Director's Update, March 31, 2024

Dear Patrons,

On Tuesday, April 2, join Ursula Villarreal-Moura, the author of the debut novel Like Happiness, for a reading and conversation moderated by Elizabeth Gonzalez James, the author of The Bullet Swallower. This event is hybrid and registration is required. 

Join Grow Native on Wednesday, April 3, for a talk, Planting for Climate Resilience, with Andrea Berry, the executive director of the Wild Seed Project. Learn about the actions you can take to make your corner of the world more biodiverse and resilient to the effects of climate change. Registration is required.

Looking to make a fashion statement and be environmentally conscious as well? Join Ninawa Zero Waste Clothes at the Central Square Branch on Thursday, April 4, for an introduction to upcycling your clothing into something new. Bring a cotton shirt you no longer wear (and don’t mind tearing up), and Aelen will show you how to turn it into something new. Registration is required.

Activities for Kids    

This week, these programs will be offered at our Boudreau, Central Square, Collins, Main, O’Connell, O’Neill, and Valente locations.     

Sing-Alongs     

Story Times              

Book Groups
Learn more about our Book Groups. 

Baby Lapsit (Main)
Monday, April 1
10-10:20 a.m.
            
Just for you and your baby! Enjoy time with other parents and caregivers to help babies learn, play, and develop language and motor skills. Recommended for 0-12 months. Come prepared to sit on the floor with your baby in your lap. This program can accommodate 15 babies and their caregivers. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. The entire party must be present to receive a ticket. This program starts promptly. Unclaimed seats will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.   

ESOL Classes (Central Square) 
Monday, April 1, Tuesday, April 2, and Thursday, March 28
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 27, and Friday, March 2910:30 a.m.-Noon 

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes occur on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. On Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays, High Beginner ESOL is at 10:30 a.m. Beginner ESOL is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1 p.m. Intermediate ESOL is on Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m., Advanced ESOL is on Tuesday, and Thursday at 3 p.m.

Wellness for Seniors: Low-Impact Fitness® (Virtual)
Monday, April 1
11-11:45 a.m.   
   
This class is designed for people of all levels to strengthen muscles, the heart, and the brain—all while having fun and moving to great music! Come as you are and take everything at your own pace. You will feel the benefits in mind and body! Registration is required for each session. This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.    

Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Monday, April 1, 2-4 p.m.
Tuesday, April 2, 3:30-6:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 4, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, April 5, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.  
Saturday, April 6, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

During this period, anyone who has completed The Hive Safety Training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) can reserve equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able.   

LEGO Time (Main) 
Monday, April 1
4-4:45 p.m.    
           
It’s a weekly block party! Bring friends to design and build amazing LEGO structures. Let your imagination run wild! The Children's Room has plenty of LEGO pieces, so you don’t need to bring your own. Be aware that LEGO pieces are choking hazards for young children, so this program is for children ages 5+ and their caregivers. It can accommodate 30 builders. Children under age 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. This program starts promptly, and any unclaimed seats will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.

Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Monday, April 1, and Wednesday, April 3
5-6 p.m.            

Need help with a class? Have a question before an exam? Tutors are available to help you! Cambridge School Volunteers and the Library are pleased to offer tutoring services in the Teen Room on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please contact us with any questions at 617-349-4027 (voice) or via relay at 711.          

ESOL Class (Valente)
Monday, April 1
6-7 p.m.            

Join us for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)! This class will be taught at a beginner level. No testing is needed. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.   

Jane Kamensky Presents: Candida Royalle and the Sexual Revolution: A History from Below (Main)
Monday, April 1
6-7:30 p.m.

The Library and Harvard Book Store welcome Jane Kamensky, the award-winning author of A Revolution in Color and president of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, for a discussion of her new book, Candida Royalle and the Sexual Revolution: A History from Below. Registration is required.

LibraryBEATS! Drum and Rhythm Program (Collins)
Tuesday, April 2
10:30 a.m.-11:20 a.m.

Otha Day presents his signature "Drum to  the Beat: Drum Circle and Rhythm Event." This fully participatory program is especially for the very young. Otha leads intergenerational, lively drum circle events from the core belief that rhythm can build community, promote well-being, and create joy. He supports participants as they learn about the importance of rhythm in all aspects of life while taking part in activities and experiences, showing them that their "heartbeat and breath are the rhythms of the soul and the pathways of connection to everyone." Recommended for children ages 3-6 and their caregivers.

