J. Courtney Sullivan presents: The Cliffs (Main)
Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library welcome J. Courtney Sullivan—New York Times best-selling author of the novels Commencement, Maine, The Engagements, Saints for All Occasions, and Friends and Strangers—to celebrate the paperback release of her new novel The Cliffs, a Reese's Book Club Pick, named a "Best Book of the Month" by The New York Times, Real Simple, and Kirkus. Registration is required.
Bicycle Workshop: Rules of the Road (Valente)
Join the Cambridge Community Development Department for a bicycle workshop on learning the rules of the road at the Valente Branch Library. Registration is required.
This workshop covers the following topics:
Rules of the road
Bike-specific laws and legislation
Car-specific laws and legislation
General safety tips
Routing ideas for new riders
Real traffic scenarios and common crash situations
Paint Party at the Library (O'Connell)
Treat yourself to an afternoon of fun, creativity, and community while a local artist guides us step-by-step through the process of painting a beautiful art piece, suitable for hanging on your door or wall. Tea and light refreshments provided.
No experience necessary. All are welcome.
Old clothing recommended, as acrylic paint can stain.
Seating is limited to 8. Registration is required and will open November 24.
Movie Night: WE WANT THE FUNK! (Valente)
Join us for movie night at the Valente Branch to celebrate Black History Month!
WE WANT THE FUNK! is a syncopated voyage through the history of funk music, spanning from African, soul, and early jazz roots, to its rise into the public consciousness.
Registration helpful.
Richard Russo presents: Under the Falls (Main)
Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library welcome Richard Russo—acclaimed author of ten novels, including the Pulitzer Prize-winner Empire Falls—for a discussion of his new novel, Under the Falls. He will be joined in conversation by Tom Perrotta—New York Times bestselling author of eleven works of fiction, including Election, Little Children, Mrs. Fletcher, The Leftovers, and Ghost Town. Registration is required.
[CANCELLED] Park Sounds: The Lion Sisters (Main)
The Lion Sisters are a sibling duo with Josi on fiddle and vocals, and Lily on guitar and vocals. They're from New Hampshire, known for tight sister harmonies and genre-blending sound that fuses folk, bluegrass, Irish fiddle, vintage country with a modern edge.
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.
Shop for Free for Teens!
Join The Spot and the Cambridge Public Library to shop for free for winter clothing! Coats, hats, and other clothing will be available. Clothing will be available in both the Rossi Room and the Teens Room.
Pride Concert with the Grumpytime Club (Main)
Cambridge Main Library celebrates pride with the Grumpytime Club! The Grumpytime Club’s original music for children and their caregivers is creative, positive, thoughtful, beautifully crafted, and catchy as cake! Led by award-winning singer songwriter Carrie Ferguson, the Grumpytime Club creates live shows that are often jubilant sing-along dance parties, highlighting themes of inclusivity, social justice, Earth stewardship and LGBTQ youth/family JOY! Party in the Curious George Room with families of all ages, and join CPL in showing your pride!
Summer Fitness: Tai Chi under the tree
Join instructor Ellen DeGenova, at the main branch park, to explore Tai Chi elements (without the complicated choreography). Tai Chi offers highly adaptable and accessible ways of moving for everyone. Being outdoors and learning together inspires a sense of well-being and community. A seated option is available. No experience necessary. In case of inclement weather, class will be held in the library’s Community Room.