Explore the stars with your library card

You’re invited to “explore the stars with your library card”, thanks to a generous donation from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Belleville Centre.

The group has been offering regularly scheduled talks at the Picton Branch Library covering a wide range of astronomical topics in partnership with the South Shore Joint Initiative. The group brings tremendous enthusiasm for their subject and we’re so grateful for the members for sharing their interests with the community at the library.

Starting later this month, you will be able to not only attend their talks, but also borrow a telescope from the library to take home and explore the stars yourself. The only requirement is a library membership in good standing, and attendance at a free training session the group will lead. The first of these will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. at the Picton Branch Library. You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to use and care for the Seestar S50 smart telescope, and discover tips for stargazing and spotting celestial wonders.

“Attendees are always commenting on the quality of the talks presented by the Astronomical Society,” says CEO Barbara Sweet. She is thrilled with the partnership and the new addition to the library’s collection. “We are always looking for opportunities to enhance our offerings to the community, and this new initiative will provide the chance for everyone to try a telescope and experience the wonders of the night sky first-hand.”

The telescope will join the collection of other items you can borrow from the library – snowshoes, Provincial Park passes, board games, technology, musical instruments, puzzles and more. You can even “Borrow the Internet” from your library and take home a small, portable WIFI hub that keeps you connected almost anywhere. More items are added regularly and we’re always open to suggestions – ask the staff at any branch of the library for more information or to place your request.

Another community-led series is the ongoing crochet circles organized by Emebet Belete. They next meet on Tuesday March 3 at 10:30 a.m. at the Picton Branch and Tuesday, March 17 at 10:30 a.m. at the Wellington Branch and all are welcome. It’s all part of an art project called Bridging Communities. It’s an ambitious project to cover Belleville’s downtown Upper Front Street Bridge in crochet. She’s inviting crocheters to create squares that will be sewn together to cover the entire bridge – sure to be an eye-catching vision. The meet ups at the library provide a great opportunity to meet new people, learn from each other, and contribute to a meaningful project that celebrates the art of crochet and the power of community. Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or just want to learn, you’re welcome to drop in and join the fun.