Director's Update, September 14, 2025

Dear Patrons, 

September 15 to October 15 is Latine Heritage Month, which celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of the Latine community. We’re excited to be holding some exciting events this month! 

 

On Wednesday, September 17, 4-4:45 p.m., children can make their own papel picado ("pecked paper") inspired by beautiful folk art examples from Mexico. Recommended for children ages 7 years old and up and their caregivers. Registration is not required for this event.

 

On Thursday, October 9, we will host Alejandro Varela for a reading and discussion of his new novel, Middle Spoon. Registration is required. 

 

On Tuesday, October 14, we’ll welcome Gladys Vega, the Executive Director of La Collaborativa in Chelsea, MA, to speak about the importance of community organizing and activism in the Latine community. Registration is required. 

 

Upcoming Events

On Monday, September 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Join us for a hands-on workshop at the Cambridge Public Library to learn about Cambridge’s open data portal. Explore what's available and learn how to analyze and visualize this data — including how to use AI tools for data exploration. Register online here.

 

On Saturday, September 20, 12-1 p.m., find your next great read at the Central Square Book Brunch! Spend 5 minutes with each title before rotating to the next. Snacks will be provided. Registration is helpful but not required. 

 

On, Saturday, September 20, 3-3:30 p.m., take a guided Tactile Talk featuring artist Randal Thurston’s transformation of a once-dark tunnel into a welcoming passageway with painted steel silhouettes and textured tilework. Meet at the corner of Yerxa Road and Pemberton Street. Registration is 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.  

• Sing Alongs 

• Story Times 

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                    

• One-on-One Tech Help

Aging with Mindfulness (Virtual)
Monday, September 15
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.

Wellness for Older Adults: Let Your Yoga Dance (Virtual)
Monday, September 8
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! Registration for each session is required. This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.

Meditation Mondays (Central Square)
Monday, September 15
12-1 p.m.

Start your week off right with some meditation at the Central Square Library. Led by the Library Social Worker, Brett Dixon, we combine gentle breathwork, visualization practice and mindful meditation, for a relaxing and recharging experience.

New to Medicare Workshop (Main)
Monday, September 15
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 17
6-8 p.m.

Led by a Minuteman Senior Services state-certified Medicare benefits counselor, this program is for people who are turning 65 or leaving an employer group health plan due to retirement. Topics include Medicare benefits and coverage gaps, when to apply for Medicare, how to apply for Medicare, health insurance plans that work with Medicare, understanding premiums, deductibles and maximum out of pocket costs, and choosing the right supplement plan. It also covers special considerations and the consequences of not enrolling at the right time. Registration is requested but not required.

Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, September 15
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.

Back-to-School Backpack Decorating (O'Neill)
Monday, September 15
3:30-5 p.m.

Kids in 6th, 7th and 8th grade can come to the Library to make keychains to decorate your backpack! Snacks provided. No registration necessary.

STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Monday, September 15
Tuesday, September 16
Wednesday, September 18
Thursday, September 15
4-7 p.m.

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.

Cambridge Open Data Class (Main)
Monday, September 15
5:30-6:30 p.m.

The City of Cambridge offers free access to hundreds of datasets on its Open Data Portal, covering everything from crime and traffic to property and even dog names. Join us for a hands-on workshop at the Cambridge Public Library to explore what's available and learn how to analyze and visualize this data — including how to use AI tools for data exploration. No prior experience or expertise is required. Register online here.

Shahir S. Rizk and Maggie M. Fink present: The Color of North (Main)
Monday, September 15
6-7:30 p.m.

Cambridge Public Library, Harvard Book Store, the Harvard University Division of Science, and the Harvard Library, welcome Shahir S. Rizk—Associate Professor of Biochemistry at Indiana University South Bend and the Indiana University School of Medicine—and Maggie M. Fink—Adjunct Professor at Indiana University South Bend and a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Notre Dame—for a discussion of their new book The Color of North: The Molecular Language of Proteins and the Future of Life. Registration is required.

