Tag Archives: eclipse

Beaufort Branch Library Announces Two Solar Eclipse Events

On August 21, 2017, millions of people across the United States will see nature’s most wondrous spectacle — a total eclipse of the Sun. Viewers in Beaufort will have the opportunity to witness up to 98 percent coverage of the sun – a partial solar eclipse.

Visit the Beaufort Branch library to celebrate and learn about this astronomical event. All program attendees will receive complimentary viewing glasses designed to protect your eyes while observing the eclipse. Eclipse glasses will also be available while supplies last from August 17th-August 21st during normal operating hours.

Event Name:  Solar Eclipse 101

Short Description of the event: Join us for an overview of the eclipse including why they happen and how you can be safe and get the most out of your eclipse viewing experience. For adults and families.

Time and Date of the Event:  Wednesday, July 26th at 5:30pm

Location of Event: Beaufort Branch Library 311 Scott St. Beaufort, SC 29902

Price of the Event: Free

Contact Information: 843-255-6458

Website: beaufortcountylibrary.org

Event Name:  Dramatic Essay Reading: Annie Dillard’s “Total Eclipse”

Short Description of the event:  In anticipation of the eclipse, please join us on Wednesday, August 16th for a dramatic reading of Pulitzer – prize-winning author Annie Dillard’s essay “Total Eclipse” as performed by professional actress Maggie Worsdale of the Traveling Literacy Theater.

Time and Date of the Event:  Wednesday, August 16th at 2:00pm

Location of Event: Beaufort Branch Library 311 Scott St. Beaufort, SC 29902

Price of the Event: Free

Contact Information: 843-255-6458

Website: beaufortcountylibrary.org

Writer Annie Dillard viewed on February 26, 1979, a total eclipse from the Yakima Valley in central Washington State. She described her impressions of the eclipse in an essay, “Total Eclipse.” In this piece Dillard describes a nearly overwhelming emotional experience as suggested in this quotation: “It materialized out of thin air – black, and flat, and sliding, outlined in flame. The heart screeched. The meaning of the sight overwhelmed its fascination. It obliterated meaning itself.” This essay was selected for inclusion in The Best American Essays of the 20th Century. (2000) 

Professional actress and producer of Traveling Literary Theater, Maggie Worsdale, will dramatically read Annie Dillard’s essay. Maggie is a native of New Jersey and has recently moved to the Charleston area. She has been professionally acting, singing, and producing for over 25 years.