Director's Update, October 29, 2023
10/27/2023 • 6 months ago
Dear Patrons,
With appreciation to our staff, patrons, and community of support, Cambridge Public Library is known around the world for its services in support of its mission to welcome all, inspire minds and empower communities. I recently returned from a wonderful visit to Pamplona, Spain, where I served as a delegate representing the United States on a panel titled “Libraries and Reading for a Critical Citizenship” at the 11th National Congress of Spanish Public Libraries that focused on democracy, reading and the right to information. Our panel discussed the importance of promoting reading in preparing community members for civic engagement. Congress participants were fascinated with our services rooted in social justice including social work services, digital equity, STEAM programs, elder services and our commitment to amplifying diverse authors and their works.
Last Tuesday, I was interviewed by Hannah Donnelly and Maria Sansone of the Hub Today program on NBC 10 Boston about the impact of book banning around the country and in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I encourage you to watch the interview to learn more about the issue and what you can do to support public libraries across the country. (In the photograph, from L-R: Hannah Donnelly and Maria Sansone). On Monday, October 30, the Massachusetts legislature will debate two bills about book banning: H.4005: An Act Ensuring Freedom to Read and S.2447: An Act Protecting Against Attempt to Ban, Remove, or Restrict Library Access to Materials.
Also related to civic engagement, the Main Library (449 Broadway, Rossi Room) and Valente Branch (826 Cambridge St., side entrance on Berkshire St.) are both early voting locations for the 2023 Municipal Election. Early voting is also available at the Cambridge Water Department (250 Fresh Pond Parkway). Any registered Cambridge voter can vote early. Unlike on Election Day, you are not assigned to a polling location during the early voting period. Early voting hours at the Main Library and Valente Branch Library are:
- Saturday, October 28, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Sunday, October 29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Monday, October 30, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Tuesday, October 31, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Wednesday, November 1, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Thursday, November 2, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Friday, November 3, 8:30 a.m.-Noon
The Library is pleased to offer the following programs for the week that begins on Sunday, October 29.
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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, October 30
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: Zumba Gold (Virtual)
Monday, October 30
11-11:45 a.m.
Put on your dancing shoes to improve flexibility and balance, strengthen muscles, and have fun! The Certified Zumba Gold instructor Emily B. will lead you through 45 minutes of low-impact and easy choreography in your own home through Zoom. Join us!
Registration is required for each session. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Monday, October 30
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation.
Serger 101 (Main)
Monday, October 30
3-4:30 p.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 first. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio
Monday, October 30
Tuesday, October 31
Wednesday, November 1
Thursday, November 2
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.
DIY Inflatable Costumes (O'Neill)
Monday, October 30
3:30-5 p.m.
Make DIY costume pieces at the Library! Inflatables use recycled materials to create air-powered wearable creations! Recommended for ages 10 and up.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, October 30
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 about Lego time.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Monday, October 30
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 from 5 to 6 p.m. Please contact us with any questions at 617-349-4027 (voice) or via relay at 711.
ESOL Class (Valente)
Monday, October 30
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, and everyone is welcome. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
McKay Coppins at the Library (Main)
Monday, October 30
6-7:30 p.m.
Harvard Book Store and the Library welcome McKay Coppins, —a staff writer at The Atlantic, for a discussion of his new book, Romney: A Reckoning. Coppins will be joined in conversation by the award-winning journalist Jane Clayson. Registration is required.
Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, October 30
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 of individuals who want to 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! Contact us with any questions at 617-349-4017 or by e-mail at ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov or mmcglathery@cambridgema.gov.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, October 31, and Thursday, November 2
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 1, and Friday, November 3
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.
3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Tuesday, October 31
1-2:30 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.
Navigating Solo: Planning Tools for Aging Well (Main)
Tuesday, October 31
2-3:30 p.m.
Please join us for a talk and Q&A session on this five-part Navigating Solo series facilitated by Ailene Gerhardt, an independent Board-Certified Patient Advocate and Certified Senior Advisor at Beacon Patient Solutions LLC, in partnership with Cambridge Neighbors and sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation. Sessions will take place on Tuesdays through November 14, 2023. Each session will include a 60-minute talk and 30-minute Q&A period on the topics listed below. After each session, a resource sheet tailored to attendees’ questions will be shared with registrants via e-mail using a password-protected website, hosted by Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. PowerPoint slides will not be circulated to attendees, and sessions will not be recorded.
You must register for each session. To register for:
- October 31: Evaluating, Assessing, and Enhancing Your Support System, please click here.
- November 7: Where You Live Matters: Exploring What the Best Housing Options Are for You, please click here.
- November 14: Bringing It All Together: Developing an Organized Solo Aging Plan, please click here.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, October 31
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.
Party and Costume Parade! (O'Connell)
Tuesday, October 31
3-5 p.m.
Come show off your scary, silly, sparkly, or magical costume! We'll march, dance, sing songs, play games, and read some not-too-scary stories. For kids of all ages and their caregivers.
Trick or Treat Prep Time! (Central Square)
Tuesday, October 31
3-5 p.m.