3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Tuesday, April 2
1-2:30 p.m.

Learn how to create your favorite game piece in digital space and print it out using our Sindoh 3D printers. In this workshop, you will get hands-on experience running the 3D printer, gain fundamental 3D modeling skills using Tinkercad, and earn your 3D Printing badge for future reservations in The Hive. Before taking this workshop, you will need to complete The Hive Safety Training and create a free Tinkercad account at www.tinkercad.com. Parents may need to assist users under the age of 18 to create an account. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, April 2
2:30-3:30 p.m.           
          
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters as you work, get inspired, pick up skills, and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, and mend. Refreshments will be provided. 

Drop-in Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, April 2
4-6 p.m.

Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want help using an online resource? Need someone to read your resume and support navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in help hours. No registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov.

2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration: Sun-Powered Jewelry (O'Connell)

Tuesday, April 2
4-5 p.m.

These beads change color! Come join us at O'Connell to make fun jewelry with a twist. Recommended for kids ages 5 and up and their grownups. This event is part of the Library's 2024 Eclipse Celebration. Check out our calendar of events or ask at your branch library to learn about other events that are part ofthis special program: 2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration

STEAM Academy: iFp Labs (Main)
Tuesday, April 2
4:30-6:30 p.m.  

Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Labs start with students' interest in building a better world and introduce them to the underlying science and math principles that will bring their solutions to life. Youth in the 7th and 8th grades are invited to join iFp on a journey into the world of artificial intelligence with “Smart Cars AI: Driving Innovation for All.” This 13-week adventure invites students to dive into the world of self-driving cars at the intersection of technology and innovation.   

2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration: Blackout Poetry Workshop (Collins)
Tuesday, April 2
5-6 p.m.

Blackout poetry lets us choose words to hide on the page which creates new poems based on the words that shine through. Join us to use upcycled newspapers and magazines to come up with our very own poems. All supplies will be provided. Registration is not required. Questions? Contact Lucy at LFlamm@CambridgeMA.gov or call 617-349-4022. 

This event is part of the Library's 2024 Eclipse Celebration. Check out our calendar of events or ask at your branch library to learn about other events that are part of this special series of programs.

CPL Presents: Ursula Villarreal-Moura, Author of Like Happiness (Hybrid)
Tuesday, April 2
6-7:30 p.m.

Join Ursula Villarreal-Moura, the author of the debut novel Like Happiness, for a reading and conversation moderated by Elizabeth Gonzalez James, the author of The Bullet Swallower.Called "memorable and incisive" by Kirkus and "accomplished" by Publishers Weekly, Like Happiness is an epistolary novel spanning time and space and, according to Xochitl Gonzalez, is the "perfect book to recommend for both Sunday reads and subway commutes." Porter Square Books will be selling copies of Like Happiness. Registration is required. This event is cosponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.

Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, April 2
6:30-7:30 p.m. 

Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters. 

Studio Recording 101 (Main)
Tuesday, April 2
7:30-8:30 p.m.

Are you interested in podcasting, audio production, or video production? The Hive has two state-of-the-art recording studios! Join this workshop to become familiar with studio equipment and software. Registration is required.  This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. 

Wellness for Seniors: Tai Chi Paradigm
Wednesday, April 3, and Friday, April 5
10-11 a.m.

Join us in this 12-week Tai Chi practice, which focuses on the mind and body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low-impact routine. Sifu Mynor Diaz has been learning and teaching Tai Chi classes for over 20 years. He has taught at five VA Boston Healthcare System locations and at Senior Centers. 

Note: We will be running two separate Tai Chi Paradigm series this year, a Wednesday series and a Friday series. Due to its subject matter, we expect participants to attend all the classes. Please register for only one series. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.  

English Conversation Practice, Intermediate (O'Neill)
Wednesday, April 3
1-2:30 p.m. 

Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Conversation Practice. This group is for those with an intermediate or high level of English language skill. No testing is required. For more information on other ESOL classes, please call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.  

Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, April 3
1-3 p.m.

Looking for assistance creating a résumé or finding jobs? Join us for assistance with job hunting and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.  

Sewing 101 (Main)
Wednesday, April 3
1-2:30 p.m.  

In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of sewing machine operation and safety. This session will cover machine setup, basic functions, threading the machine, reloading the bobbin, sewing straight stitches, and recognizing when stitch tension has gone awry. We’ll also cover some safety best practices when operating a sewing machine. As we learn together, we’ll work on a simple project—a drawstring bag—which most students will be able to complete by the end of the class. Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. 

Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, April 3
3-4:30 p.m.

Come to the Library for games and a different activity each week! Kids of all ages can hang out and do crafts or STEAM activities. No registration is required. This week we will be creating invisible ink.

2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration: Blackout Poetry (O'Connell)
Wednesday, April 3
3-4 p.m.

Celebrate National Poetry Month and the upcoming solar eclipse with us by creating your own blackout poetry. Blackout poetry is created by taking a written piece of text from a book, newspaper, or magazine and redacting words to come up with your very own poetry piece! All supplies will be provided, and all ages are welcome. Questions? Contact Abby at aclinger@cambridgema.gov. This event is part of the Library's 2024 Eclipse Celebration. Check out our calendar of events or ask at your branch library to learn about other events that are part ofthis special program: 2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration

The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, April 3
3:30-5 p.m.

Have you checked out The Hive yet? Teens are welcome to come learn about our space and try their hand at sticker making, video recording in our studio, and more. This drop-in event is designed for ages 12-18.

Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, April 3
5:30-8:30 p.m.

Continue building your machine-sewing skills and receive support as you work on your own sewing projects with our Library sewing community. Participants must register but may drop-in any time during the program.Registration is required. This program is designed for patrons who know the basics of how to use our Janome sewing machines. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Grow Native Presents Evening with Experts: Planting for Climate Resilience, with Andrea Berry, Wild Seed Project (Main)
Wednesday, April 3
7-8:30 p.m.

In addition to helping to sustain vital pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, native plantings offer countless other benefits that are indispensable in the age of climate change. When created and maintained with ecologically attuned landscaping practices, they can minimize flooding and stormwater runoff, shade and cool cities, survive droughts, and facilitate carbon storage more effectively than the landscapes dominated by turf and mulch that blanket so many of our communities. Join Andrea Berry from the Wild Seed Project to learn about the actions you can take to make your corner of the world more biodiverse and resilient to the effects of climate change. Registration is required.

Andrea joined the Wild Seed Project as the organization’s executive director in 2021. She also serves on the Board of Directors at Southern Maine Conservation Collaborative and recently was elected to the Select Board for the town of North Yarmouth, Maine, where she is leading community efforts around land conservation and environmental stewardship.Registration is required.

Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Thursday, April 4
10-11 a.m.

Would you like to make your own vinyl signs, stickers, or images to transfer to T-shirts and other textiles? In this workshop, you can learn how to use our Roland Camm-1 GS-24 vinyl cutter. You can then design a sticker and cut it with our vinyl cutter! Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.

Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Thursday, April 4
2-4 p.m.

Learn how to cut, engrave, and shape designs from a variety of materials using the Glowforge Pro laser cutter in this workshop. This two-hour workshop replaces the previous two-part Glowforge 101 offering; the content and length of this workshop and the two-part series are the same. You will start by using the camera on the Glowforge to focus and scan your own images, properly select materials for your project, and fabricate your first design. You will create digital artwork for the Glowforge and learn file formatting for production. Registration is required.

Note: This is a badging course for laser cutting. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this program. View The Hive's workshop schedule here. 

STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Thursday, April 4
3:30-7 p.m.

Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Studio is a teen-powered design and innovation program where teens channel their energy and creative vision to imagine and build a better world. Blending art, design, science, technology, and storytelling within a social justice framework, teens engage in real-world client-sponsored projects. Teens are invited to learn more and apply on the iFp website: Innovators for Purpose.

Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, April 4
2:30-3:30 p.m.

Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle—an hour of fun and conversation.

Read to a Dog (Valente)
Thursday, April 4
3:30-5 p.m.

Read with Dante, our local cuddly therapy dog! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 15-minute time slot is required by calling or visiting the Valente Branch (617-349-4015). 

