Michiana libraries hold solar eclipse viewing parties

Although it wasn't a total solar eclipse in Michiana, many gathered at area libraries to view the phenomenon.

The Elkhart Public Library wanted to give folks a safe spot to see the eclipse so they gave a free pair of eclipse glasses to the first 250 people.

So many people were there that the library ran out of glasses.

“We started giving them out at noon, people started lining up, I believe, as soon as 9am this morning and by 1 p.m. we were totally out of glasses,” said Mary Beth Schlavach, Head of Reference at Elk Public Library.

Although the glasses went quick, the librarians say everyone seemed to have a good time watching the eclipse reach near totality.

Elkhart wasn't the only place in Michiana where people could view this historic event.

Some were at the St. Joe Public Library, too.

Many were sitting in the grass and on the sidewalks just taking in the rare and amazing moment saying it was an experience they will never forget.