Due to the popularity of the Aug. 21 solar eclipse, the Bluffton Public LIbrary is making some changes to its program that afternoon.

Here's the details from the library:

The library is making the following changes to its Solar Eclipse programming (due to its extreme popularity, the possibility of overcast conditions on Monday, and for ease of planning/preparation):

The program will be held on the lower level of the library.

Fire code limits attendance to 100, so the program is currently filled. There is a waiting list to save your spot in case of cancellations for the program, and you may also place your name on this waiting list to claim your glasses on the day of the program (but you will not be able to attend the program unless notified otherwise-- you will just receive glasses).

The program will begin on the lower level at 1:00 and will last approximately 30 minutes. Prior registrants may sign-in beginning at 12:30 p.m., read and sign the required liability release form, and receive solar eclipse viewing glasses. As a reminder, anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

John George will give a talk about the eclipse and eclipse viewing safety, and then you will be released to leave the library and view the eclipse on your own.

Once the program has begun at 1, remaining eclipse glasses will be distributed to those adults on the Waiting List who have read the Eye Safety information and signed the liability release form.

At 2:00, those on the registration/waiting list that have not shown up to claim their glasses will lose their spot, and the remaining glasses will be distributed to anyone waiting onsite to pick them up (after signing the liability release form).

The peak time for the solar eclipse in our area is at approximately 2:27 pm.
The solar eclipse will be live streamed at the library, for those without glasses who would like to take part in the excitement without any danger of eye injury.