Director's Update, October 1, 2023

Dear Patrons,

It was a pleasure to represent the Cambridge Public Library as a delegate during the inauguration of Dr. Claudine Gay as president of Harvard University on September 29. Dr. Gay is the second woman and the first Black person to lead the nation’s oldest university. We salute her on this milestone and wish her the best as she takes on this important, demanding task.

Did you know this week is Banned Books Week? From October 1 through 7, we’re celebrating the freedom to read. Check out our banned books display at the Main Library or participate in a statewide Read-In at Central Square on October 5.  

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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.   

Guided Tour of NeuraFutures Installation (Main)
Sunday, October 1
9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Building on Braini's 15 years of experience in designing and creating the most cutting edge interaction – fusion between the brain and computer, brain-computer interface – during the guided tour of the NeuraFutures installation, they will touch on the following questions: is it possible to implant memories? read your dreams while you sleep? communicate a thought between two different people throughout the continents. To learn more about this project, please visit: https://www.neurafutures.com. This event is part of Cambridge Science Festival, a celebration showcasing the leading edge in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). A multifaceted, multicultural event, the festival makes science accessible, interactive, and fun, highlighting the impact of STEAM in all our lives.
  
Baby Lapsit (Main)   
Monday, October 2
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.   

Mouse and Keyboard (Main) 
Tuesday, October 2
10-10:30 a.m. 
 
Get started with the basics of mouse and keyboard. Learn how to click, move the mouse, and use the keyboard. We will have laptops and mice prepared for the class. Registration is required. 
 
E-mail Tips and Tricks (Main)
Tuesday, October 2
11 a.m-Noon

Get more practice! Learn tips and tricks on how to use Gmail (Google e-mail). A Gmail account is required for this class. Please remember your password! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.

Puzzle Party (Main)
Monday, October 2
2:30-3:30 p.m.

Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. An hour of fun and conversation on a Monday afternoon.

Serger 101 (Main)
Monday, October 2
3-4:30 p.m.

Are you an intermediate or advanced sewer? This workshop 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. This workshop is designed for patrons who know how to use a sewing machine. If you are new to machine sewing, we recommend you take our Sewing 101 workshop first. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.  

LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, October 2
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.  

Free Drop-In Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Monday, October 2
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 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to 6p.m. Please contact us with any questions at 617-349-4027 (voice) or via relay at 711.

50 Years of Ms. Magazine (Main)
Monday, October 2
6-7:30 p.m.

Harvard Book Store celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of Ms. Magazine with a discussion of the book 50 Years of Ms.: The Best of the Pathfinding Magazine That Ignited a Revolution. The event will feature a special panel of Ms. contributors, including Carrie Baker and Aziza Ahmed, advocates Diane Rosenfeld and Naitasia Hensey, and actor and activist Ashley Judd. Cosponsored by the Library. Registration is required.

ESOL Class (Valente)  
Monday, October 2
6-7 p.m. 
 
Join us for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)! This class will be taught at a beginner level. No testing is needed. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.   

ESOL Classes (Central Square)  
Tuesday, October 3, and Thursday, October 5 
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m. 
Wednesday, October 4, and Friday, October 6
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.  

3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main) 
Tuesday, October 3
1-2:30 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.

Sit 'n' Knit (Main) 
Tuesday, October 3
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.   

Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, October 3, 3:30-8:30 p.m.  
Thursday, October 5, 4:30-8:30 p.m. 
Saturday, October 7, 11 a.m.-4:30 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.   

Bike Lights: Bike Visibility Workshop (Main)
Tuesday, October 3
5:30-8:30 p.m.

Bring in your bike for recommendations on how to increase visibility from our cycling and safety enthusiasts Lenni Armstrong and Michael Beach. Select parts, materials, and bike light kits will be available to add to your bike with assistance from the instructors. Make reflective and fluorescent accessories for your bike and LED lights to illuminate your wheels or frame. Links to information and recommended products will be shared with participants. Registration is required.

One-on-One Tech Help (Central Square)   
Tuesday, October 3
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
             
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by during 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

We are not able to help you with:    

• installing advanced software programs
•  completing online transactions
• computer hardware and technical maintenance

If you have any questions, please contact syasuda@cambridgema.gov.     

Leanna Renee Hieber Presents: A Haunted History of Invisible Women: True Stories of America's Ghosts (Main)
Tuesday, October 3
6-7:30 p.m.

We kick off the ghostliest month of the year with a presentation by Leanna Renee Hieber about her book A Haunted History of Invisible Women: True Stories of America's Ghosts. Registration is not required.

Kids' Books for Everyone (O'Neill)
Tuesday, October 3
6:30-7:30 p.m.

People of all ages who enjoy children's books can read and discuss together. In October we will read Front Desk by Kelly Yang, then meet for refreshments and discussion. Copies of the book are available at the O'Neill Branch. This month's book has been selected in honor of Banned Books Week, an annual event celebrating the freedom to read.

Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, October 3
6:30-7:30 p.m.

Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.

Google Sheets Basics (Main)
Wednesday, October 4
10-11 a.m.

Learn how to use Google Sheets, Google's version of Excel! You will learn how to create a sheet and enter data in a friendly, learning environment. A Gmail account is required for this class; please remember your password! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.

Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, October 4
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, and cross stitch.   

Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square) 

Wednesday, October 4
1-3 p.m.

Looking for assistance creating a résumé or looking for jobs? Join us for assistance with résumés, job hunting, and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013

Sewing 101 (Main)
Wednesday, October 4
1-2:30 p.m. 

In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of sewing machine operation and safety. We 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 with 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. https://cambridgepl.libcal.com/event/11112116 Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.  

Wednesdays of Wonder – WOW! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, October 4
3-4:30 p.m.

Come to the Library for games and a different activity each week! Kids of all ages can hang out and do crafts or STEAM activities. No registration is required. On October 4, we'll be celebrating Banned Books Week, an annual event celebrating the freedom to read!

Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, October 4
3:30-5 p.m.

Have you checked out The Hive yet? Teens are welcome to come learn about our space and try their hand at sticker making, video recording in our studio, and more. This is a drop-in event designed for patrons ages 12-18.

Free Drop-In Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, October 4
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 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. Just drop by! Please contact 617-349-4027 with any questions.

Sewing Circle (Main) 
Wednesday, October 4
5:30-8:30 p.m.  
  
Continue building your machine-sewing skills and receive support as you work on your own projects. Participants must register but may drop in anytime during the program. This program is designed for patrons who know the basics of how to use our Janome sewing machines. Registration is required.  

Cambridge Cooks: The Basics of Cream-based Soups (Main)
Wednesday, October 4
6-7 p.m.

What are you going to do with all those fresh veggies from the farmer's market? You could eat them raw, but what about making a delicious, hearty vegetable soup?

Chef Anthony Haley teaches us how to make the most of our fall vegetables by turning them into a cream-based soup. This live cooking demonstration will be followed by a free tasting and Q&A with the chef. Chef Anthony Haley is a Boston native who obtained his associate degree in culinary arts from Johnson and Wales University, Providence, in 2008. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s in Culinary Nutrition in 2010. After working in Research and Development for Heinz North America in Pittsburgh, Pa., Anthony returned home to Boston. He spent many years working for Legal Sea Foods, primarily training and opening new locations. In 2015, he opened Antonio’s Bacaro, a Venetian wine bar and restaurant in Hyde Park, where he was the executive ehef. Anthony competed on the hit show Blind Kitchen in 2022 and has appeared on CBS Boston for several cooking segments. He is now teaching professional and recreational classes at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts. Registration is required.

Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Thursday, October 5
10-11 a.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 our vinyl cutter! Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.

One-on-One Tech Help  (Main; by appointment)
Thursday, October 5
11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by during 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

We are not able to help you with:     

• installing advanced software programs
•  completing online transactions
• computer hardware and technical maintenance

If you have any questions, please contact syasuda@cambridgema.gov.

Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main) 
Thursday, October 5
2-4 p.m.

Learn how to cut, engrave, and shape designs from a variety of materials using the Glowforge Pro laser cutter. This two-hour workshop replaces the previous two-part Glowforge 101 offering; the content and length of this workshop and the two-part series are the same. You will start by using the camera on the Glowforge to focus and scan your own images, properly select materials for your project, and fabricate your first design. You will create digital artwork for the Glowforge and learn file formatting for production. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. Note: This is a badging course for laser cutting. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this program. View The Hive's workshop schedule here. 

Library Read-In (Central Square)
Thursday, October 5
2-4 p.m.

Celebrate the freedom to read at the Central Square Library! Join us from 4 to 6 p.m. on the ground floor as we participate in a statewide read-in in honor of Banned Books Week. We will have plenty of books available to read, or you can bring your own favorite! Refreshments will be provided. All ages are welcome. Contact Abby at aclinger@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4010 for more information.

XR Lab 101 (Main) 
Thursday, October 5
7-8 p.m.
   
Extended reality (XR) opens the door to worlds and experiences outside the everyday through virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality equipment. Test drive our Microsoft HoloLens augmented reality glasses, Structure Sensor 3D scanner, Merge headsets, and more. Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available. 

Drop-in Project (Valente)
Friday, October 6
10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Drop by to work on a project. Each week we will have a different activity. Please call 617-349-4015 if you have any questions.

The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Saturday, October 7
9:30-10:30 a.m.

In this workshop, you will learn about our makerspace, how to use our resources, and how to keep safe in The Hive. Registration is required. The Zoom link will be sent out an hour before the workshop starts. Before taking workshops in The Hive, all makers must bring signed copies of The Hive User Agreement and Waivers. 

Dancing Outdoors at the CPL: African and Caribbean Dance Fitness with Sylver Rochelin (Main)
Saturday, October 7
10-11 a.m.

Come celebrate African and Caribbean dance and culture under the open skies! We will work up a sweat as we join in dance to both traditional and modern choreography from energizing music from Africa and the Caribbean.

Crafting Corner (O'Neill)
Saturday, October 7
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 and snacks as you chat, share tips, and even inspire others. No registration is required.  

Stay Connected  
  
Please subscribe to our e-mail list, follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or Facebook, and visit our website.  
  
All the best,  
  
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.            
Director of Libraries 

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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.