Saratoga Springs Public Library to Host 2nd Local History Fair

Following the success of its inaugural event in 2024, the Saratoga Springs Public Library is proud to announce the return of the Local History Fair on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 1 – 5 p.m. The fair will take place in the library’s H. Dutcher Community Room and is free and open to the public.

The Local History Fair serves as a community hub for anyone interested in genealogical research, historical interpretation, and preservation.  Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over a dozen local museums, historic sites, historical societies, and archives from across the Greater Capital District. These experts will be on hand to answer questions, share resources, and discuss the vital work being done to document and protect our region’s unique heritage.

In addition to the exhibitors, the library will host two featured presentations in the Susman Room:

• 1:30 p.m. – From Attic to Archive: Preserving Your Family’s Past: Join Michelle Isopo, Archivist and Local History Librarian, for an informative session on how to care for your own historical treasures. This program offers practical advice and simple preservation techniques to ensure family documents, photographs, and heirlooms are protected for future generations.

• 3:00 p.m. – Columbia’s Daughters: The Political Equality Clubs of Warren, Washington, and Saratoga Counties, 1890-1917: Librarian and historian Patricia Dolton will explore the fascinating history of local suffrage efforts. This talk highlights the dedicated women of the tri-county area who organized and advocated for political equality in the decades leading up to the passage of the 19th Amendment.

“We’re excited to be hosting our second Local History Fair to give the public the opportunity to learn about some of the wonderful organizations and researchers who are the stewards of the history of our area,” said Caitlin Sheldon, Adult Services Librarian and co-organizer of the event. “So many of these organizations offer not only education, but also research assistance and sometimes volunteer opportunities. We love highlighting the work they do and encouraging people to take advantage of their knowledge and efforts.”

Registration is not required to attend the fair or presentations. For more information, please visit the Library’s Events Calendar at www.sspl.org or call the Saratoga Springs Public Library at 518-584-7860.