Boston Public Library President David Leonard will host a Public Conversation with Robert Stone and Alan Andres. The discussion will center around their book, "Chasing the Moon", a companion book to the "American Experience" film on PBS of the same title. The book and the six-hour documentary bring to brilliant life the important figures who helped America complete JFK's vision with the first lunar landing fifty years ago.

Based on eyewitness accounts and newly discovered archival material, "Chasing the Moon" reveals for the first time the unknown stories of the fascinating individuals whose imaginative work across several decades culminated in America’s momentous achievement. More than a story of engineers and astronauts, the moon landing — now celebrating its 50th anniversary — grew out of the dreams of science fiction writers, filmmakers, military geniuses, and rule-breaking scientists.

Setting these key players in the political, social, and cultural climate of the time, and including captivating photographs throughout, "Chasing the Moon" focuses on the science and the history, but most importantly, the extraordinary individuals behind what was undoubtedly the greatest human achievement of the 20th century.

This month marks 50 years since the moon landing!

On July 14, August 25, and September 15, 2019 shoppers, diners and pedestrians can explore new restaurants, local boutiques, and international brands — or rediscover your favorite Newbury Street gems on a street transformed and free of cars. Find meaning in the melodies of local musicians, challenge your friends to an outdoor game, or simply stroll along enjoying the festive atmosphere of Open Newbury Street. Celebrate Newbury Street, a uniquely treasured place in the heart of Boston.

There are multiple MBTA stations in the vicinity of Newbury Street including Arlington, Copley and Hynes on the Green Line and Back Bay Station on the Orange Line and commuter rail. Ride your bike to Newbury Street and lock it to bike corrals stationed throughout the event. Take BlueBikes and dock at stations located throughout Back Bay. Multiple parking garages are located in the Copley Square area south of Boylston Street.

Newbury Street will be car-free from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. from Berkeley Street to Massachusetts Avenue. The intersections of Exeter Street, Fairfield Street, Gloucester Street and Hereford Street will be car-free with the remainder of the intersections open to traffic for public safety access. Parking will be restricted beginning at 5 am.

The City of Boston encourages all businesses to take part in Open Newbury Street by activating outdoor spaces and taking advantage of the reclaimed public space. All outdoor activations are restricted only to those businesses that have brick and mortar locations on Newbury Street. If you are representing a business that is located on Newbury Street and would like set up an event outside, please fill out the online form or contact Jacob Wessel at jacob.wessel@boston.gov or 617-635-0025. We are excited to hear about what you're planning and look forward to helping make this year's Open Newbury Street days successful for your business!