Our library has delved into deep space, and our blog, collections and exhibits reflect that stellar journey!
While our Experience the Cosmos: The James Webb Space Telescope Tactile Exhibit is open through December 21st, we know that making a trip to our library isn’t always possible for patrons living across the state. Whether you live too far away or simply prefer exploring from the comfort of home, we have plenty of ways for you to experience the wonders of the universe with us from afar.
Here is how you can launch your own space adventure right from home:
1. Explore Curated Booklists for All Ages
We’ve put together specialized space-themed booklists divided into four categories: Adult Nonfiction, Adult Fiction, Juvenile Nonfiction, and Juvenile Fiction.
- Browse our online catalog collections here: Online Catalog. Booklists are pinned on the right-hand side of the catalog under “Collection Hightlights”.
- Looking for audiobooks? We’ve also added fantastic space titles to our monthly D-List! Check out the current selections here: D-List This Month
2. Subscribe to the Special Edition Peek-A-Box
If you haven’t signed up for Peek-A-Box yet, now is the time! We’ve released a special edition box created in conjunction with the exhibit. Subscribe today to receive a one-time box filled with space goodies, snacks, and a specially curated cartridge of space-themed books. (Note: Peek-A-Box is designed for Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled patrons 18 years and older.)
3. Check Out Tactile 3D Kits
We’ve added brand-new 3D Kits to our collection to bring the cosmos to your fingertips! The first kit available is Space Tools, with more exciting kits rolling out over the next couple of months. Give us a call or check our catalog to add one to your queue.
View Available Kits Here
4. Watch Our 10-Part YouTube Series
Can’t get enough space content? Keep an eye out for our upcoming 10-part YouTube series dedicated to the exhibit, featuring deep dives into astronomy, the James Webb Space Telescope, and accessible space exploration.
Join Our Space Quest: Support the Friends of the Library!
Would you like to support the library while showing off your cosmic style? We’ve launched two exclusive t-shirt designs! All proceeds from the sales directly benefit the Friends of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, who generously fund our library programs, equipment, special projects, and 3D printers.
Choose from two stellar designs:
- Option 1: A navy blue shirt with light purple lettering. On the front it has Reach for the Stars in print with a large shooting star and in the tail of the star it says Reach for the Stars in braille. The back of the shirt says, Reach for the Stars in braille and includes the logos of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled and the South Central Iowa Region Governor’s STEM Council.
- Option 2: A heather lavender shirt with dark purple lettering. It has the words Reach for the Stars in print around the graphic of a stick man figure with a white cane wearing an astronaut helmet. The stick man figure appears to be walking in space. Underneath the graphic is Reach for the Stars in braille. The back of the shirt says, Reach for the Stars in braille and includes the logo of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled.
No matter where you are in Iowa, the universe is within your reach. Happy exploring!
