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Several events will take place at the Demopolis Public Library in February, with two of the four events celebrating Black History Month.

Ray Orlando Williams, IPF World Classic Champion and Demopolis native, will kick things off in honor of Black History Month by giving a motivational speech on Feb. 12 at 3:30 p.m.

“There’s probably going to be over 100 people here to hear him,” DPL Director Elizabeth Ledyard said.

A presentation on the college saving account CollegeCounts 529 Fund will be given on Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. According to CollegeCounts 529’s website, the account offers tax benefits, several ways to invest, no minimum contribution and more.

Ledyard said that while the events are open to all ages, CollegeCounts 529 is mostly geared towards parents.

Alabama historian and video producer Jim Phillips will also share some artifacts and videos about “A Look at the Development and Early Days of Alabama Statehood: The Story of Early Alabama Pioneer Struggles, Forgotten Villages and Roads” at the library on Feb. 21 at 5:30 p.m.

A week later, Freddie “Bear” Mitchell, author of “The Lost Foot Soldiers” and another Demopolis native, will close out February with another celebration of Black History Month on Feb. 28 at 3:30 p.m. at his book signing.

“They’re all going to be really great. We’re really excited about all of them,” Ledyard said.

As another way to honor Black History Month, the library is decorated with banners, photos and book displays of famous African American historic figures.

Ledyard also reminded that children’s Story Time takes place 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday.

“We try to do a variety of things to serve all ages,” Ledyard said. She also said that she is actively working towards introducing more teen-centric programs at the library.

Additionally, with tax season taking off, DPL will be the site of monthly free tax services on Feb. 11, March 11 and April 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact Vanessa Barley at 289-6423.

(This article originally appeared in the Wednesday, February 6 issue of the Demopolis Times.)