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We live in an age where we carry our smartphones everywhere we go. Built into this device is a camera that can help us document the world around us. Whether it’s taking family portraits, beautiful landscapes, or in some cases the meal we just sat down to eat, we’re all constantly taking photos. This class will not only teach you to take the best possible photos, but how to edit your photos to make them look as good as they possibly can. We will also cover how to organize the photos on your phone. We will learn how to become visual storytellers through projects I'll assign each week followed by thoughtful group discussions of your photos. You need only bring two things to this class: your smartphone and your imagination.

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 our friends from New England Botanic Garden to create an upcycled press for preserving leaves and petals. We will also learn about the lifecycle changes from flower to fruit, and dissect a tulip. Recommended for age 7 and up with a caregiver. Funding for Summer Reading has been generously provided by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Students will learn how to approach a human portrait drawing from start to finish.

Harvard Book Store and the Cambridge Public Library welcome Robert J. Sampson—Woodford L. and Ann A. Flowers University Professor at Harvard University, Affiliated Research Professor at the American Bar Foundation, and a member of the National Academy of Sciences—for a discussion of his new book Marked by Time: How Social Change Has Transformed Crime and the Life Trajectories of Young Americans. He will be joined in conversation by Robert D. Putnam—Malkin Research Professor of Public Policy, Emeritus at Harvard University and recipient of the National Humanities Medal by President Barack Obama. Registration is required.

In stressful times, collage can be a powerful practice for well-being and resilience. Join local artist Elena Stone to create collages in a relaxing, fun, and reflective community setting. We will use simple materials and a lightly structured process to promote creativity and connection. Materials will be provided but feel free to bring your own collage papers (e.g. old magazines, calendars, wrapping paper, etc.) to share. Registration is encouraged but not required.

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.

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.

Learn how to use your smartphone (iPhone or Android) to stay organized. You will learn how to use calendar apps, navigation apps like Google Maps and note-taking apps. This class will be delivered by a DOORS program instructor. To learn more about the DOORS program please go to: https://www.digitalpsych.org/doors-program.html To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass. Registration is encouraged, but not required.