Director's Update, July 23, 2023
7/24/2023 • 9 months ago
Dear Patrons,
The Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women will be hosting Consent Camp for rising 6th-9th-graders at the Main Library from Monday, July 31, through Thursday, August 3. Campers will learn the basics of consent education, activism, and peer education. They will be mentored by trained high school peer leaders and supervised by expert adult educators. The camp will be very interactive, with a large focus on community building and leadership skill building in a relaxed environment. At the end of camp, participants will receive a certificate in Peer Education. Registration is required.
Also coming up this week is our conversation with Omer Aziz about his debut memoir Brown Boy. We hope to see you there this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.! Registration is required.
The Library is pleased to offer the following programs for the week that begins on Sunday, July 23.
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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, July 24
10-10:20 a.m.
Just for you and your baby! Enjoy time with other parents, caregivers, and babies to 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 Fitness (Virtual)
Monday, July 24
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! A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event. Registration for each session is required.
Summer Reading: Fun with Bubbles (O'Connell)
Monday, July 24
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join us outdoors to explore and learn with bubbles! We will blow bubbles of all sizes, make bubble wands, and play bubble games! For children of all ages and their grown-ups.
Summer Reading: After-Camp Hangout (O'Neill)
Monday, July 24
3-6 p.m.
Enjoy games, snacks, and a weekly rotating activity. Beat the heat or come to just hang out with friends! All youth and their families are welcome.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, July 24
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 up 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. Learn more.
Summer Reading: Patio Project (Valente)
Monday, July 24
5-6 p.m.
Join us outside for STEAM activities for all ages!
We will move indoors to the Community Room in case of bad weather. Please call 617-349-4015 for more information.
ESOL Class (Valente)
Monday, July 24
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, July 24
6-7 p.m.
Come join us for a chess challenge. Players of all skill levels and all ages are welcome. 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 others inf 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.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, July 25, and Thursday, July 27
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, July 26, and Friday, July 28
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.
The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Tuesday, July 25
1:30-2 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 an hour before the workshop starts. Before taking workshops in The Hive, all makers must bring signed copies of The Hive User Agreement and Waivers.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, July 25, 3-6 p.m.
Wednesday, July 26, 3-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 27, 2-6 p.m.
During this time, anyone who has completed The Hive Safety Training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) can reserve The Hive’s equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able. Learn more.
Summer Reading: Paper Engineering (Collins)
Tuesday, July 25
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Each week, participants will take a simple piece of paper and cut, fold, and combine it into a new creation. A different activity will be featured in every session. Recommended for children ages 5-12 and their caregivers.
July 25 - Paper Beads
August 1 - Optical Illusions
Sit ‘n’ Knit (Main)
Tuesday, July 25
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.
One-on-One Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, July 25
5-8 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by during our drop-in hours! A laptop will be available for use during the session. We can help you with:
- Setting up e-mail accounts and learning how to use e-mail
- Searching for resources online
- Smartphone and mobile app questions
- Accessing library eBooks, audiobooks, and other eResources
We are not able to help you with:
- installing advanced software programs
- completing online transactions
- computer hardware and technical maintenance
If you have any questions, please contact syasuda@cambridgema.gov.
Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Tuesday, July 25
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. 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. Note: This is a badging course for laser cutting. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this program. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Hand Sewing for Mending with Jessamy (Valente)
Tuesday, July 25
6:30-8 p.m.
This workshop will focus on hand sewing techniques that can be used to repair seams, hems, tears, and more. Participants will learn about tools and materials for hand sewing, a variety of stitches, and when to apply them to restore garments back to wearability. Jessamy is a Somerville-based textile artist and sustainable fashion designer specializing in creative mending and upcycling. She earned a BFA in Fibers and a Certificate in Fashion Design from the Massachusetts College of Art & Design and has taught mending at the Cambridge Public Library, Make & Mend in Somerville, and the Eliot School of Fine & Applied Arts in Jamaica Plain. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, July 25
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters. Learn more.
Read to a Dog (O'Connell)
Wednesday, July 26
10-11 a.m.
Read with Bowie the Therapy Dog from Pets & People! Therapy dogs provide warm and welcoming reading companions for new and experienced readers of all ages. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required. Sign up by phone (617-349-4019) or in person at the O'Connell Branch.
Summer Reading: Hats! (Central Square)
Wednesday, July 26
11 a.m.-Noon
We’ll read stories about hats! We’ll make hats! Come wearing your favorite hat! All ages.
Summer Reading: Rockabye Beats (O'Connell)
Wednesday, July 26
2-2:45 p.m.
Come join Rockabye Beats for an interactive musical experience! We'll sing, play, explore instruments, dance, pretend, learn a little Spanish, and show off our goofy side. For children of all ages and their caregivers. Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, the Cambridge Public Library Foundation, the Friends of the Cambridge Public Library, the East Cambridge Savings Bank, and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
Summer Reading: STEAM Afternoons in the Teen Room (Main)
Wednesday, July 26
3-5 p.m.
Try out a STEAM Kit, make your own buttons or express your creativity with a 3D pen. Every other Wednesday this summer.
Summer Reading: Wingmasters Presents: World of Owls (Valente)
Wednesday, July 26
3-3:45 p.m.
Featuring a variety of live owls, this captivating and informative program shows how owls use their special powers of sight, hearing, and flight to survive and thrive. A wealth of facts and folklore about these masters of the dark explains their natural and unnatural history. Recommended for children 6 and up and their caregivers.
Summer Bird Watching Walk at Mount Auburn Cemetery (Collins)
Wednesday, July 26
4-5 p.m.
Join us for a summer walk at the renowned birdwatching spot in our own backyard, Mount Auburn Cemetery! We will help you identify birds, learn birdwatching tips and tricks, and familiarize yourself with the spring migratory birds as well as those that can be spotted year-round! A limited supply of binoculars will be available. Registration is required. We will meet at the courtyard of the Collins Branch at 4 p.m. and head over to the cemetery together. For more information, contact Michael Roberson at mroberson@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4021.
One on One Tech Help (Boudreau)
Wednesday, July 26
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 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
Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, July 26
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Continue building your machine-sewing skills AND receive support as you work on your own sewing projects with our sewing community. Participants must register but may drop in anytime. This program is designed for patrons who know how to use our Janome sewing machines.
Bike Maintenance Basics (O'Connell)
Tuesday, July 26
6-7:30 p.m.
Learn how to care for your bike! Join Tenzin Choephel from the Cambridge Community Development Department and learn the basics of bike maintenance, including:
- Anatomy of the bike
- Removing wheels
- Fixing flats
- Chain Maintenance
- Pre-Ride check
- Seat height
- Portable tool kit
- Keeping your bike healthy with preventive bike maintenance
You do not need to bring a bike. No registration is required. For more information, please call 617-349-4019.
Summer Reading: Evening Story Time (O'Connell)
Tuesday, July 26
6:30-7 p.m.
We invite children and their grown-ups to join us for a special evening story event. This program will run for 25-30 minutes with songs, stories, and rhymes.
Omer Aziz Presents: Brown Boy: A Memoir (Hybrid)
Wednesday, July 26
6-7:30 p.m.
Brown Boy, Omer Aziz’s first book, follows his journey through education from a tough neighborhood on the outskirts of Toronto to an academic career that took him to Queen’s University in Ontario, Sciences Po in Paris, Cambridge University in England, and Yale Law School. Aziz’s path is fraught with feelings of doubt and insecurity at being an outsider as a brown-skinned boy in an elite white world. Aziz wrestles with the contradiction of feeling like an Other and his desire to belong to a Western world that never quite accepts him. Brown Boy grapples with the complexities of identity, race, and class. Registration is required.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main)
Thursday, July 27
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to learn how to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by the Main Library during our drop-in hours! Sessions will be limited to 30 minutes for each patron. A laptop will be available for use during the session. 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
If you have any questions, please contact syasuda@cambridgema.gov.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Thursday, July 27
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, cross stitch.
Summer Reading: Board Games for Teens (Main)
Thursday, July 27
1-5 p.m.
Bring friends and play games - Uno, Sorry!, Taboo, Chess, Connect 4. Or try something new, like Pandemic, Code Names, Snake Oil, and more. Snacks will be provided while supplies last.
Summer Reading: Pete the Cat Party! (O'Connell)
Thursday, July 27
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Games, crafts, and stories about everyone’s favorite fictional feline! For children of all ages and their grown-ups.
Summer Reading: Pumpernickel Puppets (Collins)
Thursday, July 27
4-4:45 p.m.
Two classic tales make up this wonderful animal-inspired show. "The Three Billy Goats Gruff" and "The Lion and the Mouse" are told with colorful, friendly hand puppets and feature lots of audience interaction. Recommended for children 3 and up and their caregivers.
