Highland County Public Library Offers Eclipse Glasses to All Residents and Visitors

Monterey might not be in the path of totality for the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse, but there will still be quite a show in the sky. The upcoming eclipse is being touted as the most significant in the United States in more than six years and the last in the country for another two decades.

And the Highland County Public Library wants to make sure you’re able to see the full show safely.

Starting this week, eclipse glasses are available for pickup at the library. And it’s just in time, too, as many in the valley have already run out of glasses for the April 8 event. But, thanks to the Mission2Mars program with the Green Bank Observatory in partnership with The Franklin Institute and StarNet and Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries, the Highland County Public Library is able to provide glasses for the community.

The library will also offer events both leading up to and the day of the eclipse. Highland County Public Schools have an early release that day, so families are encouraged to come to a solar eclipse watch party at the library to enjoy the day with friends. 

Mark your calendars for what’s to come:

April 2-8 is International Dark Sky week! Celebrate at the library with an after school program based on dark sky activities. This is a part of our regular after school programming, and students in grades K-5 can sign up to ride the bus to the library to attend on Tuesday April 2 from 3:20 to 4:15 p.m.

Continue the celebration by attending the star party at Starlight Meadows, 1241 Burnsville Road Williamsville, VA 24487, on the clearest night among Friday, April 5, Saturday, April 6, or Sunday April 7. The exact date, depending on the weather forecast, will be announced Thursday on WVLS radio, highlandcounty.org, and the Recorder Facebook page. Bring your telescopes and binoculars, a lawn chair, dress warmly, and prepare to be awed by the beauty of Highland County’s Dark Sky.

April 8 from 1:30-4:30 the library will offer a variety of activities during all phases of the eclipse. This will include a live-stream from NASA, learning activities that incorporate the movement of the sun and moon, a snack, and creative ways to take in the eclipse using all of your senses. Children under 12 must attend with a caregiver. 

While the ultimate goal for space lovers is to be in the path of totality, Monterey’s location is among the best places outside the path to be on the date of the eclipse. Our spot nestled under a big sky in the shadow of the Green Bank Observatory is unique and provides many opportunities for those who love to observe the sky, both at night and during the day. 

For more information on these events, email programs@highlandlibrary.com and make sure you’re following the library’s facebook page for announcements. And don’t forget to stop by for your glasses today. You don’t want to miss out!