Search

Discover how AI can make creative work more fun and accessible. Learn simple tools for writing, audio and video editing, graphic design, and social media — even if you’ve never created content before. Do you have any accessibility or language support needs? Please submit this form and we’ll do our best to meet your needs. This hybrid event will take place in-person in the Learning Lab at the Main Library and on Zoom. The Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants one hour before the event's start time. Led by The Hope Group, an award-winning Boston-based AI education team, in collaboration with the Cambridge Public Library.

Take a break from your studies and join us for lunch! Free pizza will be provided while supplies last and you will have the chance to share your ideas for future events at O’Connell. If you have any dietary restrictions, please call the branch by May 13th, 2025 at (617) 349-4019. This is a drop-in event designed for patrons ages 12-18. No registration required.

What better way to learn about wildlife than by observing them in person? Meet local wildlife ambassadors and discover the amazing adaptations that help them survive in the wild. Ask questions and learn what you can do to protect the wildlife of Cambridge. For children of all ages and their caregivers. 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 us for stories and a craft to celebrate the shortest day of the year. Come read, sing, craft and welcome back the light!

Back by popular demand! Explore the art of botanical collage. In this workshop, participants work with a variety of plant-inspired imagery—think leaves, flowers, stems, and natural textures—to create their own unique composition. Whether you prefer something delicate and minimal or bold and layered, this is a chance to experiment, play, and let your creativity unfold. No prior experience is needed—this workshop is designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners. A selection of materials will be provided, so you can simply show up and start creating. That said, students are more than welcome to bring your own papers, clippings, pressed plants, or anything else that inspires you. Registration is required.

Learn the basics of beaded jewelry making and the difference between semi-precious stones and precious stones. Participants will keep all pieces they make. Space is limited to 10 participants. Led by Zangar Freeman.

Join the Collins Branch Library in collaboration with the Cambridge Climate Leaders Initiative for a monthly discussion of a climate-related topic. Each month the group will discuss a book on the topic at hand then hear about a related local program or initiative and how you can take action. Topic: Heatwaves & Hard Truths Book: The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and death on a scorched planet by Jeff Goodell Meetings will be held on the fourthThursday of each month from 6-7:30 p.m. Copies of the book will be available at the Collins Branch during library hours. Registration is encouraged, but not required. For more information contact Jo at jpercell@cambridgema.gov.

Celebrate the start of summer at a neighborhood bash for all ages! Join us for: Outdoor activities (bubbles, sidewalk chalk, etc.) Face painting by Color Me Funky Mini blossom kits to decorate and plant seeds Refreshments Sign up for summer reading bingo In the event of inclement weather, all activities will move indoors.

Introducing the Reel Reads Book Group! Each month we read a book selection with a movie adaptation and discuss the relationship between the two and the merits and/or drawbacks of each. July selection: The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean & Adaptation (film) How to get the print book: Copies of the book are set aside at the O'Connell Branch. Click here for O'Connell Branch Hours This month’s book and movie may also be available digitally through Libby, Hoopla or Kanopy. This book group meets every other month, in person at the O'Connell Branch. Registration is helpful! For more information contact the branch at 617-349-4019.

Celebrate Pride and the beauty of self-expression through color and craft! In in this inclusive, hands-on workshop led by local fiber artist Alex Makes Art, we'll come together as a community to design a rainbow spectrum of felted Pride banners; wearable or hangable pendants created through the vibrant technique of felt painting. Using beautifully dyed wool in a range of hues, you'll learn how to blend colors, add texture, and craft a soft, powerful symbol of identity, allyship, and joy. No experience is necessary - just bring your creativity and pride! This is a welcoming space for all ages, all identities, and all expressions. Let's make something meaningful together with Alex Makes Art at the heart of the experience. Free & open to everyone. All materials provided. Registration required.