Join us in the Central Square Children's/Teen Room to kick off your Halloween. Make treat bags! Hear some spooky stories! Have a treat (or two)! Share some good, silly tricks (nice ones only, please)! Costumes encouraged but not required. Children of all ages; under 7 with caregivers.
Equipment and Studio Reservations
Tuesday, October 31, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, November 3, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 4, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
During this period, anyone who has completed The Hive training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) can reserve equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, October 31
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.
Tai Chi Paradigm (Main)
Wednesday, November 1, and Friday November 3
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 classes 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. Please register for only one of the series. This event is held in person.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, November 1
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.
Keyboard Tips and Tricks (Main)
Wednesday, November 1
11 a.m.-Noon
Learn special tricks and keyboard shortcuts. Get more practice and level up your typing skills! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, November 1
1-3 p.m.
Looking for assistance creating a résumé or finding 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.
Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, November 1
3-4:30 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. Thanks to the O’Neill Branch team for this program.
The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, November 1
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 for patrons ages 12-18.
Nintendo Switch Party for Ages 7-9 (Main)
Wednesday, November 1
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Join our Nintendo Switch party! We have library consoles and games to share. Play multiplayer games on a big screen with up to 4 players or use our handheld console for a 1-2-player game. Feel free to bring your own Switch console as well! This program is for ages 7-9. There will be a Nintendo Switch Party for older kids later in the month. This program can accommodate 20 gamers. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. The gamer must be present to receive a ticket. This program starts promptly, and any unclaimed spots will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.
The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, November 1
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 patrons ages 12-18.
Free Drop-In Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, November 1
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 from 5 to 6 p.m.
Please contact 617-349-4027 with any questions.
Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Wednesday, November 1
6-6:30 p.m.
Friday, November 4
9:30-10:30 a.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 in-person workshops in The Hive, all makers must bring signed copies of The Hive User Agreement and Waivers.
Videography 101 (Main)
Wednesday, November 1
7:30-8:30 p.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.
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Thursday, November 2
10-11 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, by appointment)
Thursday, November 1
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.
Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Thursday, November 2
2-4 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.
Fiber Arts Adventure with Lenni: A Machine-Sewing Workshop Series (Main)
Thursday, November 2
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Continue building your machine-sewing skills and create bespoke sewn crafts! Design your own fiber arts adventure as you make dinner napkins, high-visibility patches for being seen at night, and your own wearable Hive-made creations. This four-part series is led by the fiber artist and designer Lenni Armstrong.
The skills practiced include: identifying and straightening a fabric's grain, straight stitching, making hems, and more. Registration is required. Those registered for the first session will automatically be enrolled in the following weeks. Spots are very limited; kindly only enroll if you plan to attend all four workshops.
Thursday, November 2
Thursday, November 9
Thursday, November 16
This workshop is designed for patrons who know the basics of how to use our Janome sewing machines.
Save on Home Internet: Affordable Connectivity Program Info Session
Thursday, November 2
6:30-8 p.m.
Join us to learn about the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and how to apply. The ACP provides eligible households with a monthly discount on home Internet. Many plans are available at little to no cost. For more information, go to this link: https://www.fcc.gov/acp. Registration is required.
Cambridge Cooks: Pate a Choux with Chef Anthony Haley (Main)
Thursday, November 2
6-7 p.m.
Cambridge Cooks invites local chefs to the Library for a free cooking demonstration, followed by a tasting and Q&A with the chefs. Pate a Choux, or choux pastry, is a delicate pastry dough that serves as the basis for treats such as eclairs and cream puffs. Chef Anthony will teach techniques to make these versatile treats.
XR Lab 101 (Main)
Thursday, November 2
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. https://cambridgepl.libcal.com/event/11305932. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Drop-In Project (Valente)
Fridays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Drop by to work on a project. Each week we will have a different activity.
Teen Room x The Hive (Main)
Friday, November 3
3:30-5 p.m.
Grab a friend for some creative exploration and play! Try your hand at sticker-making, 3D doodling, immersive VR, and more in the Teen Room. This is a drop-in event designed for patrons ages 12-18.
Cambridge Young Authors’ Squad (O’Neill)
Friday, November 3
4-5 p.m.
Children ages 10-14 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.
Beginners’ Mandarin Class (Main)
Saturday, November 4
10-11:30 a.m.
Come learn the second-most-spoken language in the world! This class, taught by Sunling Liew—an experienced Chinese-language instructor at the Ming Hui Academy Boston—is designed for beginners. No testing or experience is needed, but registration is required.
The class sessions are as follows:
- Saturday, November 4, 2023
- Saturday, November 18, 2023
- Saturday, December 2, 2023
- Saturday, December 9, 2023
- Saturday, December 16, 2023
It is strongly encouraged that any interested parties register for ALL of the classes; the lessons build upon one another. If you have any questions or would like to register for the class but foresee a scheduling issue, please reach out to zbond@cambridgema.gov.
Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, October 28
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.
Saturday Songs and Stories (O'Neill)
Saturday, November 5
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.