Library launches Space Day program Aug. 18

In honor of National Inventor's Month and the birth of Neil Armstrong, Bluffton Public Library will host a family Space Day at 2 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 18.

Special guest Dr. Eric Baumgartner, Dean of the T.J. Smull College of Engineering at Ohio Northern University, will begin the program by sharing his experiences working for the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

"JPL is the NASA center that is responsible for building spacecraft that explore the solar system. During my time at JPL, I was active in the Mars Exploration Program and contributed to the Mars Exploration Rover project that landed two rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, on the Martian surface in January 2004," Baumgartner said.

Baumgartner will then introduce the library's Space Day special feature film with a reading of the book Mars Needs Moms by Berkeley Breathed. Astronaut snacks, including moon rock salad and comet crunch, will be provided for families during the movie.

Space Day is a free program for all ages, but registration at the library is requested to ensure enough seating and snacks.

Program length is approximately two hours and attendants may bring pillows or blankets to use during the movie.

Contact the library at 419-358-5016 or Youth Services Coordinator Rikki Steingass with questions or to reserve your spot.

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