Director's Update, March 10, 2024
3/8/2024 • 1 month ago
Dear Patrons,
I am happy to announce that the Cambridge STEAM initiative now has a podcast called STEAM Rises. STEAM Rises explores the intersection of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math through interviews with visionaries from the Cambridge community and beyond. It aims to inspire listeners to create change in their communities and their lives, and it’s available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! Listen to STEAM Rises.
In the first episode, “Live from The Hive,” Melina O'Grady and Melinda Barbosa discuss how STEAM is for everyone and how it paves the way for a future where STEAM-minded students are the architects of progress and innovation. “Live from The Hive” was recorded using podcast equipment at The Hive, the Library’s state-of-the-art makerspace open to all Cambridge residents. Learn more about The Hive: https://camb.ma/48vJk9G
Last Thursday, March 7, the City of Cambridge began the voting process for its tenth Participatory Budgeting (PB) cycle! From March 7 through 17, all Cambridge residents aged 12 and older, including all 6th-graders and university students, can participate by voting for their five favorite PB projects. They can vote in person at the Main Library from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, March 17. They can also vote online here or by calling the City of Cambridge Budget Office at 617-349-4270 during regular business hours. Click here to learn more about PB in Cambridge.
On Monday, April 8, there will be a total solar eclipse! We’re hosting events leading up to the eclipse across several branches for the Library’s 2024 Eclipse Celebration. Check out our calendar of events or ask at your branch library to learn about other events that are part of this special program.
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The Library is pleased to offer the following programs and events for the week that begins on March 11.
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Activities for Kids
This week, these programs will be offered at our Boudreau, Central Square, Collins, Main, O’Connell, O’Neill, and Valente locations.
Sing-Alongs
Story Times
Book Groups
Learn more about our Book Groups.
Baby Lapsit (Main)
Monday, March 11
10-10:20 a.m.
Just for you and your baby! Enjoy time with other parents and caregivers to help babies learn, play, and develop language and motor skills. Recommended for 0-12 months. Come prepared to sit on the floor with your baby in your lap. This program can accommodate 15 babies and their caregivers. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. The entire party must be present to receive a ticket. This program starts promptly. Unclaimed seats will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.
Wellness for Seniors: Low Impact® (Virtual)
Monday, March 11
11-11:45 a.m.
This class is designed for people of all levels to strengthen 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 virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Collins)
Monday, March 11
3-4 p.m.
Would you like help creating a résumé or looking for jobs? Join a librarian for assistance with your résumé, job search, or online applications. Do you have questions? Contact Lucy at LFlamm@CambridgeMA.gov. Registration is required.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, March 11
4-4:45 p.m.
It’s a weekly block party! Bring friends to design and build amazing LEGO structures. Let your imagination run wild! The Children's Room has plenty of LEGO pieces, so you don’t need to bring your own. Be aware that LEGO pieces are choking hazards for young children, so this program is for children ages 5+ and their caregivers. It can accommodate 30 builders. Children under age 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver. 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.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Monday, March 11
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 on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please contact us with any questions at 617-349-4027 (voice) or via relay at 711.
Sewing Circle (Main)
Monday, March 11
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Continue building your machine-sewing skills and receive support as you work on your own projects with our Library sewing community. Participants must register but may drop in at any time. This program is designed for patrons who know the basics of how to use our Janome sewing machines. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
ESOL Class (Valente)
Monday, March 11
6-7 p.m.
Join us for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)! This class will be taught at a beginner level. No testing is needed. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, March 11
6-7 p.m.
Come join us for a chess challenge. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. This is not an instructional class but a gathering for individuals who want to play and test their skills against other members of the community. There's no need to register. 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.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, March 12, and Thursday, March 14
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 13, and Friday, March 15
10:30 a.m.-Noon
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes occur on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Intermediate ESOL is at 11 a.m., High Beginner ESOL is at 1 p.m., and Advanced ESOL is at 3 p.m. Beginner ESOL is at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Registration is not required.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, March 12, 3:30-8 p.m.
