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Dear Patrons,
View "Colors of Ukraine: Folk Art and Resilience" on display on L2 of the Main Library, from 23 through March 8. Curated by Sophia Sushailo, this exhibit highlights the "heroic stoicism and resilience" of the people of Ukraine. The pieces on display were created in the Petrykivka tradition, using an intricate brush made with cat fur. Learn more.
On Wednesday, February 26, at 6:30 p.m., join cartoonist Keith Knight as he explores the way comics have historically been used in social justice movements, cultural storytelling, and speaking truth to power for centuries. Using his own work and the work of others, Keith makes the case that cartooning can be a bridge to understanding, compassion, and even liberation. Registration is required. This event is cosponsored by the Department of Communications, Programs, and Events.
On Wednesday, February 26, at 6 p.m., join us for the latest installment of the "Our Path Forward" Lecture Series, the Cambridge Public Library is thrilled to welcome Valeria Luiselli, the award-winning author of Lost Children Archive, Tell Me How It Ends, and other books. In a time when our already-vulnerable immigrant communities are coming under increased scrutiny and threats to their security, Luiselli is someone who is willing to platform voices from within those very communities. This event is hybrid, and registration is required. Spanish and Haitian Creole translation will be available over Zoom.
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Weekly Activities for Kids
This week, these programs will be offered at our Boudreau, Central Square, Main, O’Connell, O’Neill, and Valente locations.
Book Groups
Learn more about our Book Groups.
The Hive Workshops
Check out this week’s classes in The Hive.
ESOL Classes
Find an ESOL Class.
Tech Help
Wellness for Older Adults: Low-Impact Fitness (Valente)
Monday, February 23
11-11:45 a.m.
This class is designed for people of all levels to strengthen the 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 hybrid event, available online and screened at the Valente Branch. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Monday, Feb. 24; Tuesday, Feb. 25; Wednesday, Feb. 26; Thursday, Feb. 28
3:30-7:30 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 on the iFp website and submit an application.
Nintendo Switch Party (Valente)
Monday, February 24
3:30-5 p.m.
We will be using library consoles to enjoy multiplayer games. This program is for ages 11-14.
This program can accommodate 16 gamers on a first-come, first-serve basis. This program starts promptly, and any unclaimed spots will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4015 for further details.
STEAM Academy: iFp Labs (Main)
Monday, February 24
4:30-6:30 p.m.
In Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Labs, students dive into the exciting world of social robots—machines designed to interact, learn, and connect. From brainstorming ideas to building prototypes, students explore how AI and robotics can foster fairer, more inclusive communities. They design robots that serve as friendly companions, offering support, connection, and solutions to real-world challenges. Teens in 7th and 8th grade are invited to learn more and apply on the iFp website: Innovators for Purpose. Skills Learned: Human-Centered Design, Mechanics, Electronics, Computer Programming, AI, and more.
Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, February 24
5-6 p.m.
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.
Artful Evenings: Open Crafting for Adults (O’Neill)
Monday, February 24, 6-7:30 p.m.
Unleash your creativity at our open crafting program for adults! Bring your own projects or start something new with our assortment of materials and supplies. This self-guided, relaxed environment is perfect for crafting enthusiasts of all levels to enjoy a casual evening and connect with others. Snacks provided! Registration suggested.
Aging Gracefully with Dr. Jin Joo (Main)
Tuesday, February 25
10:30-11:30 a.m.
Come speak with Dr. Jin Hui Joo, a geriatric psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, about how you can maintain and improve your health and well-being as you age. We'll have an engaging discussion about aging gracefully and addressing common challenges faced by older adults. Dr. Jin Joo specializes in the care of older adults' cognitive and emotional health at Massachusetts General Hospital. Registration is required.
Video Conferencing Basics (Zoom Basics) (Boudreau)
Tuesday, February 25
11a.m.-12 p.m.
