Programs hosted by the Library provide an opportunity for civic dialogue, conversation, and learning, which includes exploring a wide-range of views. Programs do not constitute an endorsement of beliefs by the Library, Library staff, the Library's Board of Trustees, or the City of Cambridge. Please contact Zachary Bond at zbond@cambridgema.gov with questions about Library programs and events.
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.
Events
Displaying 11 results
9:30 AM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
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 sewing project—a drawstring bag—which most students will be able to complete by the end of the class.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. If you have not completed the training, you will be removed from the class—even if you plan to take it later. To take Safety Training, come to The Hive during Open Shop to watch a ten-minute video or take a Safety Training class. Check hours on our calendar: [link].
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
10:00 AM
Main Library, Rey Room, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
We invite children and their caregivers to a 30-minute session of songs and stories in Mandarin Chinese with Mina (Yating) Fan, a local mother and educator. This fun and interactive session brings families together to enjoy lively songs and engaging stories in a warm, welcoming environment.
This program can accommodate 45 people. 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.
Funding for this program has been generously provided by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
10:30 AM
Come join us at the Central Square Library
45 Pearl Street
Cambridge
No registration required - just drop in.
Small English conversation group and instruction.
Ideal for intermediate level.
11:30 AM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Are you an intermediate or advanced sewer? This class 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. Up to two patrons can register for this class.
This class is designed for patrons who have prior experience using a sewing machine to complete many types of fiber arts projects. If you are new to machine sewing, we recommend you take our Sewing 101 workshop before using our serger.
You must complete Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Please arrive on time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be able to join the class.
1:00 PM
O'Neill Branch, 70 Rindge Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140
Collaborate on a biodiversity banner to celebrate Moth Week with a sewing circle on July 11 and July 18.
Wildlife Arts invites the community to hand sew blocks for a multi-moth fabric banner! We'll teach beginning sewers, and children old enough to handle a needle may work on caterpillar blocks (recommended for age 10 and up). You'll learn about moth biodiversity in Massachusetts and help publicize the humble and little-known world of moths. The banner will be displayed at the Cambridge Moth Ball on July 22 at Fresh Pond Reservation and will be available in the Wildlife Arts banner lending library when complete.
All materials will be provided. Registration is suggested. You may attend one or both sessions.
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.
1:00 PM
O'Neill Branch, 70 Rindge Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140
Come to the Library to create something special! Use your own supplies or try out our equipment! You can use our 1-inch button maker, 2.5 inch button maker, 3-D Doodle pens, or Janome sewing machines. The Library will provide basic supplies. *This month you are invited to join in a community sewing circle to help create a Moth Banner. Learn more here: https://cambridgepl.libcal.com/event/16984382
This drop-in program is for people who feel comfortable using these machines on their own. The Library will not provide instruction. Anyone wishing to use the sewing machines must have completed a Sewing 101 training through the Library. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
2:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
During Open Shop, anyone who has completed Hive training and is badged can reserve Hive equipment or studio spaces. Additionally, individuals are welcome to drop in to work on their projects independently. The Hive staff will assist with questions as they are able!
New makers are also welcome to come in during open shop for a 10min drop in video safety training!
Tool Reservations for this date will open two weeks prior from this date.
2:00 PM
Main Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
riah is a Cape Verdean-American artist from Boston with a musical style that blends alt/pop, R&B, and neo-soul. After amassing over two million combined streams with her first widely successful hit “Too Fast,” riah released her first EP “Head/Space” in 2024. Her debut album "Garden" deals with themes of self-love amidst anxiety and uncertainty, and is streaming everywhere.
PARK SOUNDS 2026 brings free outdoor musical performances featuring local artists to the front lawn of the Cambridge Public Library Main Branch. These events are all-ages. Bring a chair, food, and loved ones to celebrate the summer! Funding is provided by the CPL Foundation in memory of Janet Axelrod.
2:00 PM
Main Library, Community Room, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Curious about strength training but unsure where to begin? This welcoming, beginner-friendly program is designed to remove the uncertainty and help you build a strong, confident foundation—safely and effectively.
Led by master fitness trainer, author, and motivational speaker Shaun Zetlin, this session introduces simple, practical bodyweight exercises that focus on stability, strength, and power. Participants will learn how to move with proper form, reduce the risk of injury, and incorporate efficient, effective workouts into a busy schedule—no gym required. All exercises are approachable and adaptable, with many options performed at home using minimal or no equipment.
Registration is preferred not required.
2:00 PM
Main Library, Curious George Room, 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Join us for a collaborative experience where families build and battle robots together. This event is recommended for children ages 7 and up and their families.
This program can accommodate 16 families. 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.
Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
3:00 PM
Valente Branch, 826 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA 02141
Join us for a bilingual family concert in English and Spanish. Singing, dancing and tons of fun guaranteed! Recommended for children of all ages and their caregivers. Registration is not required for this event.
Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.