Director's Update, November 12, 2023
11/12/2023 • 5 months ago
Dear Patrons,
Did you know that November is National Novel Writing Month? The Library has some exciting programs this week to help you in your writing journey. In collaboration with NaNoBoston, join us at the Main Library to get your creativity flowing on Sunday, November 12. Writers of all ages are invited to the Valente branch on Tuesday, November 14, for a writing session.
Also on Tuesday, November 14, we’re hosting a screening of Madan Sara, a film about the Haitian women known as Madan Sara who work tirelessly to buy, distribute, and sell food and other essentials in markets throughout the country.
All Library locations will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 22 and remain closed on Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24 for Thanksgiving.
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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, November 13
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.
CPL Nature Club: Fresh Pond Nature Walk (Collins)
Monday, November 13
10:15-11:30 a.m.
Join us for a relaxing walk of Fresh Pond with the park ranger Tim Puopolo! No two weeks are the same in nature, and Tim will share his insights about what's growing, changing, and blooming in the neighborhood. The path of this walk is not paved. We will walk on uneven terrain, down hills, and over roots. Registration is required. This event can only accommodate a certain number of participants. One registration is good for one person. If you do not register, you cannot participate.
Wellness for Seniors: Zumba Gold (Virtual)
Monday, November 13
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.
Intro to Libby: E-books and Audiobooks (Main)
Monday, November 13
1-2 p.m.
Learn how to borrow e-books and audiobooks on Libby for free with your library card! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Monday, October 23
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation.
Sewing 101 (Main)
Monday, November 13
3-4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, November 14
1-2:30 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 when operating a sewing machine. As we learn together, we’ll work on a simple 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.
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio
Monday, November 13
Tuesday, November 14
Wednesday, November 15
Thursday, November 16
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.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, November 13
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. https://cambridgepl.libcal.com/event/10274564. Learn more.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Monday, November 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 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, November 13
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, November 13
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, November 14, and Thursday, November 16
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 15, and Friday, November 17
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.
Navigating Solo: Planning Tools for Aging Well (Main)
Tuesday, November 14
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. Each session will include a 60-minute talk and 30-minute Q&A period on the topics as 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:
- November 14: Bringing It All Together: Developing an Organized Solo Aging Plan, please click here.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, November 14
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, November 14, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, November 17, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 18, 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.
Teen Anime Club (Valente)
Wednesday, November 14
3-4:30 p.m.
Join us for an anime-filled afternoon. Enjoy the company of friends and snacks as we dive into a show together! Open to preteens and teens ages 12 and up. Please contact the Library at 617-349-4015 for more information.
Free Film Screening: Madan Sara (Main)
Tuesday, November 14
5-7:30 p.m.
Join us for a screening of Madan Sara followed by a Q&A with the director, Etant Dupain. The film revolves around the Haitian women known as Madan Sara who buy, distribute, and sell food and other essentials in markets throughout the country. Despite the obstacles faced by these women, who work in a critically underfunded and overlooked sector of the economy, they persist and have become a crucial part of the Haitian economy. Watch the trailer of Madan Sara.
One-on-One Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, November 14
5-7 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to learn how to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by Central Square for our drop-in hours! Sessions will be limited to 30 minutes for each patron.
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.
Blackout Poetry Workshop (Collins)
Tuesday, November 14
5-6 p.m.
Blackout poetry lets us choose words to hide on the page, which creates new poems based on the words that shine through. Join us to use upcycled newspapers and magazines to come up with our very own poems. All supplies will be provided. Registration is not required.
Questions? Contact Lucy at LFlamm@CambridgeMA.gov or call 617-349-4022.
NaNoWriMo Come Write In! (Valente)
Tuesday, November 14
5:30-7:45 p.m.
Writers of all ages are welcome to work on their National Novel Writing Month projects in the Community Room. Outlets and free WiFi are available.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, November 14
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, November 15, and Friday, November 17
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, November 15
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 Hangout: Perler Beads (Collins)
Wednesday, November 15
1-2 p.m.
