Programs hosted by the Library provide an opportunity for civic dialogue, conversation, and learning, which includes exploring a wide-range of views. Programs do not constitute an endorsement of beliefs by the Library, Library staff, the Library's Board of Trustees, or the City of Cambridge. Please contact Zachary Bond at zbond@cambridgema.gov with questions about Library programs and events.
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.
Events
Displaying 1-15 of 25 results
September 26
Saturday
9:30 AM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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 as we will not spend time reviewing the basic mechanics of sewing.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
11:30 AM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Are you an intermediate or advanced sewer? This class will cover serger machine setup, threading a serger, and identifying correct tension settings with different types of fabric. You will learn about ways to use our Elna Extend 864 Air serger to take your sewing skills to the next level by producing special finishing styles, hemming, trimming and assembling your garments. Up to two patrons can register for this class.
This class is designed for patrons who have prior experience using a sewing machine to complete many types of fiber arts projects. If you are new to machine sewing, we recommend you take our Sewing 101 workshop before using our serger.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
2:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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.
September 28
Monday
1:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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.
3:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
In this 90-minute 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 sewing project—a drawstring bag—which most students will be able to complete by the end of the class.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. If you have not completed the training, you will be removed from the class—even if you plan to take it later. To take Safety Training, come to The Hive during Open Shop to watch a ten-minute video or take a Safety Training class. Check hours on our calendar: [link].
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
3:30 PM
O'Neill Branch, 70 Rindge Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140
Kids in 6th, 7th and 8th grade can come to the Library to make magnets to decorate their lockers! Snacks provided. No registration necessary.
4:00 PM
Main Library, Curious George Room, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
It's a weekly block party! Join friends to design and build amazing LEGO structures. Let your imagination run wild! For children ages 5 and up (children under age 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver).
The Children's Room has plenty of LEGO pieces, so you don't need to bring your own. LEGO pieces are choking hazards for young children. This program can accommodate 30 builders. . 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.
4:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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. Young people are invited to learn more and apply on the iFp website.
6:00 PM
O'Neill Branch, 70 Rindge Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140
Join S-Cube Diplomacy and the O’Neill Branch Library for a multigenerational STEAM program exploring how plants, pollinators, soil, and people work together in a healthy native garden. Families, youth, adult learners, and community members will learn how pollinator gardens support biodiversity, climate health, and connection through storytelling, observation, and hands-on reflection.
September 29
Tuesday
1:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Learn how to use our Epilog Zing—an industry-standard laser cutting machine. Complete this workshop to earn a badge for the Zing laser cutter. With a badge, you can reserve the Epilog Zing to use on our equipment booking page at designated times.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
3:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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.
3:30 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Cambridge is home to over 80 species of edible wild plants, some of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. These include native species like Fox Grape and Shagbark Hickory; non-native weeds like Chicory and Burdock; and invasive species like Japanese Knotweed and Autumn Olive. Join expert forager Russ Cohen on a 2.5 hour ramble around Fresh Pond to learn about over two dozen species of edible wild plants. Keys to the identification of each species will be provided, along with info on edible portion(s), season(s) of availability and preparation methods, as well as guidelines for safe, ethical and environmentally-responsible foraging.
NOTE that this is an educational walk only: no actual foraging will take place, as that activity is prohibited with in the Fresh Pond Reservation.
We will meet at Fresh Pond, in the main parking lot by the ranger station and water department.
Russ Cohen is a naturalist and wild foods enthusiast from Weston, Mass., currently in his 52nd year of leading walks and talks about wild edibles. He has led talks for the Massachusetts Audubon Society, the New England Forestry Foundation, and The Trustees of Reservations. Russ' foraging book, Wild Plants I Have Known...and Eaten, is now in its ninth printing. Russ has taken on the role of Johnny Appleseed for edible native species, collaborating with land trusts, cities and towns, and other groups (including one in Cambridge) to plant plants from his nursery in appropriate places on their properties.
4:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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. Young people are invited to learn more and apply on the iFp website.
7:30 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
September 30
Wednesday
10:15 AM
Collins Branch, 64 Aberdeen Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138
Join us for a morning walk at one of the most renowned bird watching spots in Cambridge, Mount Auburn Cemetery! We will help you identify birds, learn birdwatching tips and tricks, and familiarize yourself with migratory birds as well as those that can be spotted all year round. A limited supply of binoculars will be available.
The walk will meet at the Collins Branch Library at 64 Aberdeen Ave at 10:15 am. We will walk to Mt. Auburn Cemetery together (about a five minute walk). Please try to be on time as we will leave shortly after 10:15!
Registration is required. This event can only accommodate a certain number of participants. One registration is good for one person. If you do not register, you cannot participate. Those on the waitlist will be contacted if a space becomes available.