Director's Update, November 5, 2023
11/3/2023 • 5 months ago
Dear Patrons,
All Library locations will be closed on Friday, November 10, and Saturday, November 11, for Veterans Day.
On Monday, November 6, join the award-winning Cambridge authors Gish Jen, Claire Messud, Virginia Pye, and Laura Zigman for a discussion about Cambridge as inspiration in their writing. Registration is required.
The Library is pleased to offer the following programs for the week that begins on Sunday, November 5.
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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 6
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, November 6
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, November 6
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation.
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio
Monday, November 6
Tuesday, November 7
Wednesday, November 8
Thursday, November 9
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.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Monday, November 6
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, November 6
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, November 6
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 6
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.
CPL Nature Club: Leaf Walk and Story Time (O'Neill)
Tuesday, November 7
11 a.m.-Noon
We invite children and their grown-ups to join us for stories, followed by an outdoor walk around the Library and a fall nature craft.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, November 7, and Thursday, November 9
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 8, and Friday, November 10
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.
Zing Laser Cutting 101 (Main)
Tuesday, November 7
1-2:30 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 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.
Google Docs Basics (Main)
Tuesday, November 7
Wednesday, November 8
1-2 p.m.
Learn how to create and save your own documents online using Google Docs! 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. For more information, contact library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4041 (voice), or via relay at 711.
Navigating Solo: Planning Tools for Aging Well (Main)
Tuesday, November 7
2-3:30 p.m.
Please join us for a talk and Q&A session in 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 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 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, November 7
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 7, 3-6 p.m.
Wednesday, November 8, 6-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, November 9, 2-5 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.
Crafternoon: Color Change Beads (Collins)
Tuesday, November 7
3-4 p.m.
Come for a fun afternoon craft. We will use solar UV pony beads in a variety of projects. These special beads change color when exposed to ultraviolet sunlight. Recommended for children ages 5-10 and their caregivers.
Teens! Enter the Rainbow Realm with BAGLY and the Library! (Central Square)
Tuesday, November 7
4-6 p.m.
Join us to create the Rainbow Realm, a one-of-a-kind board game that cannot be bought in stores! The Rainbow Realm board game is all about BAGLY and LGBTQ+ trivia, and everyone who comes can add to the game! We will be creating questions and designing the layout of the game together. The Rainbow Realm will be on display at the Central Square Branch throughout November, after which it will take up permanent residence at BAGLY (the Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Youth). Open to teens (ages 13-18). For more information, please contact Kit Ferguson at 617-349-4012.
One-on-One Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, November 7
5-7 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to learn how to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by at Central Square during 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 for you
- computer hardware and technical maintenance
If you have any questions, please contact syasuda@cambridgema.gov.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, November 7
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, November 7
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.
Tai Chi Paradigm (Main)
Wednesday, November 8, and Friday November 10
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 8
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.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, November 8
1-3 p.m.
Looking for assistance creating a résumé or finding jobs? Join us for help 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 8
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 8
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 10-13 (Main)
Wednesday, November 8
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Join our Nintendo Switch party! We’ll have library consoles and games to share - plus snacks! Play multiplayer games on a big screen with up to 6 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 10-13. There will be a Nintendo Switch Party for younger kids earlier 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.
Read to a Dog (O’Connell)
Wednesday, November 8
4-5 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, November 8
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 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:
- 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.
Free Drop-In Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, November 8
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.
Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, November 8
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Continue building your machine-sewing skills and receive support as you work on your own projects. Participants must register but may drop in anytime during the program. This program is designed for patrons who know the basics of our Janome sewing machines. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Cozy Fall Creations: Crochet Pumpkin Workshop (O'Neill)
Wednesday, November 8
6-7:30 p.m.
Join us for a fun and creative autumn evening for adults! Our friendly staff member will guide you through the art of crocheting a charming pumpkin to add a touch of fall warmth to your home decor. Whether you're a novice or an experienced crafter, this workshop is open to all skill levels. Materials and guidance are provided, so just bring your enthusiasm for crafting and the joy of the season!
Brewery Book Club (Lamplighter)
Wednesday, November 8
7-8:30 p.m.
You’re invited to our November Brewery Book Club, where Lamplighter and the Library team up to highlight contemporary works from marginalized voices while having a beer. This month we’ll read A Mind Spread Out on the Ground by Alicia Elliott. Copies of the book are available at the Main Library. We’ll gather in the Lamplighter back taproom to discuss the book, what we learned, what touched us, and all other thoughts.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main, by appointment)
Thursday, November 9
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 Arts Adventure with Lenni: A Machine-Sewing Workshop Series (Main)
Thursday, November 9
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 9
- Thursday, November 16
This workshop is designed for patrons who know the basics of how to use our Janome sewing machines. 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.