AUBURN — Thanks to a grant from the Cornerstones of Science, the Auburn Public Library now has a telescope that Auburn Library cardholders can borrow for a one week period.

The modified Orion StarBlast 4.5-inch telescope comes complete with a simple instruction book and guides to additional resources such as books, websites, and local astronomers and clubs. Each telescope is modified and upgraded to help assure a positive user experience.

While telescopes can be used by children with adult supervision, the telescopes must be checked out by Auburn Public Library members 18 years of age or older and transported by motor vehicle.

Cornerstones’ STAR (Sharing Telescopes and Astronomical Resources) Program fosters interest in astronomy by getting quality telescopes into the hands of the public. Checking out the telescope as they would a book, people can explore the wonders of the night sky at home. The STAR Program is an accessible way to make hands-on science fun and give people a greater appreciation for astronomy.

In another astronomy event, Kevin Manning, a former consultant with NASA, will present a program titled Astronomy for Everyone: Size and Scale of the Universe on Friday, Aug. 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. Participants will learn about the size and scale of the universe, the stars, and other celestial wonders using hands-on activities and assorted visuals. The evening will include some actual outdoor stargazing with Manning as a guide.

Manning is a gifted astronomer, having worked as a consultant with NASA, the Chandra X-Ray Observatory launched on the space shuttle with the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and other ground-based observatories.

The Auburn Public Library is located at 49 Spring St.