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Director's Update, June 4, 2023

Main Library Lecture Hall

Dear Patrons,

The Central Square Branch is adding Wednesday evening hours and extending Children’s Room hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning on Monday, June 5. This is part of the City’s and Library's commitment to expanding service at the library branches. All the branches are now open five weekdays and three weeknights. I invite you to visit your branch library if you have not done so recently!

On Sunday, June 11, at 2-4 p.m. in the Joan Lorentz Park, join our annual commemoration of the Supreme Court decision making interracial marriages legal in all states. The program will include games, music, food and lots of family entertainment. It’s sponsored by the City of Cambridge Citizens' Committee on Civic Unity, the Mayor's office, the City Manager's office, and the Cambridge Public Library.

On Sunday, June 18, at 2-4 p.m. in the Lecture Hall at the Main Library, we will welcome Gary Victor, the well-known Haitian writer, in conversation with Patrick Sylvain. This event will introduce the larger Haitian community of Cambridge and Somerville to Victor, who will discuss the role of literature and citizenship in Haiti's current political turmoil. Victor was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and is considered a national treasure as a contemporary writer for radio, film, and television. Patrick Sylvain is a Haitian-American poet, writer, social and literary critic, and photographer who has published widely on Haiti and Haitian diaspora culture, politics, language, and religion. He is the author of several books of poetry in English and Haitian, and his poems have been nominated for the prestigious Pushcart Prize.

On Tuesday, June 20, at 6 p.m., the Library will host a commemoration of Juneteenth through music, theater, and poetry. It will feature performances by the actress Alexandria Danielle King; the historian and artist David Barkley, aka Ebony Three Arrows; the singers and songwriters Alana Womack and Pelaiah Auset; the poet and performer Denise Washington; the African master drummer Nko Fallou Fall; and the cellist Joshua Leak. Registration is required to participate in this program, which is sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.

On Wednesday, June 21, at 6 p.m., the Library welcomes Ilyon Woo, the New York Times best-selling author of Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom. The book tells the story of Ellen and William Craft, who achieved one of the boldest feats of self-emancipation in American history. Posing as master and slave while sustained by their love as husband and wife, Ellen and William made their escape across more than 1,000 miles, riding out in the open on steamboats, carriages, and trains that took them from bondage in Georgia to the free states of the North. Master Slave Husband Wife is the true story of the Crafts’ long journey to freedom as they traveled another 1,000 miles on the abolitionist lecture circuit; escaped slave hunters, following the passage of an infamous new Fugitive Slave Law; and were forced to flee again, this time from the United States. Woo will be in conversation with Dr. Myisha Eatmon, an assistant professor in African and African American Studies and History at Harvard. Registration is required to participate.

On Saturday, June 24, from 1-3 p.m. at Joan Lorentz Park, we will host a special session of Park Sounds, the Library’s outdoor summer music series: Jazz in Conversation with Poetry: The Joel Larue Smith Trio with the poet Patrick Sylvain. Moving seamlessly between the constellations of jazz styles and the rich and varied literature of the classical masters, Joel LaRue Smith is one of those rare and gifted pianists whose music skills encompass both. His skills as a pianist and his intuitive understanding of each composer he interprets speak directly and intimately to his listeners. Sylvain is a Haitian-American poet, writer, social and literary critic, and photographer who has published widely on Haiti and Haitian diaspora culture, politics, language, and religion. He is the author of several books of poetry in English and Haitian, and his poems have been nominated for the prestigious Pushcart Prize. Learn more. This program is supported by the Friends of the Cambridge Public Library.

There are a few more days for Cambridge students in grades 6-12 to participate in the essay contest about Juneteenth by the Office of Mayor Siddiqui and the Cambridge Families of Color Coalition. In an essay, which should be between 220 and 500 words, contestants are encouraged to explore the personal and societal significance of Juneteenth and provide some insight on what Juneteenth means to them, how it has shaped their understanding of freedom and equality, and its relevance in today's world. Contestants are encouraged to explore the themes of perseverance, cultural heritage, social justice, and the continuing fight against systemic racism. June 7 is the deadline to submit essays by email to: info@cambridgefamiliesofcolor.org.


                                                                                ###

Here are the week’s programs:


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.

Baby Lapsit (Main)
Monday, June 5
10-10:20 a.m. 
   
Just for you and your baby! Enjoy time with other parents, caregivers, and babies to learn, play, and develop language and motor skills. Recommended for 0-12 months. Come prepared to sit on the floor with your baby in your lap. This program can accommodate 15 babies and their caregivers. 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.

Housed in Cambridge: Drop-In Hours (Main)
Monday, June 5
5:30-8 p.m.

