Learn about search for other planets at Gail Borden Library program
This year's summer reading challenge continues with "Looking for Earth Elsewhere" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 18, at the Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.
Astronomers have found well over 5,000 planets around other stars. Are any like Earth? Adler Planetarium educator Michelle Nichols will highlight the search for planets around other stars.
"Mission: Read" continues to July 30. Reading logs are available for all ages and are at the main library or Rakow Branch or online at www.gailborden.info/space.
On Sunday, May 22, Those Were the Days Radio Players West will present "War of the Worlds" at 2 p.m. Experience how Orson Welles caused panic in the nation broadcasting "War of the Worlds" written by Howard E. Koch. This show is from the original 1938 script with live sound effects and original music. Produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc. (www.playscripts.com)
On Wednesday, May 25, "The War of the Worlds" book discussion will begin at 7 p.m. Join Librarian Tish Calhamer for an enriching discussion along with your fellow readers.
"The Science of The Martian" will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 2. The movie "The Martian" incorporated major input from NASA and Mars exploration scientists to bring realism to the movie.
What did the movie get right, or wrong? Adler Planetarium educator Michelle Nichols will bring you to the Red Planet and highlight technological advancements that you may see in future Mars expeditions.
Read all summer, earn prizes. Turn in your completed reading log at the Main Library or Rakow Branch from July 1 to July 30. Prizes will include:
• Choice of a paperback book or a mini-bundle of comic books (while supplies last).
• Pass to swim free one time at Wing Park Pool or Lords Park Pool from Aug. 1 to 14.
• Coupon from a local business.
• Two free ride passes or a reduced price unlimited ride wristband good at the Elgin carnival on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 5 to 9 p.m.
• Family Overnight Adventure Grand Prize. Families that finish the summer reading program may request an entry form into a special drawing by visiting the main library or Rakow Branch. The prize is an overnight stay in downtown Chicago including transportation, hotel, free admission to the Adler Planetarium and food vouchers for a family of five. One entry per family.
In "Discover Space: A Cosmic Journey," learn about the search for planets beyond our Solar System, asteroids and comets, Mars exploration and more. This free exhibit through July 5 offers hands-on activities such as the Solar System Weather Report Station and Discover Space Quiz Show.
NASA items on display in "Journey to Space" at the library include a moon rock, space shuttle model and more. A Lunar Excursion Module replica from set design and prop company Global Effects and used in the movie "Apollo 18" is also on display. More space fun includes a StarLab traveling planetarium and photo ops.
For information about the Mission Read Summer Reading Challenge and programs, go to www.gailborden.info/space.