Around 200 out of about 1500 eclipse glasses were prepared by staff at the Peabody Institute Library solely for the viewing party the day of, but they were gone half an hour before the viewing party even started. This speaks to the event’s popularity, as the courtyard at the library’s entrance was packed with people of all ages, and from different areas including Salem to view the phenomenon that will next occur in 2044.
Peabody resident Michele Evans would’ve still been able to witness the eclipse if she still lived in her previous home in Texas before she recently moved last fall, but it would “not have been as good as here.”
“It’s very exciting to see it,” Evans said. “It’s just nice that it’s a group activity, and it’s special.”
Senior Librarian Amory Thomas prepared eclipse-themed snacks like Cosmic Brownies, Capri Suns, Sun Chips, and SunnyD for the event. They also played theme-appropriate songs such as “Total Eclipse of the Heart” and “Supermassive Black Hole.” Along with her colleague Gabi Toth, Amory said that they are impressed by the turnout.
“We planned for about 150 people,” Thomas said. “It’s really great to see everyone in the community coming together. People were here hours even before we set up and they just talk to each other and hang out.”
Angie Saulnier of Salem commended the library’s efforts to give away free glasses.
“I really appreciate that they’re doing it for us,” Saulnuer said. “I know lots of places are trying to sell them for lots of money but as long as you got here on time, you were able to get a free pair.”