From online classes to connecting with loved ones, videoconferencing is a great tool. We will cover the basics of Zoom and similar platforms, and make sure you are prepared to join a meeting or start one of your own! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, February 25
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters. Drop in with this informal group to work on your craft, get inspired, pick-up skills, and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, and mend. Refreshments will be provided.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Tuesday, February 25, Wednesday, February 26, and Thursday, February 27
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. No registration is required. Stop by or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.
Teen Advisory Board (Main)
Tuesday, February 25
4-5 p.m.
Teens! Help us plan teen programs for the Library! Earn community service hours! Enjoy free snacks! We meet monthly during the school year. No registration is required. Stop by the Teen Room or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, February 25
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters. Registration is not required.
Baby Signs with Sheryl White (Valente)
Wednesday February 26
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Join Sheryl White of Baby Kneads for an introduction to sign language for caregivers and babies. In this one-hour class, participants will:
Learn the benefits of signing with babies
Learn and practice several signs
Watch the instructor sign with your baby
Learn how to teach American Sign Language to your child
This program is appropriate for babies two months of age or older and pre-verbal. The program can accommodate 15 babies and their caregivers; multiple caregivers are welcome. Please contact the Library if you will be bringing more than one child, including an older sibling. Registration is required and begins on Monday, February 17. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4015 for more information. Funding for this program has been generously provided by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-In (O'Connell)
Wednesday, February 26
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters Drop-in with this informal group to work on your craft, get inspired, pick up skills and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, mend, cross stitch and more. All crafts are welcome!
Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, February 26
2:30-4 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 required. This week we will make scribble art using crayons, markers, and colored pencils.
Read to a Dog (O'Connell)
Wednesday, February 26
4-5 p.m.
Read with Bowie the Therapy Dog from Pets & People! Therapy dogs provide warm and non-judgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers of all ages. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required and begins a week in advance. Sign up by phone or in person at the O'Connell Branch (617-349-4019).
Tween Hang Out (Main)
Wednesday, February 26
4-4:45 p.m.
Every Wednesday from 4 – 4:45 PM we’re opening up the Curious George Room on the third floor for ages 10 –12 to snack, craft, relax, and play video games. We invite all tweens to make this space their own! There are no tickets or registration required. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.
Evening Family Story Time: Black History Month (O’Connell)
Wednesday, February 26, 5:30-6 p.m.
We invite children and their grown-ups to join us for a special Black History Month evening story time event. This program will run for 20-25 minutes, with songs, stories and rhymes. No registration is required. Please call 617-349-4019 for more information.
iPhone and iPad Essentials (Main)
Wednesday, February 26
6-7 p.m.
Want to learn more about the basic functions of an iPhone or iPad? Learn how to get online, identify common apps, and build your confidence in using your device safely. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please visit tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Aging with Mindfulness (Virtual)
Thursday, February 27
9-10 a.m.
This program, led by Zeenat Potia, will introduce and utilize mindfulness techniques to help us examine and regulate everyday life changes with a focus on aging. Participants will learn and benefit from the development of a mindfulness practice to enable responding to getting older in a calm, clear and thoughtful manner.
Presented in Partnership with Cambridge Insight Meditation Center (CIMC). Rooted in the Theravada Buddhist tradition, CIMC is a welcoming refuge and teaching Center for all who seek inner peace through the liberating practice of Insight Meditation (vipassana). As an urban center, and now as an online community, CIMC is dedicated to the integration of practice into every aspect of community and daily life. Visit the CIMC Website. Registration is required. This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
Creative Aging: Improv (Main)
Thursday, February 27
1:30-3:30 p.m.
A series of classes with instruction from Comedian Jack Grey. Learn how to seamlessly integrate interactive improv games, scenes, and skillful storytelling that all come together with performance. The 10-week course will take place every Thursday, from 1:30pm-3:30pm, starting February 27 through May 1. This will be an in-person program at the Main Library. Space is limited to 15 participants. Due to the popularity and to gain the most out of this program, we expect all participants to commit to all sessions in this 10-week course. Instructor Jack Grey is a local comedy performer with over nine years of combined improv and stand-up comedy experience. They produce their own shows and workshops in Camberville, believing that kindness and community can be born from laughter. Learn more at constellationcomedy.com. Registration is required. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, February 27
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies and a jigsaw puzzle. An hour of fun and conversation on a Thursday afternoon at the Cambridge Main Library.
