Public library helps Champaign gear up for solar eclipse
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — People across Central Illinois are gearing up for Monday’s eclipse, and we’ll get a pretty good view. Places like the Champaign Public Library are getting everyone ready.
Scientists said it’s the last solar event of its kind for many years, and it’s less than 24 hours away. Where people are planning to watch the event is a bit of a mixed bag. Some are planning on heading south to catch a glimpse of totality. Others won’t be able to travel far, but they say that’s okay.
No matter if you’re an amateur or hardcore space fan, you’re bound to catch a glimpse of history.
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Eclipse glasses are everywhere lately, from grocery stores to sites online, but those can come at a price. The library’s taking some anxiety out of people’s eclipse plans by offering free pairs.
Elena Gomez got hers, now she’s ready for the rare celestial event — even if she won’t be able to see totality.
“We’re probably not going to see it here, but I should probably get my butt to where it’s going to be great,” Gomez said. “But I’ve got to work.”
Librarians are having a watch party, complete with a DJ and even more free glasses. It’s something they’ve had in the works for quite some time.
“Try 2017 when the other eclipse happened,” said Champaign Public Library’s Susan Winkler. “We knew at that point in time that there was going to be another eclipse.”
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Alex Deguzman waited in the long line to pick up a pair. He said this time, he’ll be ready.
“I missed the last one in 2017 because I think I overslept it,” he said. “And so, this time I don’t really want to miss it.”
Not everybody came to the library for an eclipse handout. Natalie White is here for the books.
She said she’s burnt out on eclipse talk and needs to study.
“Over the past week, I’ve felt enough of the eclipse that I’m just like, ‘Okay, I know it’s here,’” she said. “I don’t need to watch it.”
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NASA scientists said the next solar eclipse to come through the state is in 75 years. The next one to pass over Central Illinois won’t be until 2153.
“Okay, maybe I will,” White said. “I’m easily persuaded.”
For those who can’t travel closer to the path of totality, people nearby will still be able to see a good show.
“Sometimes things are so big that you just can’t feel them,” Gomez said. “Yeah, that’s heavy.”
In Champaign, the eclipse will near its maximum coverage at around 2:05 p.m. The library’s event will start at 1:30 p.m. on Monday afternoon. For a list of other viewing parties in the area, you can head here.
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