Dear Library Patrons,
Cambridge Public Library to Pilot Going Fine Free
In July 2020, the City of Cambridge announced the Library will
pilot the elimination of overdue fines for the late return/renewal of materials and the elimination of replacement fees for lost/damaged Cambridge children’s and young adult materials. The Library will continue to assess and collect lost/damaged fees for adult collection materials and fines and fees specifically related to our resource sharing agreements with other libraries (Comcat, Interlibrary Loan).
The elimination of overdue fines will ensure equitable access to library services for everyone in our community. The Library is currently working to update our policies, procedures and systems to prepare for the official fine free pilot. As the pilot moves forward, the Library will reach out to patrons with existing fines and fees.
Technology Checkout Begins
In keeping with our commitment to expand access to technology during the COVID closure, the Library is excited to begin
providing technology for checkout on August 10, through contactless holds pickup. Patrons can borrow technology for up to two weeks, with a one-time renewal (if there are no existing holds or fines). Four different models of Chromebooks are available for checkout, including a charging cable, mouse and carrying case. Patrons can request a technology device by calling the Main Library at 617-349-4040, providing their library card number and scheduling a pickup time.
Kids Books to Go Wednesday at Central Square Branch
At Kids Books to Go pop-up events, youth and families can borrow bags of library books for kids and teens without having to make an appointment or place catalog requests. Title selections are curated by Cambridge Public Library children's librarians. Bins will also be available for library returns during this event. The next Kids Books to Go events are scheduled at the following locations:
- Wednesday, August 12, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., at the Central Square Branch, 45 Pearl Street
- Wednesday, August 19, from 12-3 p.m., at the Boudreau Branch, 245 Concord Avenue
- Monday, August 24, from 2-5 p.m., at the Collins Branch, 64 Aberdeen Avenue
- Friday, August 28, from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m., at the O’Connell Branch, 48 Sixth Street
This Week beginning Monday at 12 p.m.! Book Giveaway: Keep Reading and Keep Learning!
The Cambridge Public Library invites children and families who are picking up lunch at Cambridge Summer Food Program sites near our branch libraries to also take home a book of their own to keep during the week of August 10.
The Valente Branch Library will have books available at the King Open School lunch site (840 Cambridge St.) at noon on Monday, August 10 and Thursday, August 13, while supplies last.
The O’Neill Branch Library will have books available at the Peabody School lunch site (70 Rindge Ave) at noon on Tuesday, August 11 and Friday, August 14, while supplies last.
One book per child, while supplies last. These books are provided by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
Join us for Story Times
The next
Virtual STEAM Story Time: Flying Fun will be on Wednesday, August 12 at 11 a.m. Children and their grownups can join us for 20-25 minutes of stories and hands-on activities to explore STEAM. Please gather activity materials before the event if you plan to participate.
Registration is required.
Upcoming Summer Reading Programs
Crafting at the CPL
We will offer
Natural Dyeing - Turn Around Your Textiles with Lisa Purdy on Thursday, August 13 at 6 p.m. Natural dyeing is a rewarding way to creatively upcycle! There are numerous dyes to explore right in your own kitchen, from the pale pink created by dyeing with avocado pits, to the golden yellow of turmeric. Local artist and curator Lisa Purdy will teach you how to naturally dye at home, demonstrating how to turnaround an item of clothing (or other textiles!) using natural dye sources.
Registration is required.
Danez Smith
Danez Smith presents Homie on Monday, August 17 at 7 p.m.
Homie is Danez Smith’s magnificent anthem about the saving grace of friendship. Rooted in the loss of one of Smith’s close friends, this book comes out of the search for joy and intimacy within a nation where both can seem scarce and getting scarcer. Danez Smith (they/them) is a Black, Queer, Poz writer & performer from St. Paul, MN.
Registration is required.
Community Yoga, Sundays in August
Practice yoga from the comfort of your own home!
Community Yoga continues Sunday August 16 at 10 a.m. Instructor Cap Aguilar will provide various options and information to support your unique expression of yoga and to honor yoga’s Black and Brown roots. This series welcomes all bodies, ages, abilities, backgrounds, hopes, and dreams.
Registration is required.
Stay Connected
All best,
Dr. Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries