Group discussion in a library setting — A student, Gregory, reads to attendees of the ribbon cutting for the Library in the Woods at Glenwood. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

When Birmingham-Southern College (BSC) closed its doors, it left behind a rich legacy of learning. Now, that legacy is living on in a peaceful, wooded corner of Birmingham.

Glenwood recently celebrated the grand opening of The Library in the Woods, a brand-new resource for students, teachers and families. The project was made possible by a massive donation of more than 4,000 books from the former Birmingham-Southern College campus and Primrose School at Liberty Park in Vestavia Hills.

A gift from Birmingham-Southern College

Class of 2026 Samford students and former Birmingham-Southern College students celebrate their upcoming graduation. (Samford University)

For Amelia Spencer, Glenwood’s Director of Early Childhood and Special Education, the new library is a dream come true that “fell in their lap.”

After the closure of BSC, Vice President For Advancement and Communication Virginia Gilbert Loftin reached out to see if Glenwood could use any of the items left on campus. When Spencer and her team explored the former college library, they found a treasure trove of children’s and young adult literature.

“We went over and took a look, and we found so many things that we could use. As a nonprofit, that is always what you’re trying to do, is find things that we need that maybe we wouldn’t have paid for…

“We were able to take those books and put them in our own library where individuals can come and walk in and check out a book anytime.”
Amelia Spencer, Glenwood’s Director of Early Childhood and Special Education

Seeing themselves in the pages

Wooden cabin with red ribbons outside — The Library in the Woods is located next to Glenwood’s kindergarten. (Mary Helene Hall / Bham Now)

The Library in the Woods isn’t just a building; it’s a space designed for inclusion. A major focus of the collection is representation, featuring stories that highlight characters with exceptionalities and disabilities.

For the students at Glenwood, a nonprofit dedicated to serving those with autism and behavioral health needs, having access to books where they can see themselves reflected is vital.

“The collection reflects the richness of our community, offering stories that include characters with exceptionalities so every reader can see themselves, feel valued and know they belong within the pages.”
Amelia Spencer, Glenwood’s Director of Early Childhood and Special Education

More than a school library

The new library serves as a hub for the entire Glenwood community, including:

Students: A peaceful setting to discover a love for reading
Teachers: A resource center for educational tools and curriculum
Parents: Access to books and materials regarding diverse needs and family support
Staff: A collection of adult and young adult fiction for the whole Glenwood team to enjoy

The grand opening on Friday, May 8 was a community celebration, complete with a ribbon cutting and a very special first “read-aloud.” Gregory, a Glenwood student, kicked off the library’s history by performing a book he had completely memorized for the crowd.

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