Due to construction on Broadway, the Main Library garage is expected to close Friday, July 31, through Monday, August 3, and expected to reopen on Tuesday, August 4. The Library is open for normal hours.
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
Summer Reading: Stuffed Animal Sleepover (O'Connell)
Monday, August 3 @ 4:30 PM
Bring a stuffed animal to the Library for a fun story time! Tuck your animal in, wish them sweet dreams, and read them a good night story. Come back on Tuesday 8/4 (or later) to pick up your friend and find out what adventures they had! Please make sure to bring an animal you are comfortable leaving overnight. This program is recommended for children of all ages and their caregivers. No registration is required.
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Summer Reading: An Evening with Lola the Plant Lady (Main)
Tuesday, August 4 @ 6:00 PM
In this 60-minute workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of houseplant care, including how to choose the right plants for their space, understand light and watering needs, and troubleshoot common issues. The session also introduces the concept of “plantuition”—a more intuitive approach to plant care that encourages observation and confidence. This workshop is especially suited for renters, beginners, and anyone working with limited space or budget.
Learn More
News
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Construction on Broadway will Impact Access to Library Garage
Main Library garage will be closed Friday, July 31, through Monday, August 3, reopening for normal use on Tuesday, August 4. -
Director's Update, July 26, 2026
Library Crawl, Gregory E. O’Malley, Summer Fitness, and More! -
Director's Update, July 19, 2026
Ice Cream Party, Seeds of Change, Adult Summer Camp, and More -
Director's Update, July 12, 2026
Summer Fitness, Sign Language Basics, Community Banner Sewing, and More!
Check out the Monthly Newsletter
Coming Up
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High Beginner ESOL (Central Square)
Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) class. This class will be taught at a high beginner level. No testing needed. For more information call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
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Kick Back & Watch a Movie (Central)
Come watch Hoppers (2026) on Central Square Library’s big screen and eat free popcorn!
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Teen Movie (Valente)
Watch a movie chosen by teen vote. No registration required, drop-in when you can. 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.
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Fun with Gif-o-Grafs! (Main)
Turn paper cut-outs into animations with the Gif-O-Graf machine! See your stories come to life! No registration required. For elementary-age children and families. Children under 12 must have an adult with them to attend this event.
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Intermediate English Grammar and Conversation Practice
Come join us at the Central Square Library 45 Pearl Street Cambridge No registration required - just drop in. Small English conversation group and instruction. Ideal for intermediate level.
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[CANCELED] Summer Reading: BioDesign with the Rhode Island Computer Museum (Main)
This event is canceled. We have rescheduled the program for Saturday, August 15 (link). Delve into the wonders of the natural world. Attendees will learn about different types of animal homes and use them to inspire their own creation. Recommended for ages 8-13. This program can accommodate 12 people. 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. Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
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Hive Safety Training (Main)
Are you interested in using The Hive? In this workshop you will learn about our makerspace, how to utilize 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 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.
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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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Summer Fitness: Move Better As You Age: Strength, Balance & Confidence (Main)
This engaging and educational program is led by master fitness trainer, author, and motivational speaker Shaun Zetlin. Designed for teens and adults of all fitness levels, this session explores how to build strength, improve balance, and move with greater confidence in everyday life. Through clear instruction and gentle, accessible demonstrations, participants will learn how simple movement patterns can enhance stability, coordination, and independence over time. Shaun also highlights the connection between physical confidence and emotional well-being, offering practical tools to help individuals feel more secure, capable, and empowered in their daily lives. All exercises are adaptable, with options performed seated or standing, making the program inclusive and approachable for a wide range of abilities. Registration is preferred not required.
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Summer Reading: Arthropod Petting Zoo (Valente)
The Arthropod Petting Zoo is a hands-on, show-and-tell introduction to entomology featuring real live insects and arthropods! While having fun and interacting with genuine crawling critters, kids learn about biology, taxonomy, adaptations, and scientific thinking that real scientists use in the field. Recommended for ages 3-12 and their families. Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
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High Beginner ESOL (Central Square)
Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) class. This class will be taught at a high beginner level. No testing needed. For more information call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
-
Kick Back & Watch a Movie (Central)
Come watch Hoppers (2026) on Central Square Library’s big screen and eat free popcorn!
-
Teen Movie (Valente)
Watch a movie chosen by teen vote. No registration required, drop-in when you can. 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.
-
Fun with Gif-o-Grafs! (Main)
Turn paper cut-outs into animations with the Gif-O-Graf machine! See your stories come to life! No registration required. For elementary-age children and families. Children under 12 must have an adult with them to attend this event.
-
Intermediate English Grammar and Conversation Practice
Come join us at the Central Square Library 45 Pearl Street Cambridge No registration required - just drop in. Small English conversation group and instruction. Ideal for intermediate level.
-
[CANCELED] Summer Reading: BioDesign with the Rhode Island Computer Museum (Main)
This event is canceled. We have rescheduled the program for Saturday, August 15 (link). Delve into the wonders of the natural world. Attendees will learn about different types of animal homes and use them to inspire their own creation. Recommended for ages 8-13. This program can accommodate 12 people. 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. Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
-
Hive Safety Training (Main)
Are you interested in using The Hive? In this workshop you will learn about our makerspace, how to utilize 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 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.
-
High Beginner ESOL (Central Square)
Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) class. This class will be taught at a high beginner level. No testing needed. For more information call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
-
Kick Back & Watch a Movie (Central)
Come watch Hoppers (2026) on Central Square Library’s big screen and eat free popcorn!
-
Teen Movie (Valente)
Watch a movie chosen by teen vote. No registration required, drop-in when you can. 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.