Summer Reading: A Library of Rare and Familiar Colors (Main)
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.
Time Out for Public Art Tactile Talks: Yerxa Road Underpass
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.
Kenneth Rogoff Presents: Our Dollar, Your Problem (Main)
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.
Teen Valentine Crafting & Friendship Bracelets (Valente)
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.
CPL Nature Club: The Nature of Cambridge (Central Square)
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.
CPL Nature Club: The Nature of Cambridge (Central Square)
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.
Time Out for Public Art Tour: Universal Design Playground
Join us for a guided 60-minute tour of the Universal Design Playground, an inclusive play area featuring public artworks designed with accessibility and sensory engagement in mind: Paintings by Dominic Killiany, Sensory Hilltop by Mitch Ryerson, and Pipe Dreams by NuVu Studio.
We will meet at the Universal Design Playground, 66 Field St. entrance.
This event is part of our Time Out for Public Art series in collaboration with Cambridge Arts. In October, these will be 60-minute art tours where we visit multiple sites as a group. Registration is required.
The Royal Rumpus (Valente)
Put on your best royal outfit and join us for a special afternoon! Listen to a story, decorate a crown and dance to some royal music!
This program is for children of all ages and their grown-ups.
Registration is required; register below. When registering, please include the total number of children who will be attending the program as your number of attendees.
Call the library at 617-349-4015 for more information.
Valente Branch Book Group (Valente)
Join the Valente Branch for their new book group! This group will meet monthly to discuss a mix of fiction and nonfiction books. The May selection will be Chemistry by Weike Wang.
How to get the print book: Copies of the book are available at the Valente Branch Library.
How to get the e-book and digital audiobook: This month’s book is available as an e-book and digital audiobook through https://minuteman.overdrive.com/.
No registration is required.
NoCA Art Reception & Reading (O'Neill)
Enjoy art, poetry, prose, and good company at the opening reception for the North Cambridge Arts (NoCA) exhibit at the O'Neill Branch Library. Refreshments will be served.
NoCa is an association of accomplished, professional visual and performing artists living and/or working in North Cambridge with a strong commitment to the neighborhood and community. NoCa includes painters, woodworkers, sculptors, photographers, jewelry makers, fabric artists, mixed-media artists, musicians, dancers, writers and poets.