3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Thursday, July 27
1-3 p.m.
Learn how to create your favorite game piece in digital space and print it out using our Sindoh 3D printers. In this workshop, you will get hands-on experience running the 3D printer, gain fundamental 3D modeling skills using Tinkercad, and earn your 3D Printing badge for future reservations in The Hive. Before taking this workshop, you will need to complete The Hive Safety Training and create a free Tinkercad account at www.tinkercad.com. Parents may need to assist users under the age of 18 to create an account. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Serger 101 (Main)
Friday, July 29
9:30-10:30 a.m.
Are you an intermediate or advanced sewer? This workshop will cover serger machine setup, threading a serger, and identifying correct tension settings with different types of fabric. You will learn about ways to use our Elna Extend 864 Air serger to take your sewing skills to the next level by producing special finishing styles, hemming, trimming, and assembling your garments. This workshop is designed for patrons who know how to use a sewing machine. If you are new to machine sewing, we recommend you take our Sewing 101 workshop before using our serger. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Summer Reading: Wildlife Encounters with Mass Audubon (Main)
Friday, July 28
11-11:45 a.m.
What better way to learn about wildlife than by observing them in person? Meet wildlife ambassadors and discover the amazing adaptations that help them survive in the wild. Ask questions and learn what you can do to protect the wildlife of Cambridge. For children of all ages and their caregivers.
Drop-in Studio (The Hive, Main)
Friday, July 28
1-4:30 p.m.
This is an opportunity to check out what The Hive is all about and get started exploring and making right away! Learn about our workshop offerings, special programs, and more. Equipment and studios will be available for limited time slots on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is not required. Staff will assist patrons as they are able. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a guardian 18 or older.
Summer Reading: Ice Cream Making (Boudreau)
Friday, July 28
3-3:45 p.m.
Did you know you can make ice cream in a bag? Join us to learn how and make your own tasty summer treat! Please register for this event as space is limited. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Videography 101 (Main)
Saturday, July 29
9:30-10:30 a.m.
Step into The Hive's state-of-the-art recording studio and film a short video of yourself in front of our green screen. Then, spend some time becoming familiar with video editing software while working with your footage. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Capoeira with Mestre Chuvisquinho (Joan Lorentz Park, Main)
Saturday, July 29
11a.m.-Noon
Capoeira is a unique Afro-Brazilian martial art developed initially by African slaves during the colonial period. Renowned for its fluidity, grace, and power, it combines elements of martial arts, dance, music, spirituality, and acrobatics. It develops strength, coordination, self-confidence, musical skills, flexibility, endurance, confidence, and self-awareness. Join us on Saturdays through August 5. No registration is required.
Summer Reading: Dinoman presents "Dinosaurs!" (Central Square)
Saturday, July 29
11-11:40 a.m.
With magic, merry mayhem, and magnificent inflatable dinosaurs, Dinoman will take you on a trip throughout the Mesozoic era. Recommended for children 4 and up and their caregivers.
Studio Recording 101 (Main)
Saturday, July 29
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Are you interested in podcasting, audio production, or video production? The Hive has two state-of-the-art recording studios! Join this workshop to become familiar with studio equipment and software. Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, July 29
1:30-3 p.m.
Fiber crafters of all skill levels are welcome to drop in for companionable crafting! Bring your project and enjoy tea and snacks as you chat, share tips, and even inspire others.
Summer Reading: Talewise Presents Science Heroes: Saving Earth Together (O'Neill)
Saturday, July 29
2-2:45 p.m.
In this action-packed story, two unlikely heroes work together to save their town (and the planet) from a super-polluting mastermind! Throughout the adventure, volunteers will help the performer conduct several exciting science experiments that bring this story to life! Together we’ll explore Newton’s Laws of Motion, air pressure, chemical reactions, and more! Recommended for children 5 and up and their caregivers. This program may be held indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. Please call ahead to inquire at 617-349-4023.
Sewing 101 (Main)
Saturday, July 29
2:30-4 p.m.
In this 90-minute workshop, you’ll learn the basics of sewing machine operation and safety. This session will cover machine setup, basic functions, threading the machine, reloading the bobbin, sewing straight stitches, and recognizing when stitch tension has gone awry. We’ll also cover some safety best practices with a sewing machine. As we learn together, we’ll work on a simple sewing project—a drawstring bag—which most students will be able to complete by the end of the class. Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
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All the best!
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries