Chamberlin Free Public Library, 46 Main St. in Greenville, will present a program on preparing for the April 8 total solar eclipse.

The program will be presented Wednesday, March 20, at 7 p.m.; Monday, March 25, at 7 p.m. and Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. People are asked to make reservations by calling the library at 603-878-1105.

The program will explain what people will need to know to safely enjoy the event.  The last time New Hampshire was in the direct path of a total solar eclipse was in 1959, and it won't happen again until 2079.  Although the path of totality lies somewhat north of Greenville, the sun will be nearly 95% covered and the duration of the eclipse will be nearly two hours and 30 minutes, starting at 2:15 p.m. and ending at 4:38 p.m.  Maximum coverage of the sun will be at 3:29 p.m.

Through a grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the library will offer a free pair of ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses to all who attend the program. On the day of the eclipse, weather permitting, the library will have several telescopes set up with safe solar equipment for all to view the eclipse.