The Launch of the first Library Telescope Project in Canada, by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, was held at Sheep River Library last Friday, Oct.14th.  Katherine Peterson presented the telescope to the library and explained how the concept started in New Hampshire several years ago.  Subsequently, many libraries across the States have adopted this learning project.
 
Having been recognized provincially for innovative programming and the SRL mission of being a lifelong learning centre for the community, the society  thought this project would be a perfect fit for the Diamond Valley communities.
 
Following a demonstration to a large crowd on how to use the telescope, a talk was given on “the Night Sky”.  Several telescopes were set up in the park so that attendees could see various stars.  Many of the youth in attendance were pretty excited to see Jupiter with three moons on one side and one on the other.  Line-ups at the various telescopes lasted for quite some time and many families have signed up to borrow the telescope.  The lending period is one week.
 
Astronomy enthusiasts might want to take out some of the new books related to this subject. [See the Featured Items section on the SRL Webpage]
 
Members of the Royal Astronomical Society will be present during the afternoon of the next PD Day, October 28th.  They will be demonstrating use of the telescope again, and will be giving a talk on what to see  at night in our November sky.  Sign up at the library to attend this afternoon talk which starts at 1pm.  (Come early for the Friday Pharmasave Movie starting at 10am.)
 
Thanks to Holly for arranging for great radio coverage on this amazing project.  
So — tune in to The Calgary Eyeopener, CBC Radio One — 1010 on the AM dial, 99.1 on the FM dial. The program runs from 6 until 8:30 in the morning.