By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

PELHAM – The Pelham Library has several upcoming events to kick off the new year, as several events will be free and open to the public.

Here is a list of the events in January in chronological order:

Pelham ASL (American Sign Language) Meetup  

This group will meet on Monday, Jan. 6, at 6:30 p.m. This is a social designed to bring people from the deaf and hearing worlds together and for all of us to make new friends. Anyone is welcome who has an interest in sign language from beginner to expert. We especially encourage people to come who want to have fun while socializing with all sorts of different people. Refreshments will be served.

Natural Hand Scrub Workshop

Moisturizing hand scrubs are fun and easy to make and guests are invited on Saturday, Jan. 11, at 2 p.m. for a workshop. Create your own masterpiece, using your favorite natural scents with items from the kitchen cupboard such as sugar, spice and everything nice. They will also make great gifts too. Refreshments will be served. Seating is very limited. A material fee of $7 per person will be charged and attendees must pay the material fee when signing up for this event. Please call the library at 620-6418 for more information.

Understanding Medicare Seminar

Does Medicare confuse you? Get answers at this seminar provided by Linda Reynolds, an independent insurance agent with 15 years’ experience on Tuesday, Jan. 21, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 6-7 p.m. The presentation simplifies complex issues such as the Medicare parts, enrolling and more. Hundreds age into Medicare each month in this area and it is a complex and confusing process for most individuals. Guests who attend this program will get the facts. The seminar is free and open to the public. For more information, please call the library at 620-6418.

January Book Sale

The Pelham Public Library will host a book sale in the Makerspace Room for two weeks, beginning Tuesday, Jan. 14. Come stock up on new and used books, movies, music and more. Follow the library on Facebook @pelhampubliclibraryalabama to be notified of specials and flash sales.

Free Morning ESL Classes

English as a Second Language progressing to GED class will be held every Tuesday between 9:30-12:30 p.m. and is free of charge. This class is designed for all levels of English language learners-beginning through advanced and preparation for the GED exam. This class is administered through Central Alabama Community College. For more info, call 256-378-2017.

Free Evening ESOL Classes

Adult learners who seek to learn English are invited to these classes which are held every Thursday at the Pelham Public Library from 6-7:30 p.m. Classes will be taught by a tutor trained and supported by the Literacy Council. For more information or to reserve a seat, call The Literacy Council at 205-326-1925. Childcare is not provided.

The Pelham Public Library is located at 2000 Pelham Park Blvd. For more information, visit Pelhamlibrary.com.