The Mary J Barnett Memorial Library has more than just books for patrons to check out.

Library Director Jerri Hawkins says that in the last year, they received a telescope through the Omaha Astronomical Society, and have it on hand for those who would be interested. She tells Raccoon Valley Radio she’s excited to see others use it.

“I would love to see it get checked out here on some of these nice summer days. So it is something you can take home and you and your family can enjoy the night.”

Hawkins mentions that a personal interest in the stars and telescopes helped her in deciding to apply for the telescope, and be one of a few libraries in the area that received one. The telescope also came with a guide that has tips, and some videos on how to use the telescope.