Do you have a question about housing? Do you want to learn more about affordable rental opportunities? Need help navigating financial assistance programs for housing? Looking for advice about housing rights? Join us in the Community Room at the Main Library for a one-on-one confidential appointment with a housing advocate.

Staff from the City Manager's Office of the Housing Liaison, the Housing Division of the Community Development Department, the Department of Human Service Programs Multi-Service Center, the Human Rights Commission, and the Social Work Staff of the Library will be on hand to answer your questions and provide information. Housed in Cambridge is a citywide campaign designed to educate and inform residents about housing opportunities and housing-related resources and services. Have questions? Contact Lucy at LFlamm@CambridgeMA.gov or at 617-349-4022.

Wellness for Seniors: Low-Impact Fitness (Virtual)
Monday, June 5
11-11:45 a.m.

This class is designed for people of all levels to strengthen the muscles, the heart, and the brain--all while having fun and moving to great music! Come as you are and take everything at your own pace. You will feel the benefits in mind and body! This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
Registration for each session is required.

Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main) 
Monday, June 5, 1-4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 6, 3-6 p.m.  
Wednesday, June 7, 6-8:30 p.m.  
    
During this time, anyone who has completed The Hive Safety Training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) can reserve The Hive’s equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able. Learn more.

LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, June 5
4-4:45 p.m. 
   
It’s a weekly block party! Bring friends to design and build amazing LEGO structures. Let your imagination run wild! The Children's Room has plenty of LEGO pieces, so you don’t need to bring your own. Be aware that LEGO pieces are choking hazards for young children, so this program is for children ages 5 and up and their caregivers. It can accommodate 30 builders. Children under age 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. This program starts promptly, and any unclaimed seats will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information. Learn more.

Neighborhood Birdwatching at Danehy Park (O'Neill)
Tuesday, June 6
9:30-10:30 a.m.

Please join us to observe birds at Danehy Park. As we explore the urban outdoors, we will discuss birdwatching tips, how to identify an unfamiliar bird, and learn a little bit more about the birds we share our outdoor spaces with. A limited supply of binoculars will be available. The walk will meet at the Sherman Street Playground near the park entrance at 99 Sherman Street. For more information, please call the O'Neill Branch at 617-349-4023. In the case of bad weather, this event will be moved to Tuesday, June 13, at 9:30 a.m. Registration is encouraged, but not required

ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Tuesday, June 6, and Thursday, June 8
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.  
Wednesday, June 7, and Friday, June 9
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.

Zing Laser Cutting 101 (Main) 
Tuesday, June 6
1-2:30 p.m. 
  
Learn how to use our Epilog Zing, an industry-standard laser cutting machine. Complete this workshop to earn a badge for the Zing laser cutter. With a badge, you can reserve the Zing to use on our equipment at designated times. Note: The Epilog Zing laser cutter and Glowforge laser cutter require separate trainings. You must participate in the Glowforge workshop to operate our Glowforge Pro laser cutter. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Creative Aging: Storytelling: Planting Seeds, Growing Community (Main)
Tuesday, June 6
2-4 p.m.  

This series of classes, A Garden of Stories, is community-based storytelling, in which older adults learn how to tell personal stories through sharing and connecting with their community. The eight-week course will occur every Tuesday, 2-4 p.m., through June 27 and will be held in person. Space is limited to 15 participants. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation. 

Sit ‘n’ Knit (Main)
Tuesday, June 6
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.      

Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Tuesday, June 6
3-4 p.m.

Read with a cuddly friend! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required by calling or visiting the O’Neill Branch (617-349-4023).
      
Teen Advisory Board Meeting (Main)
Tuesday, June 6
4-5 p.m.  

Teens! Help us plan teen programming at the Library! Earn community service hours! Enjoy free snacks! We meet monthly during the school year. Registration is not required. Stop by the Teen Room or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.

Felted Jewelry Workshop
Tuesday, June 6
6-7:30 p.m.

Learn to make wet felted jewelry in this beginner-friendly workshop! After learning about different types of wool and the processes involved in working with this cozy fiber, you will create a bangle bracelet and (depending on time and participant interest) a collection of felted beads using wool, hot water, soap, and embellishments. This workshop will give you the basic skills you need to continue pursuing this unique art form on your own! All materials are supplied. Contact Ingrid - inowak@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4019 if you have questions. Space is limited. Registration required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, June 6
6:30-7:30 p.m.  

Bring your project and enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters. Learn more.

Born in Cambridge: Open Archives 2023 (Main)
Tuesday, June 6
6:30-7:30 p.m.  

