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Curious about “forest bathing” (spoiler alert: no water required) and "rewilding" yourself? Come once or join every workshop in this 6-part series to explore the concept of "Shinrin-yoku" (“forest bathing”) which is the practice of being mindful and contemplative within nature, using all your senses. The experiential portion of the workshops will focus on our senses one at a time, workshop-by-workshop, through simple mindfulness exercises, gentle guided nature imagery, and other grounding activities that promote relaxation and (re-)connection with ourselves and with nature. No level of physical ability or prior experience with meditation or mindfulness is necessary — just an openness to relax and explore a new way of calming and connecting. Questions? Please email bquinlan@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4035.

Mass Audubon will lead an exploration around the library in search of plants and animals, while using scientific tools like binoculars and magnifying lenses to get a closer look. We'll record what we find in our nature journals and play nature games. All materials will be provided. No registration required. This program is recommended for children 4-8 and their caregivers. Hosted by Mass Audubon and the Cambridge Public Library.

Join us for a cozy afternoon reading together. Read your own books from home, or check out something new! The library will provide book ideas, comfy seating, and quiet music. Board books, coloring, and toys will be available for pre-reading children. (Stuffies and blankies are welcome!) For families with children of all ages.

Ed Popielarczyk is a professional magician, balloon twister and entertainer who has been entertaining children and family audiences for over 40 years. His magic show is a comedy show that uses a lot of audience participation. The kids are the stars of the show. This program is recommended for children of all ages and their caregivers. No registration required. Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation and Friends of the Cambridge Public Library.

Join Conservation Coordinator Alison Cariens for a closer look at pigments in the Harvard Art Museums' famed Forbes Pigment Collection. In this illustrated talk, Alison will discuss the history of the collection, the function of the materials within the conservation labs, and the significance of the collection as a “library of color.” Together, we will also delve into the story behind each featured pigment and discuss how each lends a unique window into the history of human creativity.

Join us for a guided 30-minute Tactile Talk featuring artist Randal Thurston’s transformation of a once-dark tunnel into a welcoming passageway with painted steel silhouettes and textured tilework. We will meet at the corner of Yerxa Road and Pemberton Street. This event is part of our Time Out for Public Art series in collaboration with Cambridge Arts. In September, these will be Tactile Talks, shorter visits perfect for all ages and abilities. Registration is required.

Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library welcome Kenneth Rogoff—Maurits C. Boas Professor at Harvard University and former chief economist at the IMF, long ranked among the top ten most cited economists—for a discussion of his new book Our Dollar, Your Problem: An Insider's View of Seven Turbulent Decades of Global Finance, and the Road Ahead. He will be joined in conversation by Gish Jen—acclaimed author of Thank You, Mr. Nixon. Registration is required.

Express your gratitude for special people in your life with handmade Valentines! Materials to create cards, friendship bracelets, and more will be available. No registration needed, ages 12-18. 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.

Mass Audubon will lead an exploration around the library in search of plants and animals, while using scientific tools like binoculars and magnifying lenses to get a closer look. We'll record what we find in our nature journals and play nature games. All materials will be provided. In the instance of bad weather, this program will take place in the Children's Room. No registration required. This program is recommended for children 4-8 and their caregivers. Hosted by Mass Audubon and the Cambridge Public Library.

Mass Audubon will lead an exploration around the library in search of plants and animals, while using scientific tools like binoculars and magnifying lenses to get a closer look. We'll record what we find in our nature journals and play nature games. All materials will be provided. In the instance of bad weather, this program will take place in the Children's Room. No registration required. This program is recommended for children 4-8 and their caregivers. Hosted by Mass Audubon and the Cambridge Public Library.