‘How Iowa Met Baseball’ to be presented at Fairfield library June 7

Fairfield Public Library will host “How Iowa Met Baseball: The Myths, the History, the Players,” a compelling presentation by Humanities Iowa speaker John Liepa, on Saturday, June 7, from 1-3 p.m. This free public event marks the final installment in the Library’s Iowa History Speaker Series co-sponsored by the Carnegie Museum, which began in April 2025 with Abby Dubisar’s “Farm Women as Global Citizens: Post-WWII Authority of the First Lady of the Farm.”

In this engaging program, historian and collector John Liepa delves into the real story of how baseball emerged in America, debunking long-held myths and revealing Iowa’s overlooked contributions to the sport’s early history. Through historic images, lively anecdotes, and rare memorabilia, Liepa showcases Iowa’s role in shaping the game and celebrates notable Iowans who made their mark on the diamond.

John Liepa is a retired professor of history and political science with decades of experience as a public speaker and collector. His extensive baseball memorabilia collection adds a vivid, hands-on dimension to this unique program, which is made possible through the Humanities Iowa Speakers Bureau.

“This presentation offers a rich, local perspective on America’s favorite pastime,” said Library Director Alecs Schmidt-Mickunas. “It’s a perfect conclusion to our Iowa History Speaker Series, which has brought thoughtful, engaging programs to our community this spring. I’d also like to express my deep appreciation to Jake Schmidt, Director of the Carnegie Historical Museum, and Museum Research Assistant Charlotte Wright for their support in funding the series. Special thanks as well to Jason Strong, Carnegie Museum Board President, for recording the talks and helping us make them accessible to a wider audience.”