FLORENCE — Nancy Sanford said she and other employees at Florence-Lauderdale Public Library talked about the possibility of hosting a self-defense class, but after recent events, they felt now was a good time.

“We contacted the police and they were more than willing to participate with us in this,” said Sanford, the library director.

In the last few weeks, sexual assaults have been reported at Summit Ridge Apartments and the University of North Alabama parking deck.

Because of a limited number of spaces, the course will be open to the first 20 who register.

“This is another way to respond to the concerns of the community,” Florence Police Chief Ron Tyler said.

Florence police Lt. Ken Lester said Sgt. Hal Howard, Sgt. Shane Blaylock and officer Dustin Key will be teaching the classes, which will consist of basic self-defense lessons.

“Each one has a little different type of training that will be beneficial to those attending the class,” Lester said.

Sanford said if there is a lot of interest in the class, the library is willing to host more classes.