Director's Update, September 10, 2023
9/11/2023 • 7 months ago
Dear Patrons,
On Monday, September 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., the Library will welcome Mona Awad, the acclaimed author of All’s Well and Bunny, for a discussion of Rouge, her latest novel. She will be talking with Laura Zigman, the author of Separation Anxiety and Small World. This program is sponsored by Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library. Registration is required.
On Thursday, September 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., the Library will host Isabella Hammad, the award-winning author of The Parisian, for a discussion about her latest book, Enter Ghost. Hammad will be talking with Namwali Serpell, the author of The Old Drift, the winner of the Windham-Campbell Prize, and The Furrows: An Elegy, a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and a New York Times’ 10 Best Books and 100 Notable Books of 2022. This event is sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation. Registration is required.
The Library is pleased to offer the programs below for the week beginning on Sunday, September 10.
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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, September 11
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.
Special Storytime: All About Fall (Collins)
Monday, September 11
10:30-11:15 a.m.
Autumn is almost here! Celebrate the new season with stories, songs, and a craft about the changing leaves and crisp apples. For children of all ages and their caregivers.
Sewing 101 (Main)
Monday, September 11
3-4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 12
1-2:30 p.m.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of sewing machine operation and safety. We 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.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, September 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 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.
Mona Awad Presents Rouge, talking with Laura Zigman (Main)
Monday, September 14
6-7:30 p.m.
Harvard Book Store and the Library welcome Mona Awad, the acclaimed author of All’s Well and Bunny, for a discussion of her latest novel, Rouge. She will be talking with Laura Zigman, the author of Separation Anxiety and Small World. Registration is required.
Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, September 11
6-7 p.m.
Come join us for a chess challenge. Players of all skill levels and ages 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 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 e-mail: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov or mmcglathery@cambridgema.gov.
ESOL Class (Valente)
Monday, September 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.
Basic Tech Classes (Main)
September schedule
Join us for Basic Tech Classes this September! Learn how to use e-mail, search the Internet, and add to your tech skills. Pick and choose the classes that are right for you. Look for new classes each month. Registration is required to participate in each class.
Mouse and Keyboard (in person) Tuesday, September 12, 10-10:30 a.m.
E-mail Basics (in person) Tuesday, September 12, 11 a.m.-Noon
E-mail Tips and Tricks (in person) Wednesday, September 13, 11 a.m.-Noon
Google Docs Basics (in person) Monday, September 18, 1-2 p.m.
Google Docs Tips and Tricks (in person) Wednesday, September 20, 1-2 p.m.
Internet Basics (in person) Tuesday, September 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Internet Safety (in person) Wednesday, September 27, 6-7 p.m.
Intro to Library e-Resources (in person) Friday, September 29, 2-3 p.m.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, September 12, and Thursday, September 14
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 13, and Friday, September 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.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, September 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.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, September 12, 3:30- 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, September 14, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, September 15, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 16, 11 a.m.-4:30 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.
Mindfulness Meditation at the CPL
Tuesday, September 12
6-7:30 p.m.
Laura Carmen Arena leads a beginner-level meditation class with a focus on mindfulness and journaling.
She is an Argentinian-American writer and visual artist and an experienced yoga and meditation teacher based in Cambridge. She has led workshops on meditation and yoga at universities and other professional settings. She studied literature at NYU and contemplative traditions, education, and creative writing at Harvard University, where she also served as a teaching fellow, photographer, webmaster, and assistant director of multicultural affairs. She enjoys leading mind-body practices to pollinate creative outlooks and a more peaceful, centered awareness. Registration is required.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, September 12
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.
Wellness for Seniors: Tai Chi Paradigm (Main)
Wednesday, September 13, and Friday, September 15
10-11 a.m.
Join us in this 12-week Tai Chi Paradigm - Level 2 practice, which focuses on the mind-body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low-impact routine. Participants must have completed Tai Chi Paradigm - Level 1. 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. This event is held in person. Due to the meaningfulness of this series, we expect participants to attend all the classes. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, September 13
1-3 p.m.
Looking for assistance creating a résumé or looking for jobs? Join us for assistance with résumés, job hunting, and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Zing Laser Cutting 101 (Main)
Wednesday, September 13
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Learn how to use our Epilog Zing, an industry-standard laser cutting machine. Complete this workshop to earn a badge for the Zing laser cutter. With a badge, you can reserve the Epilog Zing to use on our equipment booking page at designated times. Note: The Epilog Zing laser cutter and Glowforge laser cutter require separate trainings. You must participate in the Glowforge workshop in order to operate our Glowforge Pro laser cutter. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required.
One-on-One Tech Help (Boudreau)
Wednesday, September 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:
- 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.
Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Wednesday, September 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. 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.
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Thursday, September 14
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, September 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. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main)
Thursday, September 14
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by 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
- computer hardware and technical maintenance
If you have any questions, please contact syasuda@cambridgema.gov.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Thursday, September 14
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.
The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Thursday, September 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 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.
Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Thursday, September 14
3-4 p.m.
Read with a cuddly friend! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required; call or visit the O’Neill Branch (617-349-4023).
Read to a Dog (Boudreau)
Thursday, September 14
3-4 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 the Boudreau Branch (617-349-4017).
Isabella Hammad talking with Namwali Serpell (Main)
Thursday, September 14
6-7:30 p.m.
Join Isabella Hammad, the award-winning author of The Parisian, for a conversation about her latest book, Enter Ghost. Hammad will be talking with Namwali Serpell, the author of The Old Drift, the winner of the Windham-Campbell Prize, and The Furrows: An Elegy, a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and a New York Times’ 10 Best Books and 100 Notable Books of 2022. This event is sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
XR Lab 101 (Main)
Thursday, September 14
7-8 p.m.
Extended reality (XR) opens the door to worlds and experiences outside the everyday through virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality equipment. Test drive our Microsoft HoloLens augmented reality glasses, Structure Sensor 3D scanner, Merge headsets, and more. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Cambridge Young Authors' Squad (O'Neill)
Friday, September 15
4-5 p.m.
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! Registration is helpful but not required.
Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, September 16
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. No registration is required.
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All the best,
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries