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Launch of Anti-racism Liberation Libraries (Corner of Essex Street and Harvard Street)

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Event image for Launch of Anti-racism Liberation Libraries (Corner of Essex Street and Harvard Street)

The City of Cambridge, in partnership with My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Cambridge, will launch five mini free libraries, entitled Liberation Libraries, across the city on April 12. The Liberation Libraries were created to advance literacy and community in the city. A ribbon-cutting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12, from 4-5 p.m., at the Essex and Harvard Street location, next to the Moses Youth Center. The rain date is set for April 21, from 4-5 p.m., at the same location. This exciting project is a collaboration between MBK Cambridge, the Mayor’s Office, the City Manager’s Office, and the Cambridge Public Library. Refreshments will be served and community members are welcome to attend. 

The mission of the Liberation Libraries is to expose Cambridge residents to the Black and Brown lived experience through literature. The Liberation Libraries will be stocked with an intentional selection of books written by Black and Brown authors and will include titles for all ages. Authors highlighted in the first offering include Imani Perry, Jacqueline Woodson, George M. Tracey Baptiste, Kelly Starling Lyons, and Useni Eugene Perkins.  

The Liberation Libraries will be installed and accessible to all members of the Cambridge community at the following locations: 

  • Corner of Cherry Street and Eaton Street
  • Corner Jackson Street and Rindge Ave.
  • Corner of Western Ave. and Jay Street
  • Corner of Cedar Street and Rindge Ave.
  • Corner of Essex Street and Harvard Street  

Funding for the Liberation Libraries was provided by the City of Cambridge and the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.  

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 cplcommunications@cambridgema.gov, or by phone at 617.349.4040, or via relay at 711. 

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