Director's Update, October 5, 2025

Dear Patrons, 

 

This week is Banned Books Week! Celebrate the freedom to read this week with some special events, including an all-ages Banned Books Story Time and Book Picnic at the Central Square Branch and a Banned Books-themed Wednesdays of Wonder at the O’Neill Branch. Need a book recommendation? Check out our staff's favorite banned books.

 

I also invite you to participate in Let Freedom Read Day on Saturday, October 11, a national day of action in support of intellectual freedom. Contact your representatives, attend a local event, post on social media, support advocacy organizations, and check out a banned book! Visit uniteagainstbookbans.org to learn more about how you can help protect the right to read. 

 

Yesterday, I spoke at Canton Public Library for their Book Challenge Discussion Panel and Read-In. I had a wonderful conversation with other intellectual freedom advocates. Change happens when we work together.

 

The City of Cambridge has launched the 12^th cycle of Participatory Budgeting (PB) and is seeking your ideas for how to spend $1 million on projects to improve your community. Community members can submit ideas now through October 12, 2025 by visiting pb.cambridgema.gov, emailing ideas to pb@cambridgema.gov, or calling the Budget Office at 617-349-4270. If you are interested in getting more involved in the PB process, the Budget Office is recruiting volunteer PB Delegates to research and review all submitted PB ideas to prepare them for the PB ballot. Visit pb.cambridgma.gov to learn more about PB and volunteering as a PB Delegate.

Upcoming Events

On Monday, October 6, from 6-7:30 p.m. join former Washington bureau chief of The New York Times Philip Taubman and Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Taubman for a captivating and authoritative psychological portrait of Robert S. McNamara, Secretary of Defense during the Kennedy Administration and architect of the Vietnam War. Informed by newly discovered diaries, letters, and interviews with those closest to him, the authors uncover an emotionally tortured man—a man who mastered everything in life, until the Vietnam War. Registration is required.

On Thursday, October 9, from 6-8 p.m., join the Cambridge Public Library in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by welcoming Alejandro Varela, the author of three books of fiction, including The Town of Babylon, which was nominated for a National Book Award, and Middle Spoon, published just this September. Middle Spoon, which Publisher's Weekly called a "refreshingly candid tale of modern love," follows a married middle-aged gay man as he struggles to move on from a break-up with his boyfriend. After reading from his work, Varela will sit in conversation with Ursula Villarreal-Moura, the author of Like Happiness. An audience Q&A and book signing will follow. 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, October 6
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. 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, October 6
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 is required for each session. 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, October 6
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.

Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, October 6
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. 

CPL Presents: McNamara at War with authors Philip and William Taubman (Main)
Monday, October 6
6-7:30 p.m.

Former Washington bureau chief of The New York Times Philip Taubman and Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Taubman deliver a captivating and authoritative psychological portrait of Robert S. McNamara. Informed by newly discovered diaries, letters, and interviews with those closest to him, the authors uncover an emotionally tortured man—a man who mastered everything in life, until the Vietnam War mastered him.

Navigating websites - managing search and filter options (Main)
Tuesday, October 7
11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Do you sometimes struggle to find the information you need from websites? In this class, you’ll learn helpful tips and tricks to search more effectively, use filters and sorting tools, and explore other features.  To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass. Registration is encouraged but not required. 

Paint Party at the Library (O'Connell) 
Tuesday, October 7
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. Seating is limited to 8. Registration is required and will open September 23. Registration is required. This program is full; a waitlist is available.

Sit ‘n’ Knit (Main)
Tuesday, October 7
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: Chair Yoga (Central)
Tuesday, October 7
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. 

Wellness for Older Adults: Low-impact Fitness (Main)
Tuesday, October 7
3:15-4 p.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 an in-person event in the Community Room of the Main Library. 

Cosmic Craft (Collins)
Tuesday, October 7
4-4:45 p.m.

World Space Week runs October 4-10, 2025. Celebrate with an after school activity. Supplies will be provided to design your own galaxy or solar system. Recommended for ages 4-10 with a caregiver.

Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
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 required. Stop by the Teen Room or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.

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

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

Fiber Crafts Group – Drop-In (O’Connell)
Wednesday, October 8
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: Rethinking Urban Nature Walk with Earthwise Aware (Main)
Wednesday, October 8
1-2:30 p.m.

Join Earthwise Aware for a thought-provoking walk examining how land use and climate change influence the design, function, and future of urban green spaces. Starting at the library’s front lawn, we will explore how conventional designs can undermine biodiversity and tree health. What makes a space truly nature-friendly? Can a lawn, sidewalk, or plaza be transformed into habitat?

