You Provide the Library. We'll Help With the Astronomy.
A Library Telescope can turn an ordinary library card into access to the night sky.
Back Bay Amateur Astronomers works with libraries across Greater Hampton Roads to establish and support telescope-lending programs that are practical for library staff and approachable for patrons. You do not need an astronomer on staff — that is why we're here.
What the BBAA Can Provide
Funding & Procurement
We work with community donors and sponsors to fund new telescope placements. Our goal is a program that allows libraries to start lending immediately, with no cost to them. For new placements, we purchase a purpose-built Apertura Library Telescope — or an equivalent instrument that has been properly vetted for library lending.
Inspection & Preparation
Before delivery, we inspect and test the telescope and prepare program-specific labeling and materials.
Staff Familiarization
A BBAA Library Telescope Program volunteer provides in-person orientation covering basic operation, what patrons need to know, checkout and return checks, common issues, normal consumables, and how to contact an astronomer for assistance.
Checkout & Return Guidance
BBAA provides a simple inspection checklist while leaving lending rules, holds, loan periods, and other circulation policies to the library.
An Assigned LTP Technician
BBAA works with participating library systems to ensure a Library Telescope Technician is available as a continuing point of contact. Subject to library preference, BBAA aims to inspect participating telescope fleets approximately quarterly.
Repairs & Consumables
We provide troubleshooting, collimation, routine repairs, replacement consumables, and — where practical — replacement of damaged components. If a telescope is beyond reasonable repair, we will work with the library to explore replacement when funding permits.
Programming Support
BBAA may also be able to assist with telescope demonstrations, public observing events, introductory astronomy programs, launch/dedication events, and related library programming.
Already Have Library Telescopes?
We'd still like to hear from you. BBAA's support is not limited to telescopes we originally funded. If your library system already owns suitable lending telescopes, we may be able to help with staff familiarization, inspection, collimation, troubleshooting and repairs, consumables, preventive maintenance, and astronomy programming. When we partner with a library system, our goal is to support your Library Telescope fleet as a whole.
How Participation Works
Every library system is different. Rather than impose a rigid operating model, the BBAA Library Telescope Program should fit into your existing Library of Things policies and procedures. If necessary, we are happy to help you establish such a program.
At the library system's preference, we are happy to establish a simple memorandum of understanding so both organizations understand how the partnership will work.
We appreciate basic annual circulation statistics when they are available. Those numbers help us demonstrate community impact, maintain donor support, and fund future placements — but reporting is appreciated rather than required.
If a Telescope Leaves Circulation
If your library is considering discontinuing telescope lending, please contact us first. If the problem is damage, missing parts, alignment, staff turnover, or lack of familiarity with the telescope, there is a good chance we can help. If the telescope is no longer a good fit for your system, we are also happy to advise on possible rehoming.
Outside Hampton Roads?
Our active service area is currently Greater Hampton Roads, but we're happy to advise other libraries and organizations when we can.
Interested in Bringing a Telescope to Your Library?
Tell us about your library, your community, and what you hope to offer patrons.