PARSIPPANY-TROY HILLS — Approximately 400 people viewed the solar eclipse by watching a NASA live-stream at the Parsippany Library. The staff had color sheets for the children and a special display of children’s books and tapes. We distributed milky way bars donated by ShopRite in Parsippany. Mayor James Barberio stopped in to watch the live-stream and spent time talking with our young budding scientists.
Our staff felt that the day would be the culmination of an entire summer of science programs, and they were right!
People took a break from the live streaming to gather on the front patio area of the main Library. Those present shared the special glasses, used a mirror, white pin-holed paper, cereal boxes and a colander to follow the NASA viewing instructions. The good will and excitement felt almost overwhelming. All ages participated in the event and two older gentlemen as they left the Library thanked us for this once in a lifetime experience.
At the Lake Hiawatha branch , the day began with an eclipse storytime. Approximately 30 families came to the storytime and children’s Librarian, Karen O’Malley used models of the earth, sun and moon to explain what would happen during the total eclipse. One of the parents remarked to a staff member, “Ok, now I get it!”.
Library Director, Jayne Beline, was so thrilled by the planning and professionalism of her staff. Even when the Library ran out of glasses, the staff reassured people by sharing ideas about what other devices they could use, websites to check and inviting them to the live stream. Ms. Beline said” People will remember where they were when this event happened; they were at the Library!”
