Director's Update, December 3, 2023
12/1/2023 • 5 months ago
Dear Patrons,
This Thursday, December 7, we’re thrilled to host Amanda Peters, the author of the debut novel The Berry Pickers, for a reading and conversation at 6 p.m. Register today to join us in person or over Zoom. Shortlisted for the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, winner of the 2023 Barnes & Noble Discover Prize, and named as one of the Amazon Editors' Best Books of 2023, The Berry Pickers is a novel about the strength of familial bonds even in the face of deliberate attempts to sever such connections.
On Saturday, December 9, at 1 p.m., join us for a screening of Polite Society, followed by a talk led by the Boston Globe’s film critic, Odie Henderson. Please note: registration is not required to attend the film, but registration is required for the talk.
###
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, December 4
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 Story Time: An Explosion of Colors (Collins)
Monday, December 4
10:30 -11:15 a.m.
As the weather turns gray, join us for a bonus story time to fill your morning with color. We'll read stories, sing songs, and complete a craft all about colors. For children of all ages and a caregiver.
Wellness for Seniors: Zumba Gold (Virtual)
Monday, December 4
11-11:45 a.m.
A fun, dynamic, and ultimately blissful combo. We start with some high-energy (low-impact) dance fitness, and then work our way through the seven energy centers (chakras) with Let Your Yoga Dance. You will leave with a good workout and a peaceful, happy mind/body/spirit. It’s good for everybody! Registration is required for each session. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Monday, December 4, 2-4 p.m.
Wednesday, December 6, 6-8:30 p.m.
Friday, December 8, 1-4:30 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.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Monday, December 4
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, December 4
Tuesday, December 5
Wednesday, December 6
Thursday, December 7
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, December 4
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, December 4
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. Please contact us with any questions at 617-349-4027 (voice) or via relay at 711.
ESOL Class (Valente)
Monday, December 4
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, December 4
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, December 5, and Thursday, December 7
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 6, and Friday, December 8
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, December 5
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 booking page at designated times. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
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.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, December 5
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.
One-on-One Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, December 5
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, December 5
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, December 5, and Thursday, December 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.
Cheese 101 with Formaggio Kitchen (Collins)
Tuesday, December 5
8:15-9:15 p.m.
Join the experts at Formaggio Kitchen for this workshop! Taste and learn about delicious cheeses while enjoying time with neighbors. All participants will receive a cheese bundle at the time of the class courtesy of the Library. This event will take place at Formaggio Kitchen (358 Huron Ave.). Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. Please contact Lucy with any questions at 617-349-4021 or by e-mail at lflamm@cambridgema.gov.
Wellness for Seniors: Tai Chi Paradigm (Main)
Wednesday, December 6, and Friday, December 8
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. This is a make-up class. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
All About Zoom: Online Meeting Basics (Main)
Wednesday, December 6
11 a.m.-Noon
Learn how to use Zoom, get some hands-on practice, and get all of your questions answered!
From online classes to connecting with loved ones, Zoom is a great tool. We will cover the basics and make sure you are able to join a Zoom meeting or start one of your own!
Laptops will be provided for the class. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, December 6
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, December 6
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, December 6
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.
Cambridge Cooks: Ploy's Kitchen makes Thai Noodle Salad (Main)
Wednesday, December 6
3-4 p.m.
Learn how to make vegan Thai Noodle Salad from chef Ploy Khunisorn. All participants will receive an herbal tea, perfect for winter. Cambridge Cooks invites local chefs for a free cooking demonstration, followed by a tasting and Q&A with the chef. Registration is required.
CPL Nature Club: Winter Scavenger Hunt at Raymond Park (Boudreau)
Wednesday, December 6
3-3:45 p.m.
It might not technically be winter yet, but Raymond Park (112 Raymond St.) definitely has some clues that winter's on its way! Join us on a quest to find them and learn a bit about the coming season. No registration is required; just show up at Raymond Park. Call 617-349-4017 with any questions.
The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, December 6
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.
One-on-One Tech Help (Boudreau, by Appointment)
Wednesday, December 6
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:
- 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’s equipment.
If you have questions, please send them to: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov.
Housed in Cambridge: Drop-in Hours (Valente)
Wednesday, December 6
5-7:30 p.m.
Do you have a question about housing? Staff from the City will be available to answer questions and provide information. All are welcome. You can bring questions about shelters, rental programs, home ownership, and legal rights. This will be up to a 20-minute talk with housing experts to identify the next steps for future conversations. You will learn about housing opportunities and how to access housing resources and services. Knowing your household’s annual income will help us to understand the housing options available to you. Housed in Cambridge is a citywide campaign designed to educate and inform residents about housing opportunities and resources.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, December 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 617-349-4027 with any questions.
Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, December 6
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Continue building your machine-sewing skills and receive support with 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.
Serger Training (Main)
Thursday, December 7
9-10:30 a.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. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main, by appointment)
Thursday, December 7
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.
Google Drive Basics: Organize Your Files (Main)
Thursday, December 7
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Learn how to create folders and organize your files on Google Drive, your online file storage connected to your gmail account. You will learn how to use Google Drive to manage your files and images. A gmail (Google) account is required for the class. Please remember your gmail and password; you will need them to sign in and practice during the class.
Laptops will be provided for the class. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Get Creative! Series: Linocut Printmaking Workshop (Main)
Thursday, December 7
2-4 p.m.
Learn the printmaking process of linocut with Brooke Lambert, a professional printmaker and painter with a passionate interest in the arts! This class will cover techniques in carving linoleum, composition, ink mixing, and printing. At their own pace, students will learn how to create a design and carve it in linoleum. They will also learn how to ink and print their linoleum blocks by hand. In a relaxed and welcoming environment, students will create many beautiful prints of their own as well as collaborate with their classmates. Registration is required.
Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Thursday, December 7
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).
CPL Nature Club: Hibernation Story Time (O'Connell)
Thursday, December 7
3:30-4 p.m.
We invite children and their grown-ups to join us for 20-25 minutes of songs, stories, and rhymes, with a craft to take and make at home while supplies last. We will read stories about hibernation! No registration is required. Please call 617-349-4019 for location and details.
CPL Presents: Amanda Peters, author of The Berry Pickers (Main/Hybrid)
Thursday, December 7
6-7:30 p.m.
Join Amanda Peters, the author of the debut novel The Berry Pickers, for a reading and conversation. Shortlisted for the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, winner of the 2023 Barnes & Noble Discover Prize, and one of the Amazon Editors' Best Books of 2023, The Berry Pickers is a novel about the strength of familial bonds even in the face of deliberate attempts to sever such connections.
The story follows the parallel lives and struggles of two Mi'kmaq siblings in the wake of a traumatic kidnapping in Maine, an event which forever sets Joe and his younger sister, Ruthie, on diverging paths toward their uncertain futures. Hailed as "poignant" in a Booklist starred review, The Berry Pickers is a powerful and necessary story for our own time. This event is cosponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation. Registration is required.
Videography 101 (Main)
Friday, December 8
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. Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
XR Lab 101 (Main)
Saturday, December 9
9:30-10:30 a.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.
Beginners’ Mandarin Class (Main)
Saturday, December 9
10-11:30 a.m.
Come learn the second-most-spoken language in the world! This class 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.
Studio Recording 101 (Main)
Saturday, December 9
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.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. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Saturday Screenings: Polite Society (Main)
Saturday, December 9
1-4 p.m.
Saturday Screenings presents a free showing of the film Polite Society (dir. Nida Manzoor).
After the film, join us in the Community Room for a talk led by the Boston Globe’s film critic, Odie Henderson. Please note that registration is not required to attend the film, registration is required for the talk. The link to register for the talk can be found here. About the film: The martial artist-in-training Ria Khan believes she must save her older sister Lena from her impending marriage. After enlisting the help of her friends, Ria attempts to pull off the most ambitious of all wedding heists in the name of independence and sisterhood.
CPL Nature Club - Winter Birdwatching at Fresh Pond (O'Neill)
Saturday, December 9
1-2:30 p.m.
All ages are welcome to observe birds at Fresh Pond, which provides habitat for many different species at all times of the year. This event will focus on birds that can be found in the winter, including several species of ducks, sparrows and more. We may also see some of our year-round resident birds. We will discuss general birdwatching tips and learn more about the birds we share our outdoor spaces with. A limited supply of binoculars will be available. Please dress appropriately, as we will be outside for the entire walk. 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. The walk will meet outside the ranger station/water department building at Fresh Pond. In case of bad weather, it will be rescheduled to Saturday, December 30. For more information, contact Becca Evans at revans@cambridgema.gov or call the O'Neill Branch at 617-349-4023.
Sewing 101 (Main)
Saturday, December 9
2:30-4 p.m.
Come 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.
Stay Connected
Please subscribe to our e-mail list, follow us on X, Instagram, or Facebook, and visit our website.
All the best,
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries
###
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.
Is this Main, Virtual, both?