What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is when the moon crosses between the earth and the sun, blocking some of the sun and making it look like a bite was taken out of it. A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow on the earth.
While the sun is far larger than the moon, it is also further away, making them seem the same size and allowing the moon to completely block out the sun’s light under the perfect circumstances, but the shadow that the moon casts is extremely small, only about 50 miles wide.
What is happening in August?
We have the perfect circumstances.
For the first time since 1979, the mainland United States is directly in the path of totality (when the sun is completely covered by the moon) and we here in Logan County have a world-class seat. On August 21, the moon’s shadow will cross the United States, from Oregon to South Carolina with the longest coverage only 35 miles west of here in Hopkinsville with a total eclipse time of 2 minutes and 40 seconds. Everyone in the US will be able to see the Sun partially blocked, but only those of us in the path of totality will see the stars in the day time.
Why should I watch at the library?
We have partnered with the Kentucky Science Center to bring you fun events and learning all day leading up to the big event. Since the Sun will be partially eclipsed for over an hour before being completely blocked, you must have eclipse glasses to look at it, which we will be providing while supplies last. We will also be in shadow for 2 minutes and 27 seconds, so if you will be north of Russellville, you are highly encouraged to join us; you’ll have a longer viewing time that way.
Best of all? Everything is free on a first come, first served basis.
Doors to the building will open at 7am. Get here early for parking.
Want to know where the eclipse falls on YOUR house? Click here for an interactive eclipse map.
Are you an educator? Click here to visit NASA’s education resources page
Looking to rent the perfect space to view the eclipse? Click here to find all local events, including rental information.
Current Schedule of Events
Central Timezone
7:00 AM Library lobby opens
9:00 AM Crafts and activities begin
10:00 AM Overflow parking bus pickup begins
10:30 AM Stories with Thomas Freese
11:57 AM Beginning of eclipse
12:00 PM Overflow parking buses stop for eclipse
1:26 PM Sun totally eclipsed
1:28 PM End of totality
2:00 PM Overflow parking buses resume
2:52 PM End of eclipse
Rules and disclaimers
- No pets
- No alcohol or drugs
- No smoking
- Children under the age of 8 MUST be with a parent at all times
- You MUST wear solar glasses when viewing the partially eclipsed Sun. The library is not responsible for any damage received from viewing the Sun while unprotected.
- You are responsible for any belongings you bring with you. The library is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. As such, we would highly recommend only bringing items you could carry with you all day, particularly if you are not with a group.
- All materials are available on a first come, first served basis. We will do our best to provide solar glasses and sunscreen to all attendees, but we highly recommend bringing your own to guarantee that you have access.
Tips
- While there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance, it will be August and traffic will likely be bad as our small town handles the influx of people. Consider packing a lunch.
- Leave plenty of time. Again, traffic will be bad and you want to guarantee a parking space.
- Bring bug spray.
- Bring a blanket. The Sun will be very high during the total eclipse, the ability to lean back will likely be appreciated.
- IGA will be providing overflow parking within walking distance.
- Additional overflow parking will be available at the Logan County Extension Office, 255 John Paul Road with a bus shuttling people to and from the lot.
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