Director's Update, October 8, 2023
10/6/2023 • 6 months ago
Dear Patrons,
I hope you enjoyed celebrating Banned Books Week with us last week. Exercising your freedom to read is a fundamental right. The number of book challenges in the U.S. in 2022 nearly doubled from the number in 2021, from 729 to 1,269 – and Massachusetts is not immune. The number of book challenges in Massachusetts quadrupled from 2012 to 2022, according to the American Library Association increasing from just 10 to 45 in the past year. Of those titles, the vast majority were written by or about members of the LGBTQIA+ community and people of color. I hope you continue to read banned books and exercise your freedom to read!
We are now rolling out fixed and free menstrual product dispensers in gender-inclusive and women’s bathrooms throughout our libraries! This is a result of a pilot with coordination by Youth Services librarian Hill Saxton and after Cambridge Youth Council high school students advocated for and worked with elected officials to put in a related City Council order. The first menstrual product dispenser at the Main Library has been installed in the L2 bathrooms. By the end of October, we are aiming for 16 menstrual product dispensers across all seven branches. This initiative ties directly to our values of access and social justice, which are outlined in the Library’s strategic framework.
Looking to learn Mandarin? The Library is offering an eight-class beginner's course on Saturdays. Registration is required,and please plan to attend every session.
All Library locations will be closed on Monday, October 9, for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
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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.
Wellness for Seniors: Meditation (Main)
Tuesday, October 10
10-11 a.m.
Join us for guided meditations focused on the breath and body to foster loving connections with the world. You will leave class knowing how to meditate on your own. Our meditation instructor John Mercuri-Dooley has been studying meditation for over 30 years and has taught for organizations such as the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, the Somerville-Cambridge Elder Service, and the Cambridge Citywide Senior Center. Registration is required.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, October 10, and Thursday, October 12
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 11, and Friday, October 13
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.
One-on-One Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, October 10
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.
Zing Laser Cutting 101 (Main)
Tuesday, October 10
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. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, October 10
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.
Google Docs Tips and Tricks (Main)
Tuesday, October 10
1-2 p.m.
Get more practice with Google Docs! Learn some tips and tricks when you create online documents. You will need a Gmail (Google e-mail) account. Please remember your e-mail and password before the class. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, October 10, 3-6 p.m.
Wednesday, October 11, 6-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 12, 2-6 p.m.
Friday, October 13, 1-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 14, 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.
Fergus M. Bordewich at the Library (Main)
Tuesday, October 10
6-7:30 p.m.
Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library welcome the award-winning historian Fergus M. Bordewich for a discussion of his new book, Klan War: Ulysses S. Grant and the Battle to Save Reconstruction. He will be talking with Ilyon Woo, the author of Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom. Registration is required.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, October 10
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.
3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Tuesday, October 10
1-2:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 12
7-8:30 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.
Wellness for Seniors: Tai Chi Paradigm (Main)
Wednesday, October 11, and Friday, October 13
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.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, October 11
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.
Intro to LinkedIn Learning (Main)
Wednesday, October 11
11 a.m.-Noon
Learn how to access LinkedIn Learning with your Cambridge Public Library card for free! LinkedIn Learning is an online educational site with thousands of courses in business, software, technology, and creative skills. It offers courses in English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish, Mandarin, and Portuguese. In this class, you will learn about LinkedIn Learning, how to sign in, and how to use it. Be sure to bring your library card! 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, October 11
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.
Serger 101 (Main)
Wednesday, October 11
1-2:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 12
10:30 a.m.-Noon
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.
Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, October 11
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. We will be exploring collaborative art-making in honor of the Pemberton Mural Project on October 11.
The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, October 11
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.
Read to a Dog (O'Connell)
Wednesday, October 11
3-5 p.m.
Read with Bowie the Therapy Dog from Pets & People! 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 by phone or in person (617-349-4019).
One-on-One Tech Help by Appointment (Boudreau)
Wednesday, October 11
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 help session at the Boudreau branch:
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 patron-owned equipment
If you have questions, please send them to: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov
Pemberton Mural Project: Story Time and Craft (O'Neill)
Wednesday, October 11
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Families with children of all ages can join us for stories and a craft! Our local artist Alex Adamo (Alex Makes Art) will share information about the Pemberton Mural Project and how your family can take part.
Studio Recording 101 (Main)
Thursday, October 12
10-11 a.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.
One-on-One Tech Help at the Main Library (by appointment)
Thursday, October 12
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.
Videography 101 (Main)
Friday, October 12
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.
Drop-in Project (Valente)
Friday, October 13
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Drop by the Valente Branch to work on a project. Each week we will have a different activity. Please call 617-349-4015 if you have any questions.
Cambridge Young Authors' Squad (O'Neill)
Friday, October 14
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! If you are joining for the first time, registration is helpful but not required.
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Saturday, October 14
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.
Beginners’ Mandarin Class (Main)
Saturday, October 14
10-11:30 a.m.
Come to the Library and learn the second-most-spoken language in the world! This class, designed for beginners, is taught by Sunling Liew,an experienced Chinese-language instructor of the Ming Hui Academy Boston. No testing or experience is needed, but registration is required.
Dancing Outdoors at the Library (Main): BollyX
Saturday, October 14
10-11 a.m.
BollyX, the Bollywood Workout with Fen Tung. BollyX is a Bollywood-inspired cardio dance fitness workout that’s set to the hottest beats from India! Take a break from work, shake off stress, get your heart pumping, and come unleash your inner rockstar. This is a dance-based fitness workout, but no dance experience is necessary. It’s not about getting moves right or wrong but about celebrating movement and music!
The Oil Machine Free Film Screening (Main)
Saturday, October 14
1-3 p.m.
The Library hosts the Cambridge premiere of The Oil Machine. Stay for a talk afterward with the film's executive producer, Sonja Henrici. Interested in the connection between oil and plastics? Curious about how we can find positive solutions to the climate crisis? Join us for this powerful new documentary and meet producer Sonja Heenrici. The Oil Machine highlights the complexities of how oil is embedded in our society – from high finance to cheap consumer goods – and brings together a wide range of voices from oil company executives, economists, young activists, workers, scientists, and pension fund managers demanding change. The trailer for the film can be found here.
Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, October 14
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, October 14
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.