UTA Libraries Special Collections Seeking Community Donations for New Collection

The University of Texas at Arlington Libraries Special Collections is seeking community donations of digital materials documenting the Total Solar Eclipse, which occurred April 8. 

As the moon blocked the Sun’s light, millions across North Texas looked up at the skies in unison to experience totality. The Total Solar Eclipse of April 8, 2024, brought our community together to celebrate and experience a rare celestial event. The eclipse was the first in the DFW Metroplex since 1878 and the last until 2045 – making it a historic occasion.  

UTA Libraries Special Collections is looking to collect digital materials to add to our permanent archival collections to help document this historical moment for the benefit of future generations. Items of interest include digital photographs, videos, artwork, and more relating to the eclipse, celebrations, and gatherings in North Texas on April 8, 2024.  

Community members are invited to make donations through the Total Solar Eclipse Collection donation form. Donations are limited to digital or digitized materials, including anything relating to the eclipse and surrounding community gatherings or events. Some examples of donations include, but are not limited to: 

• Photographs of your eclipse-watching group. 
• Videos from watch parties. 
• Community-created digital artwork. 
• Photographs or videos of people enjoying the eclipse. 

Please note that the primary focus of this collection will be the community response to the eclipse rather than photographs of the sun and moon themselves.