The BMI by Cat Moreira

The BMI Library 

When I was first given a tour of the Birmingham & Midland Institute’s library I felt I was in Heaven. I have volunteered here for the past three years after my lecturer at the time (and BMI vice-president) Serena Trowbridge talked about it as an opportunity for placement. I have spent several hours helping where needed, going through as many books as my little heart could desire. There have been times when I got lost reading a couple of chapters of a book I should be cataloguing, but I don’t believe anyone can blame me for it. There are piles and piles of books on every topic imaginable; if you are ever looking for an autobiography of a Victorian clown, this is your place. 

You can’t help but feel how special this library is, as its unique history is tied with Birmingham and Charles Dickens. More than that, one cannot escape the obvious affection everyone feels for this place, from the staff to the members of the Institute. As part of a new generation of readers, I have never felt anything but welcomed. The library is my favourite place to spend a few quiet hours in Birmingham, sipping on tea while handling centuries-old books, often finding curiosities along the way. 

BMI’s Threads Club 

Recently, the BMI’s Threads Club has been started for like-minded crafty enthusiasts. In its short existence, the members of this wonderful sewing circle have developed their embroidery and cross-stitching skills. Their ventures into the thread-and-needle world range from decorating pockets, trying their hand at blackwork, and keeping alive traditional Palestinian patterns. No topics are too bold when the fingers are busy: book reviews are given, the history of Birmingham is discussed, and even QAnon conspiracies are laughed at in this tight-knit group. 

Thanks to Samina and her Mary Poppins bag of sewing supplies, there are plenty of textile activities one can choose from on the Saturdays the club meets. For two hours, anyone can learn the basics or develop more advanced skills, always with the help of the other members, who are never too shy to give words of encouragement and praise. On the table, there are without fail a couple of books (or this wouldn’t be the BMI!) full of patterns to follow and how-to guides for different stitches, as well as the historical backgrounds on how distinct techniques came to be. The Threads Club is a cosy place of learning and chatting, perfectly enjoyable with tea and guaranteed good company!