Director's Update, January 14, 2024
1/12/2024 • 3 months ago
Dear Patrons,
Happy Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. All Library locations will be closed on Monday, January 15 for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther Kings Jr’s life and legacy, the Library will host the 49th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day event on Tuesday, January 16, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The hybrid event will feature a keynote address by Randall Kennedy, the Micheal R. Klein Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and the author of many books. Registration is required to attend this event.
The Main Library is hosting an exhibition of portraits of Dr. King created by Korean and American artists on the autism spectrum using their own personal styles and approach. The exhibition, on L2, which opened on Sunday, January 7, and will close on Saturday, January 20. On Saturday, January 13, Heyon Choi, the director of the exhibition, will give a lecture about neurodiversity through artistic expression. Register for the lecture here.
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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.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, January 16, 1-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 18, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, January 19, 9 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.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, January 16 and Thursday, January 18
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 17, and Friday, January 19
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.
Intro to LinkedIn Learning (Main)
Tuesday, January 16
1-2 p.m.
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. 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.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, January 16
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.
STEAM Academy: iFp Studio
Tuesday, January 16
Thursday, January 18
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.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, January 16
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.
CPL Nature Club: Morning Bird Watching Walk at Mount Auburn Cemetery (Collins)
Wednesday, January 17
10:15-11:30 a.m.
Join us at the Collins Branch library for a morning walk at the renowned birdwatching spot in our own backyard, Mount Auburn Cemetery! We will help you identify birds, learn birdwatching tips and tricks, and familiarize yourself with Winter migratory birds as well as those that can be spotted all year round. A limited supply of binoculars will be available. Registration is required.
The walk will meet at the courtyard of the Collins Branch (64 Aberdeen Ave.) at 10:15 AM and head over to Mount Auburn Cemetery together. For more information, contact Michael Roberson at mroberson@cambridgema.gov or call the Collins Branch at 617-349-4021.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, January 17
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.
Google Photos Basics: Organize Your Photos! (Main)
Wednesday, January 17
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Learn how to use Google Photos to organize and save your photos and videos!
In the class, you will learn how to:
- Store photos and videos
- Organize and understand features of Google Photos
- Share photos with friends and family
A laptop will be available for use during class.
To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
English Conversation Practice, Intermediate (O'Neill)
Wednesday, January 17
1-2:30 p.m.
Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Conversation Practice. This group is for those with an intermediate or high level of English language skill. No testing is required. For more information on other ESOL classes, please call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, January 17
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.
3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Wednesday, January 17
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.
Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, January 17
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.
Nintendo Switch Party for Ages 7-9 (Main)
Wednesday, January 17
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Join our Nintendo Switch party! We'll have two multiplayer games available to play on our library consoles. This program is for ages 7-9. There will be a Nintendo Switch Party for older kids in February. This program can accommodate 16 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.
One-on-One Tech Help by Appointment (Boudreau)
Wednesday, January 17
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 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 30-45 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
Free Drop-In Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, January 17
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 of the Main Library on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please contact 617-349-4027 with any questions.
Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, January 17
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. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Wednesday Word Puzzles (O'Connell)
Wednesday, January 17
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Drop in to try some fun puzzles every week: word searches, riddles, and variety crosswords! You can come alone or bring a grown-up. Recommended for ages 11 and up. No registration is required. E-mail cmeisler@cambridgema.gov for more details.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, January 18
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation.
Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Thursday, January 18
2:30-3 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 an 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.
Crafternoon: Snowflakes (Collins)
Thursday, January 18
4-5 p.m.
Celebrate the winter season with an afternoon craft at Collins Branch. We'll provide supplies and instructions to cut traditional snowflakes and advanced 3-D versions using multiple sheets of paper. Recommended for ages 5 and up with a caregiver.
XR Lab 101 (Main)
Thursday, January 18
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.
Cambridge Young Authors' Squad with author Phoebe Sinclair (O'Neill)
Friday, Saturday 19
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! On January 19 we will be joined by local author, Phoebe Sinclair, author of Confessions of a Candy Snatcher. If you are attending for the first time, registration is helpful, but not required.
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Saturday, January 20
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 Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Drop-in Mini Golf for All Ages (Valente)
Saturday, January 20
1:30-4:30 p.m.
Join us for some indoor fun! Stop by this afternoon to play a round of mini golf. Please arrive no later than 3:30pm to have time to complete one round of golf. On the day of, stop by the Front desk to reserve your tee time.
Drop-in Mini Golf for All Ages (Valente)
Saturday, January 20
1:30-4:30 p.m.
Join us for some indoor fun! Stop by this afternoon to play a round of mini golf. Please arrive no later than 3:30pm to have time to complete one round of golf. On the day of, stop by the Front desk to reserve your tee time.
Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, January 20
1:30-3 p.m.
Bring your own fiber arts project and join us for a delightful crafting session. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, enjoy tea, snacks, and engaging conversations with fellow crafters. Please remember to bring your own supplies; no formal instructions will be provided. No registration is required.
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All the best,
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries