By FRANCES SMITH / Community Columnist

Two topics are highlighted nationally during April: autism and child abuse prevention. For those observing April as National Autism Month, the library has dozens of books including Caring for Autism: Practical Advice from a Parent and Physician by Ellis and Autism Adulthood: Strategies and Insights for a Fulfilling Life by Senator. For readers interested in the observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the library has books, nonfiction and fiction, including That Uh-oh Feeling: A Story about Touch by Cole and Child Abuse and Domestic Violence by Meyer. During April we have various library programs to attend for all ages.

Youth Programs:

Story Times – Tunes & Tales, Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m.; Toddler Tales, Fridays, 10:30 a.m.

April 2 An Hour with James Spann 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Everyone is invited to this special Homeschool Happening with James Spann, chief meteorologist on ABC 33/40.

April 3 Lego League 6-6:45 p.m.

April 17 Pete the Cat Book Club 6 p.m.

April 20 American Girls Club: Spring Fashion Show 4 p.m. Family can be in the audience. All kids in the audience must be with an adult.

April 23 Magic Tree House Passport to Adventure 4 p.m. Tonight on the Titanic.

April 28 National Superhero Day 3-4 p.m. Dress as your favorite superhero, meet community superheroes and enjoy other activities.

Adult Programs:

Book Signing April 2, 9:30 a.m. Bobby Joe Seales signs copies of his new book Alabaster & Siluria the Early Years: A Pictorial History.

Tai Chi for Health, Part 2, Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. starting April 4. Rachel Hickman teaches an eight-week course. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that will not slip during movement. No need to know part 1 to learn part 2. Newcomers will not be allowed after the second class. Complete the enrollment form at the circulation desk before the first class.

Computer Classes, 10 a.m. April 9, Basic Internet & Email; April 14, Microsoft Word 2013 Crash Course; April 23, Microsoft Excel 2013 Part 1.

ABC & Ds of Medicare April 9, 1 p.m.

American’s with Disabilities Act Information April 10, 6 p.m. Dan Kessler and Gwendolyn Brown of Disability Rights and Resources share information about the ADA regarding service animals, accessible parking, equal access and more. For questions or accommodation needs notify Gwendolyn Brown at gwen.brown@drradvocates.org or (205) 685-0570.

Library Book Group April 19, 7 p.m. Little Children by Tom Perrotta.

Medicare 101 April 26, 6 p.m.

Free AARP Tax Help for seniors by appointment Tuesdays and Thursdays through mid-April. Sign up at the library or call 664-6822.

Ya Ya Yarners Mondays 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information contact Carol Smith at 664-6822 or csmith@shelbycounty-al.org. The Yarners will not meet April 9.

Programs are in the meeting room. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult. Sign-up sheets are at the circulation desk.

Looking ahead to May – celebrate Star Wars on May the Fourth Be with You Day, May 4 at 4 p.m.