More than two million pairs of eclipse glasses are being distributed free through public libraries for the eclipse of the Sun taking place on August 21, 2017. About 4,500 public libraries have received a package of free safe-viewing glasses, plus a 24-page information booklet on how best to do public outreach about the eclipse.

The project is supported by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, with additional help from Google. The project was conceived by three astronomers, Andrew Fraknoi (Foothill College), Dennis Schatz (Pacific Science Center), and Douglas Duncan (University of Colorado.) They brought the idea to Paul Dusenbery at the Space Science Institute, which has the STARNet network of libraries: http://www.starnetlibraries.org/2017eclipse/

You can see an interactive map of participating libraries at that site. The eclipse information booklet, with clear non-technical background information, safe observing techniques, and suggestions for how libraries can find outreach helpers, can be downloaded free by anyone at:

http://www.starnetlibraries.org/EclipseGuide/

Astronomers, astronomy hobbyists, and science teachers are needed to partner with libraries in their own communities, helping to put on eclipse outreach events in the weeks before the eclipse. Please contact your library and volunteer.