Explore the Universe Through Your Community
The Library Telescope Program helps communities expand access to astronomy through telescope lending, training, volunteer engagement, and public outreach.
Photo courtesy of St. Louis County Library, St. Louis, MO.
Making Astronomy More Accessible
The Library Telescope Program helps communities create sustainable astronomy access through telescope lending, training, volunteer engagement, and public outreach.
Telescope Access
Borrow telescopes through participating libraries and community programs.
Learning Resources
Access beginner-friendly videos, guides, manuals, and observing resources.
Community Engagement
Libraries, volunteers, and astronomy organizations help communities explore the night sky.
Sustainable Programs
Training, support, and documented practices help programs succeed long-term.
Choose Your Path
Whether you want to borrow a telescope, start a program, volunteer, or support the mission, there is a pathway designed for you.
Explore Astronomy
- Find A Program
- Borrow a Telescope
- Get Started
- Explore the Night Sky
Libraries
- Start a Program
- Astronomy Equipment
- Library Training
- Run Your Program
Volunteers
- Become a Volunteer
- Ambassador Program
- Help Start a Program
- Support Libraries
Support the Mission
- Donate
- Collaborate
- Advocate
- Community Support
Growing Astronomy Access
What began as a grassroots movement has grown into an international effort helping communities experience astronomy through trusted local organizations.
1200
Library Locations
6
Countries
15
Years
Libraries, Volunteers & Community Supporters
Participating Locations
More than 1,200 participating locations are helping communities discover astronomy.
International Reach
Programs operate throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Community Engagement
Volunteers, educators, ambassadors, libraries, and local organizations help bring astronomy experiences to communities.
Organized Support
A dedicated nonprofit organization provides training, resources, and long-term support for participating communities.
Keep in mind:
Successful programs can be supported by volunteers, ambassadors, educators, astronomy organizations, and other community supporters.
Creating Pathways to Discovery
A single telescope can introduce someone to the night sky. A sustainable community program can inspire a lifetime of exploration.
First Experiences
Many participants encounter astronomy for the first time through a library telescope.
Lifelong Learning
Libraries provide trusted spaces for curiosity, exploration, and discovery.
Community Connections
Volunteers, libraries, and astronomy organizations work together to create meaningful experiences.
Future Generations
Today's telescope borrower may become tomorrow's scientist, educator, volunteer, or astronomy club member.
Training & Support
Whether you are borrowing a telescope, operating a library program, volunteering in your community, or supporting local astronomy outreach, a variety of resources and training opportunities are available to help you succeed.
Get Started
Access telescope setup videos, user manuals, observing guides, and beginner-friendly resources designed to help patrons confidently explore the night sky.
Library Training
Foundations training and learning pathways help library staff, coordinators, and supervisors build and sustain successful astronomy lending programs.
Ambassador Training
Training and support opportunities help volunteers develop the knowledge and skills needed to assist libraries, patrons, and community astronomy activities.
Support Libraries
Help libraries launch, operate, and sustain astronomy access programs through volunteer service, community engagement, and local support.
Help Expand Astronomy Access
The Library Telescope Program grows through the efforts of volunteers, libraries, astronomy organizations, foundations, and individual supporters.
Donate
Support training, educational resources, and community engagement initiatives.
Collaborate
Organizations can help expand astronomy access through shared initiatives and expertise.
Volunteer
Support libraries, outreach programs, and public astronomy experiences.
Advocate
Help introduce libraries, schools, and community organizations to the program.
Help More Communities Discover the Night Sky
Whether you are exploring astronomy, supporting a library, volunteering in your community, or helping sustain the mission, there is a pathway for you.
Our Goal
The Library Telescope Program™ empowers libraries to spark curiosity, expand access to astronomy, and foster community engagement through hands-on telescope lending – putting the stars within reach for all.