Thursday, March 14, 4:3-8 p.m.
Friday, March 15, 1-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 16, 12:45-4:30 p.m.
During this period, anyone who has completed The Hive Safety Training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) can reserve equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, March 12
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters as you work, get inspired, pick up skills, and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, and mend. Refreshments will be provided.
Mouse and Keyboard (Main)
Tuesday, March 12
3-4 p.m.
Get started with the basics of a mouse and keyboard. We will have laptops and mice prepared for the class. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Tuesday, March 12, and Wednesday, March 13
3:30-7 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 and apply on the iFp website: Innovators for Purpose.
Drop-in Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, March 12
4-6 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want help using an online resource? Need someone to read your résuméand support navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in help hours. No registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov.
STEAM Academy: iFp Labs (Main)
Tuesday, March 12
4:30-6:30 p.m.
Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Labs start with students' interest in building a better world and introduce them to the underlying science and math principles that will bring their solutions to life. Youth in 7th and 8th grades are invited to join iFp on a journey into the world of artificial intelligence with “Smart Cars AI: Driving Innovation for All.” This 13-week adventure invites students to dive into the world of self-driving cars at the intersection of technology and innovation.
CPL Nature Club: Seed Swap (Collins)
Tuesday, March 12
5-6 p.m.
Bring all the extra, leftover garden seeds you don't think you'll get to this year! We'll have envelopes and pens to help keep them straight. Don't have any seeds? Just come anyway! We will have extras, and you can swap garden stories.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, March 12
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.
2024 CPL Eclipse Celebration: Family STEAM Night - UV Creatures (O'Neill)
Tuesday, March 12
6:15-7:30 p.m.
Families with elementary school age children can join us for hands-on activities focused on Science, Technology, Arts, Engineering, and Math. Adults and children will learn and play together!
This month we will be making UV Creatures! Children use common craft materials and ultraviolet (UV)-sensitive beads to construct a person (or dog or imaginary creature): UV Kid! They use sunscreen, foil, paper, and more to test materials that might protect UV Kid — and ourselves! — from being exposed to too much UV radiation.
Wellness for Seniors: Tai Chi Paradigm
Wednesday, March 13, and Friday, March 15
10-11 a.m.
Join us in this 12-week Tai Chi practice, which focuses on the mind and body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low-impact routine. Sifu Mynor Diaz has been learning and teaching Tai Chi classes for over 20 years. He has taught at five VA Boston Healthcare System locations and at Senior Centers. Note: We will be running two separate Tai Chi Paradigm series this year, a Wednesday series and a Friday series. Due to its subject matter, we expect participants to attend all the classes. Please register for only one series. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, March 13
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters. Work on your craft, get inspired, pick up skills, and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, mend, and cross stitch.
Half-Day Take & Make (Valente)
Wednesday, March 13
1-3 p.m.
Stop by after school to pick up a Take & Make kit. Take it home with you and get creative! No registration is required for this free event. Available while supplies last.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, March 13
1-3 p.m.
Looking for assistance creating a résumé or finding jobs? Join us for help with job hunting and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, March 13
1-2:30 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 is required. This week we will be making paper dolls of our favorite feminist icons!
Google Docs Basics (Main)
Wednesday, March 13
3-4 p.m.
Create online documents using Google Docs. Learn how to create and save your own documents online! You will need a Gmail (Google e-mail) account. Please remember your e-mail and password prior to the class. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, March 13
3:30-5 p.m.
Have you checked out The Hive yet? Teens are welcome to come learn about our space and try their hand at sticker making, video recording in our studio, and more. This is a drop-in event designed for ages 12-18.
One-on-One Tech Help by Appointment (Boudreau)
Wednesday, March 13
4-4:45 p.m.
Would you like help navigating the Library's e-resources like Libby or Hoopla? Or maybe you need some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Book a free one-on-one tech help session.
