Bryan-Bennett Library

News & Events

News & Updates on Events

Planetarium Experience @ Bryan-Bennett

No reservations required; but, to avoid a wait time, reservations are recommended.
Showings scheduled:
  • March 7, four showings starting at 4:30
  • March 16 and 23, eight showings starting at 9:30
  • More schools are inquiring.

Special public showings prior to and during Eclipse in April:

  • Thursday, April 4, four showings, starting at 4:30 p.m.
  • Friday, April 5, eight showings, starting at 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 6, showings from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, April 7, showings from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Monday, April 8, showings from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Closes 1:30 to 3 for Eclipse)
  • Tuesday, April 9, showings from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, April 10, showings from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Participants can learn to recognize some constellations, as well as explore the planets and types of solar eclipses. All ages are welcome to participate. The dome is accessible for those with limited mobility. Each participant receives one free pair of eclipse glasses after attending this program for use during the April 8 eclipse.

Funding for this project was provided in part by the Salem Tourism Board and private donations.

More details on further Planetarium Experience programming will be available at a later date.

Leather Apron Club

The club will meet on February 1 for discussion and activities from 10:30 to 11:30.

One-on-One Assistance Available with Basic Computer Tasks and Smart Phones

Want to set up an email account or word processing document? Need help with learning how to save contacts to your new smart phone? See a circulation clerk or call the circulation desk to schedule a one-on-one session. Help topics as well as dates and times available will vary, call for more information.

Ongoing Programs and Events

Preschool Story Time

Preschool Story Time will meet in the Davenport Room each Friday at 10 beginning again on January 5. This program is designed for preschoolers and their favorite caregivers.

 Dominos Thursdays from 1 to 3

All adults are welcome to participate in the weekly dominos game.  The group meets in the Glass Office/Reference Room just inside the East entrance of the Library.

There is no fee or library card required to join the game. The group brings snacks to share after the game.

Maker Stations

Ask at the circulation desk for one of four projects to create: paper airplanes, a DNA model, a sturdy bridge, or cell phone speakers. In the tub the circulation clerk provides is step by step instructions and everything needed to complete the project. Keep the project but turn in the tub and contents to a circulation clerk when finished. No fee or library card is required to participate. These are available during normal business hours for all ages. Ask at the circulation desk. Soon the choices will change to: rubber band planets, dazzling kaleidoscope, balloon rocket car, and a dancing snake.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

The goal is to read 1000 books to a child before they enter Kindergarten. Children who have not yet entered Kindergarten are eligible to participate in this program with their caregiver. Caregivers may stop by the circulation desk to register and receive a program folder to record books. Children will receive incentives at each 100 book milestone (stickers, tote bags, buttons, new books).