Library eNewsletter | February 2026 | | | |
SaratogaREADS!
Programming Launches in February
Since 2005, SaratogaREADS! has invited all members of the Saratoga Springs community to participate in a shared reading experience, and to take part in conversations and events inspired by an annual reading selection chosen by the community. By popular vote, The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery is the SaratogaREADS! selection for 2026. This year’s SaratogaREADS! Jr. companion selection is Pax by Sara Pennypacker. Programming will begin in February, run through March, and culminate with our Capstone Event on March 21st, when Sy Montgomery joins us at Skidmore College’s Gannett Auditorium. For a full list of programs and events, visit www.saratogareads.org or our online Events Calendar.
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Growing Towards Sustainability
Inclusion at Your Library
Library programs are for everyone! While it is sometimes necessary for the library to put certain limits on events and ask for registration, the goal is to bring as many people together as possible for a positive experience. At any library program, participants are encouraged to take care of their needs as individuals. This might include taking comfort breaks, wearing noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, using fidget toys (or crafting), or perhaps using a wobble seat cushion. Thanks to a generous donation from Bring on the Spectrum, Saratoga Springs Public Library has some of this equipment available for participants to borrow. Just look for our BOTS Peace & Quiet carts on the first and second floors of the library. We also welcome everyone to bring in whatever they might need for their own personal support.
We are also pleased to announce that in November 2025, several library staffers participated in a training with a representative from SUNY Empire Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES). Through this training, our library's online program descriptions are being updated to provide more information, so that participants can make informed choices and prioritize their own self-care when participating in library events. By including information on what one might expect, sensory and environmental notes, and supports, the library hopes to make all participants feel welcome. Library programs seek to include everyone, to enrich the experiences we share, and create a more vibrant community. We hope to see you soon!
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CALLING ALL TEENS!
Teen Volunteers Wanted
Teens in grades 7-12 are interested in volunteering this winter or spring at the library, are invited to join us for a Teen Volunteer Information Meeting from 1 - 2:15 p.m. Sunday, February 8th. Our teen volunteers not only help us with necessary tasks, but also bring their own special talents to our library! Once they sign up, teen volunteers must attend a one-hour training session with teen librarian, AnnaRae. Please register online.
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What's Happening at Your Library
Get Your Program Guide for January & February 2026
Our Program Guide for January and February is available online and in-house. SSPL prints limited quantities of the guide, which covers two months of programming at a time. This option is for those who wish to have a physical document highlighting our offerings. If you are comfortable with an online format, we encourage you to help us conserve resources by choosing that option, and visiting our online link to the guide or our Events Calendar at www.sspl.org. There, you will find additional programming details, and if required, have the ability to register. Look for our SaratogaREADS! programming in the current guide's insert.
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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
Read Against the Machine
Join us from 7-8 p.m. Monday, March 2nd for a SaratogaREADS! edition of Read Against the Machine. We will be discussing No One is Too Small to Make a Difference by Greta Thunberg.
Read Against the Machine is an ongoing reading group that meets the first Monday of each month and focuses on non-fiction titles that examine social issues of all types. Please register online.
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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
TED Talk Discussions
Have you joined one of our TED Talk Discussions yet? TED talks are videos of brief talks by experts across various fields focused on "ideas worth sharing". You're invited to join us each month for thoughtful discussions on curated TED talks. This month, we'll meet from 2-3 p.m. Monday, February 9th to watch a TED talk (or two) that focus on LOVE, and then have the opportunity to discuss what we've learned together. Join us to explore new ideas, challenge assumptions, and share your thoughts! Please register online.
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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
Flurry Festival Family Programs
SSPL is thrilled to welcome Saratoga’s annual Flurry Festival back to the library. We will host their traditional participatory dances and music programs in the H. Dutcher Community Room from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, February 14th. Enjoy free family programming throughout the day! Workshops will feature music & movement, dance, games, singalongs, and storytelling. No registration required. Drop in for a session or stay all day! See full schedule at www.flurryfestival.org/family.
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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
To All the Animals I Have Met
In the spirit of this year's SaratogaREADS! 2026 selection, The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery, Dr. Frank Akawi, DVM will share armchair stories about the animals he encountered in both clinical settings and far off places. Dr. Akawi will also describe alternative modalities used to successfully treat creatures great and small. Join our virtual speaker for a watch party in the H. Dutcher Community Room or from the comfort of your home via a Zoom link from 7 - 8 p.m. Wednesday, February 18th. Please register online.
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Diving into Digital Services
Read or Listen Online
Did you know that your Saratoga Springs Public Library Card gives you free access to a plethora of downloadable books, audiobooks, magazines, and even comics? If you haven't already, visit this link to get started with SALON, Libby, Hoopla, or Comics Plus.
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Current Library Hours & Services
The library is open seven days a week and indoor seating is available. Current hours of operation are Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Friday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. |Sunday: Noon - 5 p.m.
UPCOMING HOLIDAY HOURS
Presidents' Day - Monday, February 16 - OPEN 9 AM - 5 PM
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How to Find Out About
Programs at Your Library
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