Fiber Arts Adventure with Lenni: A Machine-Sewing Workshop Series (Main)
Thursday, Aprill 4
5:30-8:30 p.m.

Continue building your machine-sewing skills and create bespoke sewn crafts! Project options are tailored on two tracks: those who are familiar with our Janome machines and beginner sewers and those who are intermediate sewers. This four-part series is led by the fiber artist and designer Lenni Armstrong.Registration is required. Those registered for the first session will automatically be enrolled in the following weeks. Spots are very limited; kindly only enroll if you plan to attend all four workshops. All sessions meet in the Rossi Room. This intermediate workshop is designed for patrons who know the basics of our Janome sewing machines. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Intro to Upcycling! (Central Square)
Thursday, April 4
6-8 p.m.

Looking to make a fashion statement and be environmentally conscious as well? Join Ninawa Zero Waste Clothes for an introduction to upcycling your clothing into something new. Bring a cotton shirt you no longer wear (and don't mind tearing up) and Aelen will show you how to turn it into something new.  Registration is required.

2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration: Eclipse Chalk Art Drop-in Craft (Main)
Friday, April 5
9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Get ready for the upcoming solar eclipse by creating your very own picture of an eclipse using chalk in the Children's Room. This is a self-guided activity for children of all ages and their caregivers. This event is part of the Library's 2024 Eclipse Celebration. Check out our calendar of events or ask at your branch library to learn about other parts of this special program: 2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration.

Screening of Q followed by a Q&A with Jude Chehab (Main)
Friday, April 5
2-4 p.m.

Join us for a screening of Q, followed by a Q&A with the director, Jude Chehab.
An intimate and haunting portrayal of a quest for love and acceptance at any cost, Q depicts the considerable influence of a secretive matriarchal religious order in Lebanon on three generations of women in the Chehab family. The award-winning filmmaker Jude Chehab potently documents the unspoken ties and consequences of loyalty that have bonded her mother, grandmother, and herself to the mysterious organization. Q won the Albert Maysles award for the Best New Documentary Director at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2023. This event is cosponsored by the Community Art Center.

Kids' Zine Collective (O'Neill)
Friday, April 5
4-5 p.m.

What's a zine? And how do I make one? Come find out! Kids are invited to explore making, copying, sharing, and swapping zines. It will include activities like writing, drawing, and collage. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Snacks will be provided!

The Hive Safety Training (Main)
Saturday, April 6
9:30-10:30 a.m.

Are you interested in using The Hive? In this workshop you will learn about our makerspace, how to use the resources we offer, and how to keep safe in The Hive. Find out what you need to get started as a maker in The Hive here. Completion of The Hive Safety Training is the entry point to making, innovating, and collaborating in this space. Makers must also sign The Hive User Agreement and Waivers. Registration is required.

Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Saturday, April 6
1-2 p.m.

Read with a cuddly friend! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required by calling or visiting the O’Neill Branch (617-349-4023).

Bridging Divides: Empowering Generations with Generative AI (Main)
Saturday, April 6
2-4:30 p.m.

Joint Family is delighted to host a special event in collaboration with Google's Women Techmakers Program and the Library to recognize, empower, and celebrate women in technology across ages. We warmly invite you to be a part of this special in-person gathering, which will take place during International Women's Month this year. Our workshop will focus on:

• a gentle introduction to Generative Artificial Intelligence
• current risks and opportunities
• latest tools and trends
• and, most important, a chance to hear from upcoming women in this space

By joining this session, you'll get to try out new GenAI tools, connect with professionals from various sectors, and learn about ways in which the science and tech communities are leveraging AI for positive outcomes. While walk-ins are welcome, registration is preferred. Register here!

Chess Hour (O'Neill)
Saturday, April 6
3-4 p.m.

Join us for a game of chess! Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. This is a space for individuals to play and test their skills against other members of the community. It is not an instructional class. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 617-349-4023 or via e-mail: sjoycefarley@cambridgema.gov.

Stay Connected    

Please subscribe to our e-mail list, follow us on X, Instagram, or Facebook, and visit our website.     

All the best!    

Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries     

                                          

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The City of Cambridge does not discriminate, including on the basis of disability. We may provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to people with disabilities. For more information, contact us at library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4032 (voice) or via relay at 711.