The O’Neill Branch Library is closed for a routine update of the HVAC system and is expected to reopen in early February.
Meet the Director
Hi! I am Maria McCauley, the Director of Libraries. Learn more about upcoming Library programs and events in my weekly message.
Learn More
Brewery Book Club (Lamplighter)
Wednesday, January 7 @ 7:00 PM
You’re invited to our January Brewery Book Club, where Lamplighter and the Cambridge Public Library team up to highlight contemporary works from marginalized voices while having a beer. We meet at Lamplighter Brewing Co., 284 Broadway, in the back taproom.
This month we’ll read The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden.
Copies of the book are available at the Main Library Q&A Desk. The e-book and digital audiobook can be borrowed through the Libby app.
We’ll gather in the Lamplighter back taproom to discuss the book, what we learned from it, what we found ourselves touched by, and all other thoughts.
Registration encouraged but not required. Visit Lamplighter Eventbrite page here.
Learn More
Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, January 12 @ 5:00 PM
Come join us at the Boudreau branch for a chess challenge. Players of all skill levels and all ages are welcome to participate.
Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer. This is not an instructional class, but rather a gathering for individuals who want to play and test their skills against other members of the community.
There's no need to register in advance - simply drop by and challenge yourself to improve your mastery of this classic game!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 617-349-4017 or via email: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov or mmcglathery@cambridgema.gov
Learn More
News
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Director's Update, December 28, 2025
Make your own vision board, "Noon Year's" Eve Party, CPL Nature Club and More! -
Director's Update, December 21, 2025
Teen Cookie Decorating, Movie Night, Drop-In Maker Studio, and More! -
Director's Update, December 14, 2025
Festive Fanfare with the BFO, Holiday Cards, Homemade Gifts and More! -
Strategic Framework Accomplishments
Cambridge Public Library releases Strategic Framework Accomplishments Report
Read the Monthly Newsletter
Coming Up
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CANCELED Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
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 required.
-
Digital Embroidery (Main)
Want to learn how to create custom clothing and other fiber projects with embroidered text? In this workshop, you’ll use a digital embroidery machine to stitch personalized designs and take home a unique piece. This class is for those with prior sewing machine experience. If you're new to sewing, we recommend taking our Sewing 101 workshop first.
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Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (Valente)
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 required.
-
Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
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 is a drop-in event designed for patrons ages 12-18.
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After School Stories and Crafts (Central Square)
Join us in the Children's Room for a fun craft and related stories. For more information, call 617-349-4010. This program is recommended for ages 5-10.
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STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Studio is a youth-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 on the iFp website.
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Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
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. No registration required. Stop by the Teen Room or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.
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Alphabet Craft Time (O'Connell)
Come hear stories and songs about things that start with the letter E, and make an elephant craft. We will be using scissors and glue. Recommended for ages 4-6 with a caregiver. No registration is required. Please call (617) 349-4019 for details.
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Evening Family Story Time (Collins)
Join us for stories, songs and rhymes. For children of all ages and their caregivers. Registration is not required.
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Open Shop (Main)
During Open Shop, anyone who has completed Hive training and is badged can reserve Hive equipment or studio spaces. Additionally, individuals are welcome to drop in to work on their projects independently. The Hive staff will assist with questions as they are able! New makers are also welcome to come in during open shop for a 10min drop in video safety training! Tool Reservations for this date will open two weeks prior from this date.
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MCBA Book Group (Central Square)
Did you know you can vote for a winner in the Massachusetts Children's Book Award each year? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month as we read and discuss some of the MCBA nominated books. Cast your vote for your favorite nominated title, right here at the library. This program is for kids in 4th, 5th and 6th grade (or equivalent ages). Registration is required. For more information, please contact jpittel@cambridgema.gov. This month we're reading The Mona Lisa Vanishes by Nicholas Day (Random House, 2023). Limited copies of the book will be available at the Central Square Library. Pizza will be provided!
-
Brewery Book Club (Lamplighter)
You’re invited to our January Brewery Book Club, where Lamplighter and the Cambridge Public Library team up to highlight contemporary works from marginalized voices while having a beer. We meet at Lamplighter Brewing Co., 284 Broadway, in the back taproom. This month we’ll read The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden. Copies of the book are available at the Main Library Q&A Desk. The e-book and digital audiobook can be borrowed through the Libby app. We’ll gather in the Lamplighter back taproom to discuss the book, what we learned from it, what we found ourselves touched by, and all other thoughts. Registration encouraged but not required. Visit Lamplighter Eventbrite page here.
-
CANCELED Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
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 required.
-
Digital Embroidery (Main)
Want to learn how to create custom clothing and other fiber projects with embroidered text? In this workshop, you’ll use a digital embroidery machine to stitch personalized designs and take home a unique piece. This class is for those with prior sewing machine experience. If you're new to sewing, we recommend taking our Sewing 101 workshop first.
-
Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (Valente)
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 required.
-
Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
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 is a drop-in event designed for patrons ages 12-18.
-
After School Stories and Crafts (Central Square)
Join us in the Children's Room for a fun craft and related stories. For more information, call 617-349-4010. This program is recommended for ages 5-10.
-
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Studio is a youth-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 on the iFp website.
-
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
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. No registration required. Stop by the Teen Room or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.
-
Alphabet Craft Time (O'Connell)
Come hear stories and songs about things that start with the letter E, and make an elephant craft. We will be using scissors and glue. Recommended for ages 4-6 with a caregiver. No registration is required. Please call (617) 349-4019 for details.
-
CANCELED Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
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 required.
-
Digital Embroidery (Main)
Want to learn how to create custom clothing and other fiber projects with embroidered text? In this workshop, you’ll use a digital embroidery machine to stitch personalized designs and take home a unique piece. This class is for those with prior sewing machine experience. If you're new to sewing, we recommend taking our Sewing 101 workshop first.
-
Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (Valente)
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 required.