Visit us for a fun after-school activity. In November, work with Perler Beads to follow a pattern or create your very own unique design. We'll fuse the finished product into place for you to take home. Recommended for children ages 5-10 and their caregivers.
Half-Day Hangout: Board Games (Valente)
Wednesday, November 15
1-3 p.m.
Join us after the half-day for board games! Play with your friends and family or meet someone new! The Library will provide board games for a range of ages. No registration is required. Contact the Library at 617-349-4015 for more information.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, November 15
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.
ACP Help Sign Up Appointments (Main)
Wednesday, November 15
2-5 p.m.
We can help you apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)! Laptops will be available to apply online. Appointments are required. The Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible households with a monthly discount on home Internet. To book an appointment, please click the following link: https://tinyurl.com/acpsignuphelp or call us at 617-349-4041. Spots are limited. Please review the appointment registration to see what documents you need to bring. Each appointment is 30 minutes.
Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, November 15
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.
Create Resumes with Google Docs (Central Square)
Wednesday, November 15
3-4 p.m.
Learn how to create a resume using Google Docs in a friendly environment. A Gmail account is required for this class. Please remember your password! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Read to a Dog (O'Connell)
Wednesday, November 15
3-4 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).
The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, November 15
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 ages 12-18. Thanks to The Hive team for offering this program.
Free Drop-In Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, November 15
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. Thanks to Youth Services for this program.
Watercolor Painting Workshop (Boudreau)
Wednesday, November 15
6-8 p.m.
Create beautiful paintings with watercolor! Learn to paint with watercolor at your own pace in a relaxing environment. We will cover techniques in color mixing, observational painting, composition, wet on wet and wet on dry techniques, masking, pressing, shading, light techniques, ink washes, and pattern making. No experience is necessary. Registration is required. This workshop is full. A waiting list has been enabled.
Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Wednesday, November 15
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, November 16
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, November 18
9-10 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. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main, by appointment)
Thursday, November 16
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 are 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.
Get Creative! Series: Watercolor Painting Workshop (Main)
Thursday, November 16
2-4 p.m.
Learn to paint with watercolor at your own pace in a relaxing environment. We will cover techniques in color mixing, observational painting, composition, wet on wet and wet on dry techniques, masking, pressing, shading, light techniques, ink washes, and pattern making. No experience is necessary. Registration is required.
The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Thursday, November 16
7:30-8 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. Registration is required.
Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Thursday, November 16
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 by calling or visiting the O’Neill Branch (617-349-4023).
Fiber Arts Adventure with Lenni: A Machine-Sewing Workshop Series (Main)
Thursday, November 16
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. 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. Registration is required. A waitlist has been enabled.
XR Lab 101 (Main)
Thursday, November 16
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.
Friday Drop-in Project: Write Letters of Encouragement (Valente)
Friday, November 17
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Drop by to enjoy a self-directed activity. Each week we will have a different activity designed for adults.
Intro to LinkedIn Learning (Main)
Friday, November 17
11 a.m.-Noon
Learn how to access LinkedIn Learning with your Library card, for free! LinkedIn Learning is an online educational site with thousands of courses in business, software, technology, and creative skills. LinkedIn Learning offers courses in English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish, Mandarin, and Portuguese. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Teen Room x The Hive (Main)
Friday, November 17
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 drop-in event is designed for ages 12-18.
Cambridge Young Authors’ Squad (O’Neill)
Friday, November 17
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 18
10-11:30 a.m.
Come learn the second-most-spoken language in the world! This class for beginners is taught by Sunling Liew, an experienced Chinese-language instructor at the Ming Hui Academy Boston. No testing or experience is needed, but registration is required.
The class sessions are as follows:
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 but foresee a scheduling issue, please reach out to zbond@cambridgema.gov.
Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, November 18
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.
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.