Director's Update, April 27, 2025

Dear Patrons, 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. In the upcoming month, we have several events dedicated to raising awareness and having important conversations about mental health struggles.

On Thursday, May 1, join NAMI Cambridge/Middlesex and the Cambridge Public Library for an unflinching look at healthcare on the margins as Dr. Jim O’Connell, founding physician and President of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) shares stories, insights, and hard truths from a lifetime spent caring for patients. Registration is required. 

On Tuesday, May 6, join the Cambridge Public Health Department, the Community Safety Department, and the Cambridge Public Library for Building a Caring Community, a panel discussion that aims to raise awareness about how to access national, state, and local resources. Light refreshments and childcare will be provided. No registration required.

Best,

Maria McCauley, Ph.D.

Director of Libraries

 

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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: Chair Yoga (Central)
Monday, April 28
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join us each Monday at the Central Square Branch for Chair Yoga, led by experienced instructor Louise Parker. This is an in-person program taking place in the Lewis Room at Central Square. Registration is required for each session. Louise Parker has been practicing yoga for close to 20 years. She is trained in the Yoga Shanti method of practice, which is rooted in the Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga traditions.

Wellness for Older Adults: Let Your Yoga Dance (Virtual)
Monday, April 28
11-11:45 a.m.

A fun, dynamic, and ultimately blissful class. We'll work our way through the seven energy centers (chakras) with Let Your Yoga Dance. You will leave with a good workout and a peaceful happy mind/body/spirit. Good for everybody! This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event. Registration for each session is required.

Drop-In Hours with the Social Worker (Central Square)
Monday, April 28
2-5 p.m.

Get support from our Library social worker!

STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Monday, April 28; Tuesday, April 29; Wednesday, April 30, and Thursday, May 1
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.

We Love Reading (Valente)
Monday, April 28
4-4:50 p.m.

Celebrate reading with fellow new readers at the Valente Branch Library! We will explore a book from the Beginning Reader collection, spend time reading together, and do an activity! Copies of the book will be provided via the library; participants may check out a copy to take home after the program. This is open to students in kindergarten through second grade who are practicing reading independently; their grown-ups are welcome to join us.Registration is required.

STEAM Academy: iFp Labs (Main)
Monday, April 28
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, April 28
5-6 p.m.

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: Social Crafting for Adults (O’Neill)
Monday, April 28
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.

Introduction to Rewilding: Mindfulness and Nature as a Path to Calm (Central)
Tuesday, April 29
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Come once or join every workshop in this 6-part series to explore the concept of "Shinrin-yoku" (“forest bathing”) which is the practice of being mindful and contemplative within nature, using all your senses.  The experiential portion of the workshops will focus on our senses one at a time, workshop-by-workshop, through simple mindfulness exercises, gentle guided nature imagery, and other grounding activities that promote relaxation and (re-)connection with ourselves and with nature. Registration is required.

Paint Party (O’Connell)
Tuesday, April 29
2-5 p.m.

Treat yourself to an afternoon of fun, creativity, and community while a local artist guides us step-by-step through the process of creating a beautiful acrylic painting. We'll provide the tea and light refreshments. No experience necessary. All are welcome. Acrylic paint can stain clothing. Please wear old clothing. This event is full, but a waitlist is available.

Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, April 29
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.

Teen Advisory Board (Main)
Tuesday, April 29
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.

Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Tuesday, April 29, Wednesday, April 30, and Thursday, May 1
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.

Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, April 29
6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Pajama Story Time (O’Neill)
Tuesday, April 29
6:45-7:30 p.m.

Come to the Library in your pajamas to listen to stories, read with your children, and enjoy a snack before bed! This program is recommended for children of all ages and their caregivers. Pajama Story Time is presented by the Cambridge Public Library and the Center for Families.

Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-In (O'Connell)
Wednesday, April 30
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!

Expressive Arts for Older Adults: Open Studio (Main)
Wednesday, April 30
1:30-3:30 p.m.

Looking for a space to unleash your creativity? Join instructor Marguerite White, Wednesday afternoons March 5 through April 30 (No group on April 2), 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. Registration required for each session. If you have any questions, please reach out to Brynne Quinlan at bquinlan@cambridgema.gov or (617)349-4041.

Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, April 30
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 a chalk mural!

Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (Valente)
Wednesday, April 30
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.

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

Read to Dante, our local cuddly therapy dog! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and non-judgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 15-minute time slot is required and begins on Wednesday, April 16 by calling or visiting the Valente Branch (617-349-4015). 

Read to a Dog (O’Connell)
Wednesday, April 30
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).

Evening Family Story Time (O’Connell)
Wednesday, April 30
5:30-6 p.m.

We invite children and their grown-ups to join us for a special 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.

Budgeting with Google Sheets (Virtual)
Wednesday, April 30
6-7 p.m.

Learn how to use Google Sheets - Google's version of Excel! You will learn how to create a sheet and enter data in a friendly learning environment. A Gmail account is required for this class - please remember your password!

To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass. This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event. Registration is encouraged, but not required.

Trivia Night! (O’Neill)
Wednesday, April 30
6:15-7 p.m.

Come join us for Trivia Night! Test your knowledge of science, history, literature, and culture. Snacks will be provided. Individuals and groups are welcome. Registration is helpful, but not required.

CPL Nature Club: Elder Walks (O’Neill)
Thursday, May 1
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join guide Stefanie Haug while exploring our neighborhood nature and celebrating Elderhood. As a group we'll connect with nature and the neighborhood mindfully with a gentle walk and draw on contemplative practices. What to bring: layered clothing, comfortable shoes and water. Where to meet: O'Neill entrance on Rindge Avenue. Registration is required.

Creative Aging: Improv (Main)
Thursday, May 1
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. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a wait list is available. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.

Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, May 1
2:30-3:30 p.m.

Join our librarians for tea, cookies and a jigsaw puzzle. An hour of fun and conversation on a Monday afternoon at the Cambridge Main Library.

Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)
Thursday, May 1
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!

Propagate and Populate: Plant Swap (Central Square)
Thursday, May 1
6:30-7:30 p.m.

Calling all plant lovers! Add some green into your home! Bring your own plants to share propagules with others or come to pot a new plant baby for your home collection. We'll have a small collection of house plant propagules, along with soil and plastic planting containers. Attendees are welcome to bring their own pots as well.

Mental Illness, Homelessness, and the Struggle for Care on Boston’s Streets: An Evening with Dr. Jim O’Connell (Main)
Thursday, May 1
7-8:30 p.m.

Join NAMI Cambridge/Middlesex and the Cambridge Public Library for an unflinching look at healthcare on the margins as Dr. Jim O’Connell, founding physician and President of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) shares stories, insights, and hard truths from a lifetime spent caring for patients. Registration is required. 

Overflow Study and Hang (Central Square)
Friday, May 2
3-5 p.m.

Drop in the Central Square Branch’s Lewis Room for extra space to study and hang out. Supplies will be provided to color, do puzzles, and play games. No registration required!  

Kids’ Zine Collective (O’Neill)
Friday, May 2
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!

Librarian Office Hours (Main)
Saturday, May 3
11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Visit with our librarians in this informal session – no appointment needed! We can connect you to the reliable information you need and the popular entertainment you want. Come with your questions or let us guide you to some hidden gems.

The Poop Museum Part 2: Even More Poop! (Main)
Saturday, May 3
11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Are you curious about poop? This program goes down the sewer, out into space, deep under the sea and back to the time of the dinosaurs to explore what happens to all of our poop. Recommended for children ages 5-10 years old and their caregivers.

CPL and the Central Square Theater Present: Her Pormanteau (Main)
Saturday, May 3
2-4 p.m.

Written By Mfoniso Udofia and directed by Tasia A. Jones, Her Portmanteauis an explosive story of betrayal and forgiveness, centering on a Nigerian mother in the U.S. and her two daughters who lived very different lives. A reunion forces them to reconcile their past, full of clashing traditions and a family legacy that spans time, culture and generations. Produced by Central Square Theater and The Front Porch Arts Collective. Cosponsored by Cambridge Public Library and the Citizens' Committee on Civic Unity. Registration is required.

Saturday Songs and Stories (O’Neill)
Saturday May 3
3:30-4 p.m.

Music, movement and stories! Join librarians for 20 minutes of fun! For children of all ages and their grown-ups.

 

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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.