Residents are encouraged to call their library first for availability and can visit during normal business hours, including on weekends. There is a limit of two pairs of glasses per person while supplies last. See library locations and hours here: https://www.buffalolib.org/locations-and-hours
The BMS has reserved 10,000 pairs of glasses for distribution during the school spring break week April 1 to 7. The Museum will be closed for the eclipse on April 8 and will celebrate the lead-up to the eclipse with Eclipse-a-palooza activities from April 1-7, featuring daily themes, special guests, and hands-on activities to educate museum guests on eclipses and how to experience them safely. Entry to Eclipse-a-palooza activities is included with general museum admission and free for BMS members. Eclipse glasses will be distributed, free of charge, throughout the week while supplies last.
The BMS warns those planning to view the eclipse to do so safely. Looking directly at the Sun with the naked eye in the time leading up to and after totality could lead to vision damage or even blindness. Securing eclipse-viewing glasses from a reputable source is critical for eye safety. BMS recommends storing glasses in a safe location and checking them for damage prior to use.
The Museum and Tifft Nature Preserve, which is operated by the BMS, will be closed on April 8 for the eclipse. The BMS encourages Western New York residents who don’t need to travel to stay at or close to home for this once-in-a-generation event.
“Erie County officials are anticipating as many as one million visitors to the WNY region for the eclipse, which will lead to extremely heavy traffic in some areas,” says BMS Chief Scientist Holly Schreiber, PhD. “If you do not need to travel on April 8, we urge you to consider staying at or close to home where you can safely and comfortably view this once-in-a-generation event for our region.”
Schreiber advised parents to consider travel needs for childcare and check with their school’s plans as to whether they will be closed or teaching remotely.
For those who do need to get on the road, Schreiber said to be prepared. “Fill up your gas tank a couple days before April 8 and pack food, water, sunscreen, medications, and your eclipse viewing glasses. You may find yourself needing to stay put for some time.”
For more information on the Museum’s spring break activities and other available eclipse programming being offered before the eclipse, visit www.sciencebuff.org/eclipse.
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About Buffalo Society of Natural SciencesThe Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences manages the Buffalo Museum of Science and Tifft Nature Preserve with the mission of inspiring joyful exploration of science and nature through engaging experiences, unique resources, and exceptional staff. Located in East Buffalo, the Buffalo Museum of Science inspires multigenerational learning through interactive science studios, exhibits, programming, and its extensive collection of more than 700,000 belongings, objects, and specimens. Tifft is a 264-acre urban wetland preserve on reclaimed former industrial land in South Buffalo and serves as the Museum’s “living collection”. The Preserve offers five miles of hiking trails free of charge year-round, as well as environmental education, stewardship, and outreach. Learn more at sciencebuff.org and tifft.org.
About Buffalo & Erie County Public Library SystemBuffalo & Erie County Public Libraries have more than 3.2 million materials – books, eBooks, DVDs, and more. There are 37 libraries and two mobile book vehicles serving the community. Over 400,000 people have library cards which are free to Erie County, New York residents and to those who work and/or attend school in the county. Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries offer materials, streaming, public computers, WiFi, hundreds of onsite and virtual programs annually for all ages and links to community groups and resources in an effort to support a society of lifelong learners. Follow the library on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, Pinterest, Flickr and on our podcast All Booked Up! Information: 716-858-8900 or http://www.buffalolib.org.
