Library Telescope Program

Corpus Christi Public Libraries are proud to announce a continued partnership with the Corpus Christi Astronomical Society (CCAS), a local amateur astronomy club that recently donated a telescope to the libraries. With this donation, CCPL will join the movement of libraries in the Library Telescope Program working to spark curiosity, expand access to astronomy, foster community engagement through hands-on telescope lending, and put the stars within reach for all.

The new telescope will be available in the catalog beginning Monday, November 16th, 2026 and will be introduced to users during a Star Party held at Janet F. Harte Public Library on Friday, November 13th from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.  Learn more about the Star Party here: Star Party - LibCal - City of Corpus Christi Public Libraries

How to Borrow the Telescope:

Find the telescope in our catalog here: Details for Library Telescope › Corpus Christi Public Libraries catalog

• May be checked out on adult resident and non-resident library cards in good standing
• Borrow for a 2-week period with 1 renewal (if item is not on hold)
• Place the item on hold to pick it up at any library
• Be prepared to safely carry and transport the telescope. When placing the telescope in a vehicle to travel, the telescope must use its own seat and be secured with a seatbelt. View the following video for information about transporting the telescope safely: NHAS-LTP-Transport
  
  

Telescope User Guides:

Safe carrying and transportation is required: NHAS-LTP-Transport

Once you have a telescope borrowed on your account, view the get started page to find:

• 3 short how-to videos for setting up and using the telescope
• Tools for finding items in the night sky
• Observation pointers
• Helpful downloads, including the telescope user manual
• Frequently Asked Questions
  
  

Astronomy Resources:

Contents of Astronomy › Corpus Christi Public Libraries catalog

• Book list of Astronomy and stargazing items available in the Corpus Christi Public Libraries

Gale In Context: Science (TexShare Database)

• Science In Context is an engaging online experience for those seeking contextual information on hundreds of today's most significant science topics. Search for “Astronomy” to find a variety of resources, including science experiments you can conduct while stargazing.
• All TexShare databases are available in Corpus Christi Public Libraries. For home access, request the TexShare password; library card in good standing required.

Skywatching Tips From NASA

• Tips, guides, activities, and videos for skywatchers

AstroIntro-BW-complete-9-26.pdf

• Take your first steps exploring the heavens, from the Astronomical League – a document containing information about viewing the night sky including planets and stargazing.

Night Sky Tools - Astronomical League

• Tools for navigating the night sky specific to each month of the year

Library Telescope Program - Astronomical League

• Guides for using basic telescopes, and finding planets, stargazing, or finding objects on the moon.

Best Astronomy Apps 2026: SkySafari, Stellarium and More Reviewed

• A list of available astronomy apps, organized by Telescope Advisor

88 Constellations | NOIRLab

• A collection of free, high resolution images of all 88 western IAU-recognized constellations.