Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL) Program for NJ Libraries

Originally published on August 15, 2023

With funding from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Space Science Institute, through its Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL) program has provided the NJ State Library (NJSL) with solar science kits, and information and activities to share with public libraries for their library patrons.

NJSL is circulating two solar eclipse activities for libraries (SEAL) kits. We have 4 kits in total: 2 of each type of kits.

Borrow a kit

Public libraries can borrow one of the kits for one week.

You must come to the NJ State Library in-person to pick up the kit and have a vehicle large enough to fit the kit.
A multi-generational kit that contains a solar telescope and sunoculars, with accompanying science activities.
The multi-generational kit is 44” x 20” x 17”.
A younger audience kit* that includes a sunspotter and sunoculars with accompanying science activities.
The youth audiences kit* is 30.5” x 20” x 17”.
Each kit weighs 40-50 pounds.

*Note: While the kit is designed for younger audiences, the younger audience kit may be used for all age groups.

Register for a kit

While staff at NJSL will seek to honor requested weeks for programming, we cannot guarantee your week request will be available. NJSL will email you more information about using the kits to your library when we confirm your requested week.

Click here to register to request a kit.

The Science Institute’s SEAL team has also developed a guide for public libraries that contains ideas and resources for solar eclipse science and viewing. STAR NET has a blog with information for getting started using the solar eclipse resources and a short How-To-Video on how to set up and operate the solar telescope. They also have a clearinghouse with STEM activities for public libraries. Access more solar eclipse activities here.