Public Libraries in Alabama
United States
Public Libraries in Alabama
Find public libraries across Alabama — hours, addresses, digital resources and free programs near you.
17
Cities Covered
20
Libraries Listed
Free
Library Cards
Alabama's public libraries are coordinated by the Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) and serve communities across the state. This directory covers 17 cities including Birmingham, Mountain Brook, Pelham, Alabaster, Troy, Fort Payne, Jacksonville — with hours, addresses, phone numbers, and the free digital services available to every Alabama resident.
Browse Libraries by City
⭐ Featured Library
North Shelby Library
One of the leading public libraries in Alabama, serving the local community with books, digital resources, programs and free Wi-Fi.
About Public Libraries in Alabama
Alabama has a strong network of public libraries serving communities of all sizes, from Birmingham and its suburbs to small towns across the state. Coordinated by the Alabama Public Library Service, these libraries provide free access to books, digital resources, broadband internet, educational programs, and community gathering spaces for all residents.
Most Alabama public libraries offer free library cards to state residents and participate in statewide digital library programs, giving cardholders access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming films from home using apps like Libby (OverDrive).
Use the city directory above to find your nearest public library in Alabama, including current hours, contact information, and details on available services and programs.
📚 What Alabama Libraries Offer
- 📖 Books, DVDs, audiobooks & magazines
- 💻 Digital eBooks & audiobooks (Libby / OverDrive)
- 🗂️ Alabama Virtual Library — AVL (free statewide)
- 🎬 Streaming films (Kanopy or Hoopla)
- 📡 Free Wi-Fi & public computers
- 👶 Children’s storytimes & programs
- 🎓 Adult learning & literacy programs
- 📚 Interlibrary loan network
🗺️ Quick Facts
| Cities covered | 17 |
| Libraries listed | 20 |
| Digital platform | Libby / OverDrive |
| Research databases | Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) |
| Streaming | Kanopy / Hoopla |
| Library card cost | Free for residents |
Free Digital Resources
📚 Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) — Free for Every Alabamian
The Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) is a state-funded service that gives every Alabama resident, student, and teacher free 24/7 online access to premier research databases, magazines, newspapers, encyclopedias, and eBooks — from any public library, school, or home computer.
Access is free for all Alabama residents; most connections in the state are recognized automatically, or you can use a free AVL account. Ask any library listed above to get connected.
Frequently Asked Questions