It’s the once in a lifetime event everyone is talking about. On Monday, August 21, all of North America will be treated to an eclipse of the sun, the first time in 99 years that a total solar eclipse will be seen coast-to-coast. A truly spectacular sight, on Monday the moon will cross in front of the sun, leaving a 70-mile-wide strip of darkness from Oregon, across 14 states to South Carolina. According to experts, in Florida a full eclipse will not be visible, however a respectable partial eclipse, with 80 % of the sun being covered, can be expected.

While I would like to encourage everyone to head out Monday night and enjoy this unique experience, it is incredibly important to stay safe at the same time! Staring straight at a solar eclipse without eye protection can burn the cornea and retina of the eye, possibly causing permanent damage. Furthermore, sunglasses do not offer enough protection, special glasses made especially for such an occasion are necessary. Thankfully, several libraries in Broward County will be hosting events that not only educate the public about this incredible natural phenomenon, but also distribute free glasses for the solar eclipse. Here are 9 events worth checking out for the best eclipse experience!

Saturday, Aug. 19
The African-American Research Library & Cultural Center, at 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., in Fort Lauderdale was hosting a Pre-Solar Eclipse Celebration: Make An Edible Model of the Sun, from 1 to 2 p.m. For more information, call 954-357-6282.

Sunday, Aug. 20
The Stirling Road Library at 3151 Stirling Rd., in Hollywood, is hosting a Pre-Solar Eclipse Party, from 12 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 954-357-7550.

Four events on the day of the solar eclipse: Monday, Aug. 21
The Southwest Regional Library at 16835 Sheridan St., in Pembroke Pines is hosting a special event with access to telescopes, the NASA stream of the total eclipse and arts and crafts projects from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 954-357-6580.

The Main Library at 100 S. Andrews Ave., in Fort Lauderdale will be hosting the Let's View the Solar Eclipse event from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 954-357-7444.

The African-American Research Library & Cultural Center, at 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., in Fort Lauderdale will host a special event from 12:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 954-357-6282.

The North Lauderdale Saraniero Library, 6901 Kimberly Blvd., in North Lauderdale is hosting an education event from 2 to 3 p.m. For more information, call 954-357-6660.