AUBURN — The Auburn Public Library is hosting two events around the “Great American Eclipse” occurring on Monday, Aug. 21.

Because Maine is not in the direct path of the total eclipse, viewers in Auburn will see a “partial eclipse,” when about two-thirds of the sun will disappear behind the moon. The event will be the best eclipse viewing in Maine since 1963, and will not occur again until April, 2024.

Retired science teacher Jon Wallace will present a family-oriented eclipse program at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 18. Wallace will talk about the difference between a “solar” eclipse and a “lunar” eclipse, how to observe the eclipse, and what to expect.

He will emphasize safety and teach children how to turn a shoe box into an eclipse viewer. Weather permitting, there will be time to observe the sun to prepare for the event. The library will have safety viewing glasses to give away.

On Monday, Aug. 21, the public is welcome to gather on the back lawn of the library from 1:30 to 4 p.m. to watch the eclipse. The library will have viewing glasses to hand out (required for viewing on library property) and fun activities while waiting for “totality” at approximately 2:45.

Eclipse-viewing glasses will also be available ahead of the eclipse, provided by the Space Science Institute. The public is invited to stop by the lending desk, the reference desk, or the children’s desk to pick up a free pair.

Both programs are free and open to the public.

FMI: www.auburnpubliclibrary.org, 207-333-6640.

The Auburn Public Library’s American Girl Doll, Josephina, invites the public to join her at the library for two events celebrating the Aug. 21 “Great American Eclipse.” Free viewing glasses like Josephina’s are available at the library now and at the events.