Adel Library to Host Baseball History Program

Event explores myths, history, and players of America's pastime.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:29pm

A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in earthy tones, conceptually representing the complex history and cultural significance of baseball.An artistic interpretation of the history and evolution of baseball, deconstructed into a cubist masterpiece.Adel Today

The Adel Public Library will host a special program on Tuesday morning focused on the history of baseball in Iowa. Professor and baseball enthusiast John Liepa will discuss the myths around the sport's origins, trace its early evolution and spread to the state, and showcase an extensive collection of baseball memorabilia.

Why it matters

As the baseball season approaches, this event provides an opportunity for the local community to learn more about the rich history and cultural significance of America's national pastime, especially in the Midwest.

The details

The program, titled "How Iowa Met Baseball: The Myths, The History, The Players," will take place at 10 a.m. on Tuesday in the Adel Public Library's community room. Lily Schwarz, the library's Programming Specialist, says the event is being presented in partnership with Humanities Iowa.

  • The program will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2026.

The players

Lily Schwarz

The Programming Specialist at the Adel Public Library, who is organizing the baseball history event.

John Liepa

A professor and baseball enthusiast who will be the featured speaker, exploring the myths, history, and key players in the sport's journey to Iowa.

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What they’re saying

“While baseball season hasn't started yet, area residents can learn about the history of the sport next week in Adel.”

— Lily Schwarz, Programming Specialist, Adel Public Library

What’s next

The free program is open to the public, and community members are invited to attend the event at the Adel Public Library on Tuesday morning.

The takeaway

This baseball history program provides a unique opportunity for the local community to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sport's evolution and cultural significance, especially in the Midwest, as the new season approaches.