We will compare low-functioning green spaces with examples of micro-forests, native plantings, and meadows. Along the way, we will observe seasonal changes in plants and wildlife through the lens of phenology, the study of nature’s calendar. We will also introduce simple participatory science tools that help monitor habitat quality, foster community engagement, and inform better decisions. Even a modest native plant patch can be a pocket of resilience. Come learn how to spot, support, and reimagine urban nature that works with the ecosystem, not just mimics it. We’ll meet in Joan Lorentz Park. Registration is required.

Creative Aging: Intermediate Improv (Main)
Wednesday, October 8
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. This program is full; a waitlist is available.

Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, October 8
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 be making bookmarks for Banned Books Week.

Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Connell)
Wednesday, October 8
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. 

Wellness Art Wednesday: Fruits and Seeds in Autumn Watercolor (Main) 
Wednesday, October 8
3-5 p.m.

Combine your love for art and Autumn, here at the Library! This art class will be a hybrid of indoor and outdoor time. Allowing you to get up close with fruits and seeds taking an artistic observation of your surroundings. All supplies will be provided but please bring any protective gear (long sleeves and sweaters) in the event of slightly cold weather. Registration is required. 

Wiggle Party (O'Connell)
Wednesday, October 8
5:30-6 p.m.

Join us for a dance party to get your wiggles out! Play a freeze dance game, shake some shakers, and learn the steps to a new dance! For more information, please call the library at (617) 349-4019. 

Citizenship Preparation Classes (Central Square)
Wednesday, October 8
6-8 p.m.

Come join this free 10-week class, in partnership with St. Mark Community Education Program. This series of classes prepares students for all parts of the Citizenship interview. This class is offered as a 10-week series. Attendance at all sessions is expected. Registration is required. Click Here to Register. For more information about registering or classes contact St. Marks at stmarkesol@gmail.com or 617-288-8515.

Requirements:

• Intermediate-level English
• Legal Permanent Resident card for 4 years and 9 months (2 years and 9 months if married to a U.S. citizen)

Wednesday Night Creative Writing Group (Main)
Wednesday, October 8
6:30-8 p.m.

Writers of all experience levels are invited to join a casual, peer-supported writing group. In this group, participants take turns bringing short in-progress or completed pieces of any genre. The group reads several pieces each month, sharing feedback and constructive criticism in a supportive and inclusive environment. We may practice in-class writing exercises and read samples of published writing as time allows. Registration is required. NOTE: Registration is for this month's meeting only. For more information, please email Susannah at sbtkacz@cambridgema.gov.

Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, October 9
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, October 9
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!

Puppetry Studio (Main) 
Thursday, October 9
5-6:30 p.m.

We will adapt the tale “The Little Red Hen” and perform our masterpiece for family and friends. Using mixed media, participants will create shoebox puppet theaters. This four-week puppetry workshop is for youth ages 9-12. We will meet on October 9, 16, 23, 30. No experience necessary!  Registration is required. Participants must attend all sessions and have read a version of the tale before the first session. Stop by the Children’s Room to pick up a copy or call 617-349-4038. For questions about Puppetry Studio, please email ekaluza@cambridgema.gov and nzylicz@cambridgema.gov.

Shop for Free with The Spot (Central Square)
Friday, October 10
3:30-5:30 p.m.

Come Shop for Free with Spot at the Central Square Branch Library. Gear up with fall and winter clothes, accessories, supplies, and more -- all for free! First come, first serve. For more information: spotcambridge@karayallc.com.

Cambridge Young Authors’ Squad – CYAS – Fall 2025 Kickoff (O’Neill)
Friday, October 10
4-5 p.m.

Help us kick off the new school year with CYAS- Cambridge Young Authors' Squad. Young people ages 10 to 14 who love to write are welcome to share their ideas and writing. There will be time for share-outs/workshopping, as well as group or solo writing. Snacks are provided! If you are attending for the first time, registration is helpful but not required.

Shop for Free with The Spot (Central Square)
Saturday, October 11
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Come Shop for Free with Spot at the Central Square Branch Library. Gear up with fall and winter clothes, accessories, supplies, and more -- all for free! First come, first serve.  For more information: spotcambridge@karayallc.com.

CPL Nature Club: Fall Leaf Rubbing (Main)
Saturday, October 11
2:30-3:30 p.m.

Leaves are falling and fall is here! Let’s learn about the trees in the park through stories and leaf rubbings. Recommended for children ages 5-8 and their caregivers.

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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.