Are you ready for the celestial event of the century? In just over a year from now, on August 21, 2017, the shadow of the moon will sweep across the United States from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean in a spectacle that hasn't occurred in decades. In fact, the last total solar eclipse for the United States was nearly 40 years ago, and the next total eclipse that will be visible in the continental United States will be in 2024.
The National Center for Interactive Learning (NCIL) at the Space Science Institute was recently awarded a grant for its NASA@ My Library program. Partners include NASA, the American Library Association, the Girl Scouts, SETI and many other organizations.
Now the STAR Library Education Network (STAR_Net), managed by NCIL, wants to work with your library to participate in this national event. Some fortunate libraries will be able to experience a total solar eclipse, though every library in the country will observe at least a partial eclipse. Over 900 libraries have registered to host an eclipse event for their community. The STAR_Net team invites you to join them.
Once you register your library, the STAR_Net team will let you know how to access the following valuable resources:
- Vetted multimedia for programming/promotion (including images, video, animations and artwork)
- Media template package (with a press release, PSA, community letter, and media alert)
- Private eclipse forum (for registered libraries only)
- Inclusion in special eclipse promotions (on social media, blogs, newsletters, etc.)
- Enrollment in STAR_Net’s Eclipse Newsletter (highlighting library programs, safe viewing methods, partnership building tips, upcoming eclipse webinars, etc.)
When your eclipse event is planned, you can share your press release, website link or other promotional material with the STAR_Net team to receive 50 free Solar Shades for your patrons to watch the eclipse! (Shades are available on a first come, first served basis.)
Find more information on the STAR_Net eclipse program in this printer-friendly PDF or on the 2017 Solar Eclipse website.
