Gateway to the Universe.
Libraries are becoming more than just books! Many public libraries offer a program that allows
patrons to checkout a telescope or binoculars for FREE!!
The Concept
The library telescope program places telescopes in local public libraries instead of just schools, allowing greater general access to the scope since they can be put into circulation just as a book.Library Telescope
Where applicable, a local Club member acts as a foster parent to the scope. He or she will periodically clean and adjust the telescope, and act as a local astronomical resource to the library patrons. Additionally, a library member or student from a local school could be engaged as an apprentice astronomer to provide needed care to the scope.


The Telescope
The library telescope lending program uses a variety of telescopes including the Orion StarBlast 4.5-inch Astronomical Telescope. the Zhummell Z114, and the Bresser 5" Dobson telescope. The telescopes are easy to use, robust, and are typically modified to make them more durable and patron friendly. The telescopes are of manageable size, but have a relatively large optical tube. This means that the Moon and deep sky objects will show far more detail than one could see with the common "beginners" telescopes. They provide a large field of view that allows the object to stay in the eyepiece longer.
Launched in 2008
Public libraries and science organizations from around the globe are adopting the program.
Upcoming Events(Eastern Time/UTC + 5 hrs)
14 Feb 2023; 10:30AM - 11:30AM Library Telescope Task Force Meeting |
15 Feb 2023; 09:00PM - 09:30PM Partnering with a Library to launch a Library Telescope Program |
14 Mar 2023; 10:30AM - 11:30AM Library Telescope Task Force Meeting |
11 Apr 2023; 10:30AM - 11:30AM Library Telescope Task Force Meeting |