Library seeks resources ahead of Aug. 21 solar eclipse
The director of the Du Quoin Public Library is working on obtaining a large number of solar viewers ahead of the total eclipse of the sun later this year.<br /> Library Director Kristina Benson told the library board at its meeting last week that she had submitted the necessary information to be considered to receive 1,000 solar viewers from the Science-Technology Activities and Resources Library Education Network, or Star_Net. The organization, part of the Space Science Institute's National Center for Interactive Learning, provides interactive STEM exhibits, programming and training to public libraries nationwide.<br /> Du Quoin's effort is in anticipation of a large number of visitors to southern Illinois for the eclipse Aug. 21. In exchange for the viewers, the library promises to host two science-focused events leading up to the eclipse. <br /> "This seems like a wonderful focus for our summer reading program this year," Benson wrote.<br /> Also at the library, February story time will continue from 10 to 10:30 a.m. this Saturday, Feb. 25 with the theme "Polar Bears" next Monday. <br /> Also at the library, the Food for Thought Book Club will discuss "Hidden Figures" from 6 to 7 p.m. this Thursday, Feb. 23. <span class="contextualExtensionHighlight ms-font-color-themePrimary ms-border-color-themePrimary ident_1464_1550" tabindex="0">Movie night, to begin at 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, will feature the film "Groundhog Day.</span>"<br /> <span class="contextualExtensionHighlight ms-font-color-themePrimary ms-border-color-themePrimary ident_1552_1660" tabindex="0">On Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m., library staff and volunteers from the National Honor Society offer "Homework Help.</span>" Call the library for more information.<br /> Benson asked the board of trustees for permission and help to plan and hold an early summer yard sale. She would like to sell some excess library property, including some small bookcases, a magazine turnstile, a fire-proof cabinet and some "cute cube tables that aren't doing anyone any good sitting in our shed."<br /> For more information on library programs or resources, call 618-542-5045.