In celebration of the Summer Reading Program theme, A Universe of Stories and the 50th anniversary of the Moon landing, the Pella Public Library is hosting historian Michael Eckers. He will share how rocket technology developed during World War II eventually led to the “Space Race” between the United States and the Soviet Union. This work culminated in manned space flight, the moon landings in the 1960s and 70s, and today’s programs to explore Mars and beyond. Eckers has studied the history of America and the military for more than 50 years, and has written several books, some set during the Civil War and some during World War II. He will have books available for purchase and signing after the program. The event will be held on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. It is free and open to the public and will be held in the Pella Library Meeting Room.