Some topics we cover include:
- downloading library eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines to your tablet, smartphone, or laptop
- navigating databases and other library resources such as LinkedIn Learning
- using the Internet and e-mail
- setting up devices like smartphones or streaming devices
Guidelines for basic tech help:
- scheduled sessions run between 30 and 45 minutes.
- please bring your device, cords, and any necessary account information.
- library staff cannot be held responsible for damage to patrons’ equipment.
If you have questions, please send them to ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, March 13
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 on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please contact 617-349-4027 with any questions.
Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Wednesday, March 13
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Learn how to cut, engrave, and shape designs from a variety of materials using the Glowforge Pro laser cutter in this workshop. This two-hour workshop replaces the previous two-part Glowforge 101 offering; the content and length of this workshop and the two-part series are the same. You will start by using the camera on the Glowforge to focus and scan your own images, properly select materials for your project, and fabricate your first design. You will create digital artwork for the Glowforge and learn file formatting for production. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Note: This is a badging course for laser cutting. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this program. View The Hive's workshop schedule here.
U.S. Censuses, 1790-1950 (Main)
Thursday, March 14
2-3 p.m.
The U.S. censuses are probably the single most powerful tool for researching your family history. Learn all the ins and outs of what is offered and how to search. Registration is required.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, March 14
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle—an hour of fun and conversation.
The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Thursday, March 14
2:30-3 p.m.
In this workshop, you will learn about our makerspace, how to use our resources, and how to keep safe in The Hive. Registration is required. The Zoom link will be sent out 1 hour before the workshop starts. Before taking workshops in The Hive, all makers must bring signed copies of The Hive User Agreement and Waivers.
Read to a Dog (Valente)
Thursday, March 14
3:30-5 p.m.
Meet our new friend Dante, a therapy dog certified through Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 15-minute time slot is required by calling or visiting Valente (617-349-4015).
Read to a Dog (Boudreau)
Thursday, March 14
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Read with Ana the Therapy Dog! Therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers of all ages. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required. Sign up the day of the program by phone or in person at Boudreau (617-349-4017).
Puppetry Studio: Crankie Theater Storytelling (Main)
Thursday, March 14
5-6:30 p.m.
A crankie theater uses illustrated scrolls that are hand-cranked to advance the story. We will adapt the folktale “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” for a tiny stage and perform our masterpiece for family and friends. This three-week puppetry workshop is for kids ages 7-10. No experience is necessary! Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Cambridge Young Authors' Squad (O'Neill)
Friday, March 15
4-5 p.m.
Young people ages 10-14 who love to write are welcome to share their ideas and writing.
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Saturday, March 16
9:30-10:30 a.m.
Would you like to make your own vinyl signs, stickers, or images to transfer to T-shirts and other textiles? In this workshop, you can learn how to use our Roland Camm-1 GS-24 vinyl cutter. You can then design a sticker and cut it with our vinyl cutter! Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering.
Isha Kriya
Saturday, March 16
11 a.m.-Noon
In this session, you will learn Isha Kriya, a simple 12-18-minute practice, to help you become meditative effortlessly. For beginners and experienced meditators alike!
Daily practice of Isha Kriya meditation offers:
- Enhanced clarity
- Improved health
- Heightened focus and energy
- Greater prosperity and a state of peacefulness and joy
Note: While registration is preferred, it is not required. Walk-ins are welcome!
Saturday Story Time (Valente)
Saturday, March 16
2-2:25 p.m.
Join us for stories, songs, and fun! Each session will have a special theme. No registration is required. This program is recommended for children and their caregivers. More Story Times are planned for April 20, May 18, and June 15.
Chess Hour (O'Neill)
Saturday, March 16
3-4 p.m.
Chess players of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate. Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. This is a space for individuals to test their skills against other members of the community. It is not an instructional class. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 617-349-4023 or via e-mail: sjoycefarley@cambridgema.gov.
Saturday Songs and Stories (O'Neill)
Saturday, March 16
3:30-4 p.m.
Music, movement, and stories! Join your librarians for 20 minutes of fun! For children of all ages and their grown-ups.
Stay Connected
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All the best!
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries
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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.