Welcome to
THE BIRMINGHAM & MIDLAND INSTITUTE
Established 1854
Covid-19 Update
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Monday regarding the gradual easing and road map out of lockdown restrictions and in line with Step 2 of the guidance we plan to open our Library again from Monday 12th April 10am – 2pm. All members will be required to make an appointment beforehand and will be expected to wear a mask at all times whilst in the building (unless medically exempt).
We hope that from Monday 17th May we will be able to start offering limited room hire with strict restrictions in place on capacities.
Then depending on Government advice and rulings regarding Step 4 we hope we can return to pre covid-19 business levels from Monday 21st June.
These dates are subject to change and will be guided by the Government and their updates. Please continue to use our social media channels for further information regarding the BMI.
The Institute has been at the heart of Birmingham’s cultural life for almost 170 years.
Founded by Act of Parliament in 1854 for the ‘Diffusion and Advancement of Science, Literature and Art amongst all Classes of Persons resident in Birmingham and Midland Counties’, the BMI is a membership organisation which has a thriving programme of cultural and educational activities, including a wide spectrum of arts and science lectures, exhibitions and concerts. Both members and the general public are encouraged to participate. The building is also a venue for many externally-organised events and can be booked for conferences and meetings.
The Institute also owns and runs the original Birmingham Library, founded in 1779. The Library collection is gradually growing by the regular purchase of new books, principally on the field of humanities and modern fiction.
Our Latest Twitter Feeds
- Click here to read our latest BMI member book review. Gill recommends the ever-fantastically-pulpy 'A Rage in Harle… https://t.co/lxiyNU2O2i 1 day ago
- We can't wait to be hosting your events again in our stunning city-centre historic building. While some restriction… https://t.co/xPkHKPipLr 2 days ago
- With the BMI opening daily once more, now would be a great time to become a member. Membership grants you free acce… https://t.co/gTpPC2ghek 3 days ago
The Institute is a Grade II*- listed building, with a number of rooms and theatres available for hire. By hiring a room in our building, you are also contributing to the BMI’s charitable aims; revenue raised from room hire contributes to our cultural programme.
Come and join us for workshops, day schools, recitals and more! Available for both members and none members.
The BMI is also home to the original Birmingham Library that was founded in 1779 by John Lee, a button manufacturer who lived at 115 Snow Hill. This private lending library was reorganised in 1781 by Joseph Priestley, the pioneering chemist who discovered oxygen.