Visit the Library's Archives and Special Collections during this year's Open Archives:  Born in Cambridge. On view is Symbolism and Subversion: An Exhibition of Jennifer Regan's Stitched Narratives. Regan renegotiates traditional quilt-making themes through a feminist lens and finds the City of Cambridge as her inspiration. Examine the stitched narratives up close and explore Regan's personal papers, journals, and sketchbooks to discover the artistic process behind the 100 pieces she created while living in Cambridge. Registration is requiredLearn more about Cambridge's Open Archives 2023 and the participating institutions

3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main) 
Tuesday, June 6
6:30-8:30 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.

Wellness for Seniors: Tai Chi Paradigm - Level 2 (Main)
Wednesday, June 7
10-11 a.m. 

Join us in this 12-week Tai Chi Paradigm - Level 2 practice, which focuses on the mind-body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low-impact routine. Participants must have completed Tai Chi Paradigm - Level 1. Sifu Mynor Diaz has been learning and teaching Tai Chi for over 20 years. He has taught at five VA Boston Healthcare System locations and at senior centers. This event is held in person. Register here. This workshop is full.

Pride Flag Art Workshop for Children and Families (Valente)
Wednesday, June 7
1-2 p.m.

Join us after school gets out for this special Pride-themed Half-Day Hangout. Join the local artist and activist Noah Stang-Osborne in a creative workshop for children and families that uses storytelling and art to explore the meaning, history, and significance of the Pride flag. This program will take place in the Valente Community Room. For more information, contact the library at 617-349-4015.

Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square) 
Wednesday, June 7
1-3 p.m. 

Looking for assistance creating a résumé or finding a job? Join us for help with résumés, job hunting, and online applications. No registration is required. Learn more

Open Gameplay with One Up Games (O'Neill)
Wednesday, June 7
1:30-4:30 p.m.

Join us for our video game free play event hosted by the Massachusetts eSport and gaming venue One Up Games! Explore virtual worlds with the Oculus Quest or play the latest titles on XBOX Series S, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch! This is a drop-in event recommended for ages 7 and up.

Hoop Troop (Main)
Wednesday, June 7
3-4 p.m.  

A high-energy, fun-filled hooping workshop recommended for children ages 5 and up and their caregivers. Afterward, join us on the lawn for a visit from the ice cream truck!

Outdoor Gardening Fun (Boudreau)
Wednesday, June 7
3-3:45 p.m. 

Listen to stories, plant flowers for the Library, and grab seeds to take home! Children of all ages are welcome. The rain date will be Wednesday, June 14, at 3 p.m.

The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, June 7
3:30-5:30 p.m.  
    
Have you checked out The Hive yet? Teens are welcome to learn about our space and try their hand at making stickers, recording videos in our studio, and more. This is a drop-in event for ages 12-18.

One-on-One Tech Help by Appointment (Boudreau)
Wednesday, June 7
4-4:45 p.m.

Would you like help navigating the Library's e-resources, such as Libby or Hoopla? Or maybe you need some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Book a free one-on-one session. Some topics we cover are downloading Library eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines to your tablet, smartphone, or laptop; navigating databases and other resources such as LinkedIn Learning; using the Internet and e-mail; and setting up devices like smartphones or streaming devices. Scheduled sessions run between 30 and 45 minutes. Please bring your device, cords, and any necessary account information. Library staff cannot be held responsible for damage to patrons’ equipment. If you have questions, please send them to ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov. Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Read to a Dog (O'Connell)
Wednesday, June 7
4-5 p.m. 

Read with Bowie the Therapy Dog from Pets & People! Therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers of all ages. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required. Sign up by phone or in person at the O'Connell Branch (617-349-4019).

Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main) 
Wednesday, June 7
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. Just drop by! Please contact Megan Andres (mandres@cpsd.us) with any questions.

Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, June 7
5:30-8:30 p.m.

Continue building your machine-sewing skills and receive support as you work on your own projects with our Library sewing community. Participants must register but may drop in any time during the program. This program is designed for patrons who know how to use our Janome sewing machines. Registration is required.

Studio Recording 101 (Main) 
Thursday, June 8
10-11 a.m.  
Saturday, June 10
9:30-10:30 a.m.
  
Are you interested in podcasting, audio production, or video production? The Hive has two state-of-the-art recording studios! Join this workshop to become familiar with studio equipment and software. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering. Registration is required.

One-on-One Tech Help (Main)
Thursday, June 8
11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to learn how to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by the Main Library for our drop-in hours! Sessions will be limited to 30 minutes for each patron. A laptop will be available for use during the session. We can help you with:

  • accessing library eBooks, audiobooks, and other eResources on your devices
  •  e-mail and searching the Web
  •  smartphone and mobile app questions

 
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop In (O'Connell)
Thursday, June 8
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, cross stitch.

