Saratoga Reads! was created with an uncomplicated goal in mind — to invite the Saratoga community to read a great book and to engage in activities and conversations inspired by this shared experience. Now in its tenth year, Saratoga Reads! can proudly state that its initial vision is a reality, that members of the Saratoga community do indeed collaborate to shape and share in a collective conversation and activities that include a range of age groups and areas of interest. Quite simply, Saratoga Reads!
Saratoga Reads! focuses its yearly activity on a single book, chosen by the community, through an initial nomination process and final election—that is rich enough to inspire invigorating dialogue and extensive programming. The book selection process is a widely publicized invitation to the greater Saratoga public to suggest a suitable book. A selection advisory committee then carefully reviews the nominated texts to present a ballot to the community for a public vote during the month of October. The winning title is announced in early November.
Community Events
Once the year’s winning book is announced a wealth of community activity begins in celebration of the book and its broader themes. Throughout the winter and spring activities targeting readers of all ages and levels are planned by Saratoga Reads! and a variety of community partners. All events are free of charge.
Past events include author visits to Saratoga Springs by Gregory Maguire, Sandra Cisneros, and Sara Gruen, events inspired by junior companion titles, artistic workshops at the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore College, read-aloud circles and programs at area retirement and assisted-living communities, thematically related movies and book discussions at area cafes and other venues and thematically related programming relevant to the Saratoga community such as programs presented by the Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library: The (Not So) Secret Life of Bees, which explored importance of honeybees through presentations by local beekeepers, farmers, and honey artisans; and a discussion on Depression-era Saratoga, inspired by Water for Elephants).
