Phoenix libraries hosting program to learn about solar eclipse

PHOENIX — It’s a phenomenon not often seen: On Monday, Aug. 21, the country will be able to see an eclipse of the sun.

This rare event, where the moon completely covers the sun, will be seen across the U.S. It will be a total eclipse in some places and partial in others, depending on the viewer’s location.

In advance of the solar eclipse, the Phoenix Public Library is holding educational programs geared to both adults and children this weekend.

“It involves a lot of education about what exactly the eclipse is, and our relationship as a planet to the sun and the moon,” said Lee Franklin, the community relations manager for the Phoenix Public Library.

“There will also be safety tips on how to best and safely view the eclipse,” Franklin said.

About eight of the Phoenix Public Library’s 17 branches had classes scheduled. Most are on Saturday, Franklin said, with a few on Sunday, and one, so far, on Monday.

The classes are free and do not require registering in advance.

She said a limited number of safety viewing glasses should be available at the library branches.

“Some of the programs at a couple of our locations are going to include creating a pinhole viewer as well as having those safety viewing glasses available,” Franklin said.

“It’s intended for families with an emphasis on making the experience fun and educational and something to remember.”