CPL Nature Club: Danehy Park Winter Plant Walk (O'Neill)
Thursday, February 27
4-5:30 p.m.
Join herbalist Mo Katz-Christy for a meander through Danehy park to meet wintertime city plants and explore their medicinal uses! We will explore weeds and cultivated plants, trees and shrubs, and have lots of space for questions and conversation. Bring a notebook if you like and meet us at the parking lot on Sherman Street (if you're late you should be able to find us -- we won't move too far too fast!). Registration is required. Rain Date: March 6.
Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)
Thursday, February 27
4-5 p.m.
Bring your project and join other fiber crafters in your community! Crochet, sew, embroider, knit, cross stitch, spin, mend, and more at this informal drop-in fiber arts circle. All crafts are welcome!
Wellness for Older Adults: Zumba Gold (Main)
Friday, February 28
9:15-10 a.m.
Join instructor Darren Hairston for Zumba Gold – the fun and energizing dance fitness class tailored for active older adults and beginners! Set to vibrant, upbeat music, Zumba Gold features low-impact, easy-to-follow dance moves that make staying fit enjoyable and accessible for all fitness levels. Improve your balance, flexibility, and cardio health while having a great time in a supportive and friendly environment. No dance experience needed—just bring your smile and a willingness to move! Registration is required.
Baby Sign with Sheryl White of Baby Kneads (Main)
Friday, February 28
10-11 a.m.
Join Sheryl White of Baby Kneads for an introduction to sign language for caregivers and babies. In this one-hour class, participants will:
Learn the benefits of signing with babies
Learn and practice several signs
Watch the instructor sign with your baby
Learn how to teach American Sign Language to your child
This program is appropriate for babies two months of age or older and pre-verbal. The program can accommodate 15 babies and their caregivers; multiple caregivers are welcome. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. This program starts promptly. Unclaimed spots will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information. Funding for this program has been generously provided by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
Coffee and Games for Adults (Valente)
Friday, February 28
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Join us on the fourth Friday of the month for coffee, treats, and games (Chess, Cribbage, Rummikub, etc.). Bring a friend or meet a new one at the library!
Collage Bookmark Making for Adults (Valente)
Friday, February 28
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Join us for making paper-based collage bookmarks. We will provide materials; feel free to bring your own as well.
Expressive Arts for Older Adults: Open Studio (Main)
Friday, February 28
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Looking for a space to unleash your creativity? Join instructor Marguerite White, Friday afternoons January 10 through February 28, for two hours each week to work on a drawing or watercolor project of your choice. A still-life arrangement and basic supplies will be provided. If you have any questions, please reach out to Brynne Quinlan at bquinlan@cambridgema.gov or (617)349-4035. Registration required for each session.
Kids’ Zine Collective (O’Neill)
Friday, February 28
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. Making zines will include activities like writing, drawing, and using a photocopier. For kids ages 7 and up. Snacks are provided!
Trans Stories Read Aloud (Central Square)
Friday, February 28
4-5 p.m.
Join the Cambridge LGBTQ+ Commission and the Cambridge Public Library for the 10th Anniversary Welcoming Schools National Day of Reading: A Celebration of Trans Stories. At this all-ages story time, librarians will read aloud from books that support and affirm transgender and non-binary youth and celebrate gender diversity for everyone. Refreshments provided. Registration helpful.
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Stay Connected
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All the best!
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries
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About the Cambridge Public Library:
At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds, and empower community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives and democracy thrives. The Library’s programming provides an opportunity for civic dialogue, conversation, and learning, which includes exploring a wide range of views. Visit our website to learn more. Subscribe to our email list to stay up to date on our events here.
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