Heat Awareness for Older Adults (Main)
Tuesday, September 16
10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Join Nancy Porter, Director of Resilience and Emergency Preparedness with the Cambridge Public Health Department, for a discussion on how to keep yourselves and others safe in hotter temperatures.  Older adults are more vulnerable in periods of high temperatures because the body cools itself down less effectively - especially if you have medical conditions or take certain medications. Registration requested but not required.

Google Calendar Basics (Main)
Tuesday, September 16
11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Google Calendar can help you stay organized. Learn how to schedule meetings, create tasks, and manage events with Google Calendar.  A Google (Gmail) account is required for the class. Please remember your email address and password, you will need them to sign in and practice during the class.  Laptops will be provided for the class. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass. Registration is encouraged but not required.

Wellness for Older Adults: Chair Yoga (Central)
Tuesday, September 16
1:30-2:30 p.m.

Join us each Tuesday afternoon at the Central Square Branch for Chair Yoga, led by experienced instructor Louise Parker.  No equipment needed. This is an in-person program taking place in the Lewis Room at Central Square.  Registration is required for each session. 

Sit ‘n’ Knit (Main)
Tuesday, September 16
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, mend. Refreshments will be provided.

Wellness for Older Adults: Low-impact Fitness (Main)
Tuesday, September 16
3:15-4 p.m.

This class is designed for people of all levels to strengthen the muscles, the heart and 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 for each session is required. This is an in-person event in the Community Room of the Main Library. 

Drop-In Tech Help at the Library (Central Square)
Tuesday, September 16
3:30-5:30 p.m.
Friday, September 19
11 a.m-1 p.m.

Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want help using an online resource? Need someone to read your resume and support navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in help hours between 4 and 6pm. No registration required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov.

CPL Nature Club: Cambridge Birds and How to Draw Them with Clare Walker Leslie (Collins Branch)
Tuesday, September 16
5:30-6:30 p.m.

Join local author Clare Walker Leslie (How to Look at a Bird, Keeping a Nature Journal) to learn how to draw Cambridge birds! Participants will discuss birds local to Cambridge, learn how to draw the birds they see every day, and leave the program with their own finished bird drawing. All drawing and reference materials will be provided and all skill levels are welcome, no previous drawing experience required. If you don't think you can draw a bird, that's okay - this event will show you that you can! Registration is required for this program. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. This program is suggested for participants ages 8 and up.

Daniel Pollack-Pelzner presents Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist (Main)
Tuesday, September 16
6-7:30 p.m.

Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library welcome Daniel Pollack-Pelzner—cultural historian, theater critic, and professor of English and theater at Portland State University—for a discussion of his highly anticipated biography of Broadway superstar Lin-Manuel Miranda, titled Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist. He will be joined in conversation by Dani Snyder-Young—esteemed Northeastern University theater professor, who appears in Lin-Manuel Miranda as his director for the Wesleyan production of Jesus Christ Superstar that launched him into collegiate superstardom. Registration is required.

Board Game Night for Adults (Central Square)
Tuesday, September 16
6-7:30 p.m.

Join us for an evening of board games. We have: Wingspan, Ticket to Ride, Settlers of Catan, Azul, Splendor, Scrabble, chess, checkers, Bananagrams, and more! Feel free to bring a board game to play with others. We will provide pizza and beverages. Registration helpful.

Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, September 16
6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Death Cafe (Virtual)
Tuesday, September 16
7-8 p.m.

Join us for a virtual Death Cafe - an evening of open, lively, and insightful discussion about death for adults aged 18 and older. While not a support group nor a venue for bereavement, a Death Cafe seeks to provide an unscripted, non-judgmental platform for those wishing to explore the many facets of this often-taboo subject. Facilitated by Richard Davis, a long time Death Cafe organizer and hospice volunteer. Come with an open mind, a healthy curiosity, and a willingness to share your thoughts, feelings, and questions with other like-minded individuals. This is a virtual event on Zoom. Space is limited.  Questions? Contact Daryl at dcabrol@cambridgema.gov. Registration is required.

