this library has been the commitment to environmental best practices. The grounds are also laced with hiking trails, and includes a tree-house reading room (!), arboretum, stream exploration station, and outdoor program space for botanical clubs, scout troops, and other educational activities. It is really beautiful and I can't wait to visit it in person.

In the meantime, I encourage you to visit the Hoover Public Library or the Homewood Public Library. Take a copy of photo ID and a utility bill or some form of mail that contains your Birmingham/Homewood address, and sign up for a library card!