Puzzle Party: The Sequel (Main)
Thursday, June 8
2:30-3:30 p.m.

Join us for four additional weeks of Puzzle Party! Back by popular demand, the party will continue in the Learning Lab for four sessions in June. Come one, come all!

Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Thursday, June 8
3-4 p.m.

Read with a cuddly friend! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required by calling or visiting the O’Neill Branch (617-349-4023).

Read to a Dog (Boudreau)
Thursday, June 8
3-4 p.m.

Read with Ana the Therapy Dog! Therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers of all ages. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required. Sign up the day of the program by phone or in person at the Boudreau Branch (617-349-4017).

Afternoon Games (O’Neill)
Thursday, June 8
3-5 p.m.  

Join us to play your favorite board game or complete a puzzle! We are now offering outdoor games too, including hula hoops, cornhole, ring toss, and an assortment of sports balls. No registration is required. 

Fiber Arts Adventure with Lenni: A Machine-Sewing Workshop Series (Main)
Thursday, June 8
5:30-8:30 p.m. 

Continue building your machine-sewing skills and create bespoke crafts! Design your own fiber arts adventure as you make dinner napkins, high-visibility patches for being seen at night, and wearable Hive-made creations. This four-part series is led by the fiber artist and designer Lenni Armstrong!

The skills include identifying and straightening a fabric's grain, straight stitching, making hems, and more. Registration is required. Those registered for the first session will automatically be enrolled in the following weeks. Spots are very limited; kindly enroll only if you plan to attend all four workshops: May 18, May 25, June 1, and June 8. This workshop is designed for patrons who know how to use our Janome sewing machines. Register here.

Videography 101 (Main)
Friday, June 9
9:30-10:30 a.m.  

Step into The Hive's state-of-the-art recording studio and film a short video of yourself in front of our green screen. Then spend some time becoming familiar with video editing software while working with your footage. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering. Registration is required.

Wellness for Seniors: Introduction to Tai Chi Paradigm (Main) 
Friday, June 9
10-11 a.m. 

Join us in this 12-week Introduction to Tai Chi Paradigm practice, which focuses on the mind-body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low-impact routine. No previous experience is necessary. Sifu Mynor Diaz has been learning and teaching Tai Chi for more than 20 years. He has taught classes at five VA Boston Healthcare System locations and at senior centers. This event is held in person. Due to the popularity of this series, we expect participants to attend all the classes. Register here. This class is full. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.

Cambridge Young Authors' Squad (O'Neill)
Friday, June 9
4-5 p.m.
 
Youngsters aged 10-14 who love to write are welcome to share their ideas and writing. There will be time for share-outs/workshopping as well as group and solo writing. Snacks are provided! Registration is helpful but not required.

Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)  
Saturday, June 10
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.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 the vinyl cutter! You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering. Registration is required.

Concert: The Most Beautiful Moth in America (Central)
Saturday, June 10
12-1 p.m.

Join us in the Martin Luther King, Jr,. Plaza for a live concert with the Most Beautiful Moth in America, "a Boston-based indie rock band whose songs celebrate small victories and mundane sadness.”  All ages.

Family Pride Concert with Carrie Ferguson and the Grumpytime Club (O'Neill)
Saturday, June 10
1-2 p.m.

Carrie Ferguson and the Grumpytime Club present a family concert for Pride month, offering children and families welcoming and inclusive messages about accepting feelings, celebrating differences, and loving themselves exactly as they are.

Crafting Corner (O'Neill) 
Saturday, June 10
1:30-3 p.m. 

Fiber crafters of all skill levels are welcome to drop in for companionable crafting! Bring your project and enjoy tea, snacks, and conversation with other crafters. Chat, share tips, and even inspire others. No registration is required.

Sewing 101 (Main)   
Saturday, June 10
2:30-4 p.m.  

In this 90-minute class, you will learn the basics of sewing machine operation and safety. You will cover machine setup, basic functions, threading the machine, reloading the bobbin, sewing straight stitches, and recognizing when stitch tension has gone awry. Register here
This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Family Pride Concert with Carrie Ferguson and the Grumpytime Club (Valente)
Saturday, June 10
4-4:55 p.m.  

Carrie Ferguson and the Grumpytime Club present a family concert for Pride month, offering families welcoming and inclusive messages about accepting feelings, celebrating differences, and loving themselves exactly as they are. This program will take place in the Community Room. No registration is required. Please call the library at 617-349-4015 for more information.

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All the best!

  

Maria McCauley, Ph.D.  

Director of Libraries 

 

 

Page was posted on 6/4/2023 9:53 AM
Page was last modified on 7/25/2023 5:54 AM
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