Book Club is My Alibi In-Person
- Date:
- Wednesday, June 10, 2026
- Time:
- 7:00pm - 8:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Susman Room
- Audience:
- Adults
- Categories:
- Book Groups and Literature Discussions
Join us for discussion of The Man from the Train: Discovering America's Most Elusive Serial Killer by Bill James.
Please register online.*
Between 1898 and 1912, families across the country were bludgeoned in their sleep with the blunt side of an axe. Jewelry and valuables were left in plain sight, bodies were piled together, faces covered with cloth. Some of these cases, like the infamous Villisca, Iowa murders, received national attention. But few people believed the crimes were related. And fewer still would realize that all of these families lived within walking distance to a train station.
When celebrated baseball statistician and true crime expert Bill James first learned about these crimes, he began to investigate others that might fit the same pattern. Applying the analytical acumen he brings to baseball analysis, he empirically determined which crimes were committed by the same person. Then after sifting through thousands of local newspapers, court transcripts and public records, he and his daughter Rachel made an astonishing discovery. They learned the true identity of this monstrous criminal, and in turn, uncovered one of the deadliest serial killers in American history. 2018; 480 pages.
Book Club is My Alibi is a book group for true crime enthusiasts. Meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7pm. All are welcome.
What to Expect
- A discussion of the featured book, facilitated by a librarian.
- Discussions follow a loose, guided structure.
- You do not need to finish the book to attend or participate.
- Participants are welcome to listen quietly or join the discussion—both are valued.
- No pressure to speak, read aloud, or share personal experiences.
- The group will focus on open-ended questions rather than right or wrong answers.
- You may arrive late or leave early if needed.
Sensory Information
- The discussion takes place in a shared indoor space with conversational-level noise.
- Seating is library-style (chairs around a table or in a circle).
- Lighting is standard indoor lighting.
- Voices may overlap during discussion, but the librarian helps keep turn-taking clear.
- The program is generally calm and predictable, with minimal movement.
Sensory Supports
- Listening without speaking is always okay.
- Fidget tools or quiet sensory items are welcome.
- You are welcome to take breaks or step out if you need to.
- Written prompts or questions may be available to follow along.
- Staff are happy to help with seating preferences when possible.
- Additional accessibility supports may be available—please ask library staff.
Saratoga Springs Public Library aims to make all programs welcoming and accessible. If you have questions or need accommodations, please contact the library at 518-584-7860 in advance.
*Registration is not required, but recommended to receive an email reminder