Event box

HKS Library & Research Services

Research-A-Thon: Political Buttons Collection [In Person]

Friday, October 17, 2025, 10:30am - 2:30pm
Open to the public, Enrichment Activity,

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT

Ahead of state and local elections this November, join HKS and Harvard Libraries for a civically engaged research-a-thon on the Political Buttons at HKS Collection!

The Political Buttons at HKS Collection features nearly 3,000 buttons representing U.S. political history from 1904 through today. At this research-a-thon, we'll be investigating and identifying the dates associated with the buttons of candidates who have run for all levels of political office. Identifying these dates will make it much easier for people to find specific buttons in the collection, enabling more robust research. Plus, you’ll get to explore the many political campaigns run over the past century – just in time for you to get out to your city's polls next month!

At the event, we’ll also have information on how you can register to vote in the municipal elections taking place on November 4 in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville.

All are welcome to join this event regardless of Harvard affiliation. Lunch will be served. Participants must bring their own laptops or other research devices. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate and can email library_research@hks.harvard.edu to request an accommodation.

Also join our Copyright-A-Thon on the Political Buttons Collection on October 28.

Add to: Google Calendar Other calendar (.ics)

Event Organizer

Alessandra Seiter