Groton Public Library, NY

From Tompkins County Whole Health:

While Tompkins County falls outside of the “zone of totality,” the safety guidance remains the same, as the impact of looking at the sun while in a partial eclipse will still be damaging to the eyes without proper safety equipment. If your eyes are exposed to the sun without the appropriate protection, it can cause “eclipse blindness,” which can temporarily or permanently damage your eyes.

By adhering to the following safety steps, we can all safely enjoy this unique event in our region.

Keep Your Eyes Protected

· Do not look directly at the sun during the eclipse. During the limited time of totality when the sun is completely covered by the moon it can be looked at with caution. However, unless you travel to view the eclipse within the “zone of totality,” in Tompkins County, we will only see a partial eclipse and the sun will not be completely covered by the moon.

· Sunglasses will NOT protect your eyes. Use International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses from a trusted source. Further information about safe viewing, including a list of eclipse glasses suppliers, can be found on the American Astronomical Society website.

· Certified eclipse glasses are available for free, while supplies last, at all Tompkins County libraries. Call or visit your local library to pick up free certified eclipse glasses and find out about upcoming eclipse-related events and activities.