Wellness for Older Adults: Tai Chi Paradigm - Intermediate (Main) 
Wednesday, September 17
10-11 a.m.

Join us in this twelve-week Tai Chi Paradigm practice, which focuses on the mind and body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low impact routine.  This is an in-person event at the Main Library. Due to the popularity of Sifu Diaz's classes, we expect participants to attend all sessions and participation in this program will be decided by lottery. Registration is required. This program is full; a waitlist is available.

Smartphone Photography [55+] (Main)
Wednesday, September 17
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

We live in an age where we carry our smartphones everywhere we go. Built into this device is a camera that can help us document the world around us. This 12-week class will not only teach you to take the best possible photos, but how to edit your photos to make them look as good as they possibly can. You need only bring two things to this class: your smartphone and your imagination. Registration is required. This session is full; a waitlist is available.

Fiber Crafts Group – Drop-In (O’Connell)
Wednesday, September 17
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!

CPL Nature Club: Nature Story Time at Alewife Brook Reservation (O'Neill)
Wednesday, September 17
11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Children and families can join us for an outdoor story time and short walk at Alewife Brook Reservation. We will meet at the seating area on the bike path near the Alewife Brook Pathway and DCR Wetland Boardwalk: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CC32nJqG1Xk3b5zDA. There is no parking available on-site. Parking is available at Alewife MBTA station or limited on-street parking on Cambridgepark Drive. No registration is required. In case of bad weather, this event will be cancelled and the listing will be updated on the website. Please call 617-349-4023 with any questions, including day-of weather cancellations.

Creative Aging: Intermediate Improv (Main)
Wednesday, September 17
1:30-3:30 p.m.

A series of classes with instruction from Comedian Jack Grey for individuals with some improv experience. Learn how to seamlessly integrate interactive improv games, scenes, and skillful storytelling that all come together with performance. This will be an in-person program at the Main Library. Space is limited to 15 participants. Registration is required.

Vegetable Fermentation for Gut Health (Central Square)
Wednesday, September 17
2-4 p.m.

What’s all this fuss about fermented foods? Why are fermented foods essential for gut health, and why are they so expensive? In this class, Mo Katz-Christy will walk you through how to use any old vegetables to make delicious and nutritious fermented foods that replenish the microbiome, regulate our immune system, and more! Leave with a jar of kraut that you can share with your household.

Mo Katz-Christy (they/them) is a queer Ashkenazi Jewish herbalist born and raised in Cambridge, MA on unceded Massachusett land. They approach herbalism by connecting folks to the knowledge they already have about their body and herbs through working with kitchen medicine, ancestral traditions, and mulberries falling on the sidewalk! Registration is required.

Wednesday of Wonder – W.O.W. (O’Neill)
Wednesday, September 17
3:30-5 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 be making comics!

One-on-One Tech Help by Appointment (O'Connell)
Wednesday, September 17
2:30-3 p.m.

Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to learn how to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by at the O'Connell Branch Library for a tech help appointment! Sessions will be limited to 30-minutes for each patron. 

We can help you with: 

• accessing library eBooks, audiobooks, and other eResources on your devices
• e-mail and searching the web 
• smartphone and mobile app questions

We are not able to help you with: 

• installing advanced software programs 
• completing online transactions for you
• computer hardware and technical maintenance 

Registration is strongly encouraged but not required. If you have any questions, please contact 617-349-4019

Drop in Tech Help at the Library (O'Connell)
Wednesday, September 17
3:15-4:45 p.m.

Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want help using an online resource? Need someone to read your resume and support navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in help hours between 3:15p.m. and 4:45p.m. No registration required.

