Dakota County libraries are hosting events to celebrate Black History Month. For more information about the events below, go to www.dakotacounty.us/library and search for "Black History Month."
Stories from Civil Rights History, Then and Now
What: Hear a discussion of author Susan Follett's debut novel, "The Fog Machine."Speakers include Follett, Freedom Summer participant Gail Falk and Metro State assistant professor Jason Sole.
When: 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Feb. 17
Where: Rosemount Community Center, 13885 S. Robert Trail
African drumming workshop
What: An artist from Steppingstone Theatre teaches history of drumming and drumming techniques to kids ages 9 to 17.
When: 11 a.m. to noon on Feb. 21
Where: Inver Glen Library, 8098 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights
Tracks of New Thinking
What: Anita Ruth and T. Mychael Rambo discuss African-American poetry and music.
When: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 21.
Where: Burnhaven Library, 1101 W. County Road 42, Burnsville
Lila Ammons: Voices of Influence
What: Learn about jazz through the work of Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan and Ernestine Anderson, as performed by Lila Ammons.
When: 7 to 8 p.m. on Feb. 24
Where: Inver Glen Library, 8098 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights
Liz Rolfsmeier