Library will observe eclipse

Colfax Library staffers scan the sky in preparation for their coming eclipse program. They are, from left, Molly Overby, Nichole Kopp, Sarah Phelan, Sheri Miller and Catalina Flores.

Whitman County Library has joined more than 1,000 other libraries to participate in the "Great American Eclipse" observance Aug. 21 when the shadow of the moon will sweep across the United States in a narrow band from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. The total solar eclipse has not been seen in the United States in more than 40 years. Parts of the United States and North America will see a partial solar eclipse.

The STAR Library Education Network and its NASA@MyLibrary initiative are providing educational, hands-on and multimedia activities related to the eclipse to libraries across the nation.

“We are proud that the Whitman County Library is participating in this national program,” said Sheri Miller, Youth Services Manager. “We think people of all ages and backgrounds will find the solar eclipse to be an experience they will remember the rest of their lives.”

Residents who would like to observe the eclipse can stop at any Whitman County Library branch location and get a free pair of glasses while supply lasts.

Partners for the program include NASA, the American Library Association and many other organizations. The project was made possible through support from the NASA Science Mission Directorate, Gordan and Betty Moore Foundation, Google and the National Science Foundation.

http://www.whitco.lib.wa.us or call 509-397-4366.