Goldston Public Library is excited to welcome renowned North Carolina author Kamal Bell on Monday, February 16, 2026. Bell is the founder of Sankofa Farms and author of Akeem Keeps Bees, a 2025 National Book Festival Great Reads from Great Places selection. Bell will speak about his book Akeem Keeps Bees, a children’s book inspiring young readers to explore agriculture and pollinator conservation. Young readers may pick up a free copy of Akeem Keeps Bees during the event, while supplies last. This free, family-friendly program is open to the public, and no registration is required. 

Kamal Bell is the founder of Sankofa Farms, a regenerative farm in Cedar Grove, North Carolina, dedicated to food justice, youth education, and sustainable agriculture. Through hands-on programs, he mentors the next generation of Black agricultural leaders while creating pathways for communities to access healthy, locally grown food. Bell’s work has been recognized nationally, including engagements at the White House and with the USDA, where he advocates for small and Black farmers.

This program is supported in part by North Carolina Humanities, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of North Carolina Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

For information on this program and other events at the library, call 919-898-4522 or goldston.library@chathamlibraries.org.

 Members of the media interested in attending/covering this event are asked to please contact Public Information Officer Kara Lusk in advance at 919-542-8258 or kara.lusk@chathamcountync.gov.