Eclipse 2024


Wright Library celebrates being in the path of (near) totality, April 8, 2024

Solar Eclipse

About the Eclipse

On Monday, April 8, 2024, people within a 124-mile-wide band in the state of Ohio will experience a total solar eclipse, and the Dayton area will have a front-row seat. 

The eclipse begins at 1:53pm and will conclude at 4:25pm. However, the pinnacle of the eclipse will happen at 3:10pm when the moon fully covers the sun. It is only at this point that one can remove their eclipse glasses to view the sun’s corona. 

Be sure to check out our section on Eclipse Safety to learn more about ways to safely view the eclipse.  

Please note, Wright Library will be closed from 2:45 – 3:45 so that staff can enjoy the eclipse in Katharine Wright Park. 


Solar eclipse safety with a pinhole viewer

Eclipse Safety

Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face, it is not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing. 

Viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.

Dayton's Channel 2 news warns: "When putting on a pair of eclipse glasses, if you see any form of light, it can be an indicator they are fake. Experts say eclipse glasses block out 99.99% of the sun’s light."

For more information, read this article from the American Astronomical Society: How Can You Tell If Your Eclipse Glasses or Handheld Solar Viewers are Safe? [AAS.org] 

Check out these alternative ways to safely view the solar eclipse: 


Solar eclipse glasses

Eclipse Glasses

How to get eclipse glasses at Wright Library

Thanks to a generous grant from The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and the Space Science Institute, Wright Library will be distributing free eclipse glasses at select eclipse-related programs while supplies last. See programs marked with 😎 under Eclipse-related Programs below.

Due to the anticipated demand for solar eclipse glasses and the library's limited supply:

  • A maximum of two pairs per household at eclipse-related programs and activities at Wright Library.
  • Eclipse glasses will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and only while supplies last at each event.
  • Attending eclipse-related programs does not guarantee you will receive eclipse glasses, due to the limited supply.
  • Oakwood City Schools and pre-schools will also distribute glasses to students and staff on behalf of Wright Library in March.

Where else to get eclipse glasses

Can't make it to any library events? Here are some other leads on free eclipse glasses. If using these resources, please be cautious to avoid counterfeit glasses. Learn more about Eclipse Safety


Solar eclipse programs. Open book with planets inside.

Eclipse-related Programs & Activities

Join us at Wright Library for these special eclipse-related programs and activities. A limited supply of eclipse glasses may be available to attendees, while supplies last, at each event; limit 2 pairs per household, please.

  • Eclipse Talk on March 28 😎
    • Learn about the Great North American solar eclipse from NASA Solar System Ambassador Kurtz Miller
  • The Big Day! Eclipse Viewing in Katharine Wright Park at Wright Library - Apr. 8 
    • Outdoor activities starting at 1:30 PM (weather permitting). The Library building will close from 2:45-3:45 PM
    • Bring your own eclipse glasses or eclipse viewer! We will not be distributing glasses at this event.
    • Bring a lawn chair or blanket if you wish.

😎 = events where eclipse glasses may be available for attendees. Limit 1-2 per household, please.