CiviCRM

This workshop prepares and empowers public library staff to facilitate meaningful solar and space science programs for their patrons that build curiosity, knowledge and inspiration. Attendees will receive hands-on training on operating solar telescopes and other methods for direct and indirect solar viewing, best practices for developing and facilitating STEM programs, and how to engage with community partners and library-specific digital resource networks. Attendees will also be able to sign up for free solar eclipse glasses to distribute to their communities in advance of both eclipses! STAR Net facilitators, bringing many years of experience building the STEM capacity of public library staff, have customized the workshop for Texas public libraries. The workshop uses materials from circulating program kits and highlight best practices in using those materials but the strategies, activities and resources shared during the workshop will be useful to attendees whether they are using one of the program kits or not.

Objectives:

• 1. Build off the excitement of the 2023 and 2024 solar eclipses, and engage their patrons in solar science activities
• 2. Safely and effectively facilitate direct (e.g. solar telescope and Sunoculars) and indirect methods of safe solar viewing
• 3. Develop and facilitate exciting and interactive STEM programming at their library

Lunch will be provided.  Seating is limited to 34.  We encourage libraries to send 2 people if possible.