Spotlight 7. The Universe

In these Library Spotlight posts we’re picking a theme and highlighting some of the amazing content available to you online via Sheffield Libraries, as well as out there in the wider world. 

Today we’re contemplating the Universe.  

When imagining our future, what can Science Fiction teach us? 

In this Guardian Books podcast, authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck discuss their bestselling space-opera series, The Expanse, which started in 2012 and is due to end in 2021.  Set in the middle of the 24th century, society is now beyond race and gender, and is instead divided on a planetary level.  The series was recently adapted for television.

Listen to the podcast

Creativity during Corona - The Universe

Each morning during lockdown, we’ve been posting daily creative prompts on Facebook and we’ve been overwhelmed by the response from people creating their own poetry and artwork.  We look forward to showcasing some of this work during an exhibition at the Central Library when life returns to normal.

Claire from Central Library writes;

When thinking about the Universe, my initial thoughts turned to stars. I was going to share Auden’s “The more loving one,” a poem about unrequited love using a star-less sky as a metaphor. Then there’s Sylvia Plath’s ‘Stars Over the Dordogne’, a beautiful but melancholy poem. 

I’ve settled on Nick Drake’s “Back of your head”. I never thought I’d admit to missing my commute on the number 76 bus, but after reading this poem, I do.   Why not read the Guardian’s review of the poem (it has the word juxtaposition in it). I like the idea that the back of someone’s head can lead to thoughts of 170 billion galaxies.

Read Back of your head online

You could simply read the poems then close…or take a look at the prompts on our Facebook page and send us your own thoughts, notes, journal piece, poem, short story,  drawing, paintings, photographs, knitting, sewing, or  songs….  Enjoy.

Explore the eLibrary

The Sheffield eLibrary is packed with content that can take your imagination into space, and whet your appetite to discover more.  We also have content aimed at different ages including these eMagazines.

Explore the eLibrary

Behind the Scenes at NASA

NASA brings you images, videos and features from the unique perspective of America's space agency. Get updates on missions, tour the International Space Station, read blogs, listen to podcasts, and lots more.

Visit the NASA website

The Astro Science Challenge – a learning adventure for children

Check out this interactive and FREE space science adventure for children aged 7-11 to inspire them in STEM subjects. Designed and delivered by the Unlimited Space Agency in collaboration with the UK Space Agency, Science Museum, and others,  children complete a series of Missions through the Astro Science Challenge app to become fully fledged Agents of UNSA.  

Discover more online

Take the Quiz

The Book trust website is full of fun features for children and families, including lots of quizzes about children’s books.  Once you’ve taken the Space Quiz, why not test your knowledge of Harry Potter, Roald Dahl or the Famous Five? 

Take the quiz