 

Papel Picado (Main)
Wednesday, September 17
4-4:45 p.m.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by making your own papel picado ("pecked paper") inspired by beautiful folk art examples from Mexico. We will provide the tissue paper and scissors, you bring your imagination! Recommended for children ages 7 years old and up and their caregivers. Registration is not required for this event.

Alphabet Craft Time (O'Connell)

Wednesday, September 17
5:30-6:30 p.m.

Come hear stories and songs about things that start with the letter A. and make a paper alligator to take home. 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.

 

CPL Nature Club: Elder Walks (Central) 
Thursday, September 18
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. Registration is required.

What to bring: layered clothing, comfortable shoes and water.
Where to meet: Central Square Branch lobby. 

Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, September 18
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.

Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)
Thursday, September 18
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!

Gel Pen Doodles and Notes (Collins)
Thursday, September 18
4-5 p.m.

Drop in for an after-school activity. Have you ever tried drawing or writing with gel pens? These vivid and luminous colored inks add pizzazz to doodles, notes and more. See how they pop on contrasting dark papers. Recommended for children ages 6-12 and their caregivers.

Healthy Mouth, Healthy Life (Main)
Thursday, September 18
6-8 p.m.

The Harvard School of Dental Medicine’s Students for Smiles Club and the Cambridge Public Library are hosting a free community event on oral health. Attendees will learn how to brush and floss the right way through a short talk and hands-on practice. The program will also share simple tips for preventing common dental problems and explain when to see a dentist. Free toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and local dental care resources will be available for everyone. Registration is required.

Crafting for Queer Mental Health with the LGBTQ+ Commission (Central Square) 
Thursday, September 18
6:30-8 p.m.

Join the Cambridge LGBTQ+ Commission, NAMI Massachusetts, and the Central Square Branch Library for a casual crafting evening. Time to unwind, be creative, build community -- all are welcome. Craft supplies provided or bring your own project; free snacks and refreshments; info about local mental health resources; no registration required- join when you can!

Wellness for Older Adults: Tai Chi Paradigm - Beginner (Main)
Friday, September 19
10-11 a.m.

Join us in this twelve-week Tai Chi Paradigm practice, which focuses on the mind and body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low impact routine. This program is full; a waitlist is available. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.

Wellness for Older Adults: Zumba Gold (Main)
Friday, September 19
11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.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. This program is full; a waitlist is available.

Cozy Crafternoon (Collins)
Friday, September 19
3:30-5 p.m.

Come get creative at Collins! Join your neighbors at this casual, self-guided afternoon craft session for adults. Bring your own projects or start something new with assorted materials provided. No expertise required, snacks provided, registration encouraged.

Kids' Zine Collective (O'Neill) 
Friday, September 19
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!

Arts Collective: Press and Paint (Main)
Saturday, September 20
12-1:30 p.m.

Have you ever wanted to design your own custom nail set? Well come to the Library and dive into the world of nail art. Local licensed nail tech, Munah of Fine Geh Glam, will guide you in this fun and creative art class. You will learn about proper nail care and treatments and leave with a one-of-a-kind nail set of your own. All supplies will be provided by the Library. 

Book Brunch (Central Square) 
Saturday, September 20
12-1 p.m.

Find your next great read! In this program, we will be sampling books from our Central Square adult collection. Spend 5 minutes with each title before rotating to the next. Snacks will be provided. Registration is helpful but not required.

Time Out for Public Art Tactile Talks: Yerxa Road Underpass (Main)
Saturday, September 20
3-3:30 p.m.

Join us for a guided 30-minute Tactile Talk featuring artist Randal Thurston’s transformation of a once-dark tunnel into a welcoming passageway with painted steel silhouettes and textured tilework. We will meet at the corner of Yerxa Road and Pemberton Street. This event is part of our Time Out for Public Art series in collaboration with Cambridge Arts. In September, these will be Tactile Talks, shorter visits perfect for all ages and abilities. Registration is required.

 

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Stay Connected                      

Please subscribe to our e-mail list, follow us on X, Instagram, or Facebook, and visit our website.         

  

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.