Apply by September 19 to host “Visions of the Universe: Four Centuries of Discovery”

Are Nebraska libraries good sites for a traveling exhibit designed to create awareness of astronomy’s contributions to society and culture, stimulate young people’s interest in astronomy and science, portray astronomy as a global peaceful endeavor, and nourish a scientific outlook in society? Public libraries are invited to apply to host “Visions of the Universe: Four Centuries of Discovery,” a traveling exhibition developed by the ALA Public Programs Office in cooperation with the Space Telescope Science Institute Office of Public Outreach and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory to mark the International Year of Astronomy in 2009. The exhibit will travel to 40 selected public libraries from January 2009 through December 2010. Applications are available at www.ala.org/visionsoftheuniverse. Exhibit sponsors are especially interested in receiving applications from public libraries in small towns and rural areas that have limited access to NASA resources, as well as from public libraries in larger population centers. The exhibit requires just 150-200 square feet of display space. If you think you might be able to make room for this educational and fun (temporary) addition to your library, more information information is available at the Website listed above. For questions, contact the ALA Public Programs Office at publicprograms@ala.org.