Read to a Dog (O'Connell)
Read with Bowie the Therapy Dog from Pets & People! Therapy dogs provide warm and non-judgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers of all ages. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required and begins a week in advance. Sign up by phone or in person at the O'Connell Branch (617-349-4019).
Metabolic Approaches to Mental Illness: The Role of Ketogenic Therapies in the Treatment of Severe Mental Illness (Main)
Severe mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia have traditionally been understood through the lenses of neurotransmitters, psychology, and social stressors. Increasingly, however, research is revealing that metabolism—how the body and brain generate and use energy—plays a fundamental role in brain function and mental health.
This talk will explore the growing science linking metabolic dysfunction to psychiatric illness and introduce ketogenic therapies as a promising, evidence-informed approach for individuals with serious mental illness.
Drawing from clinical research and real-world experience, the presentation will examine how ketogenic interventions may influence brain energy metabolism, inflammation, and neural signaling—and how, for some people, these changes can reduce symptoms and even lead to remission and recovery for people with treatment-resistant SMI.
The goal of this talk is to provide education, context, and hope, while emphasizing that ketogenic therapies should be approached thoughtfully, safely, and in collaboration with qualified healthcare professionals.
New to Medicare (Central Square)
New to Medicare is a workshop presented by a Minuteman Senior Services state-certified Medicare benefits counselor. This program is aimed at people who are turning 65 or leaving an employer group health plan due to retirement. Topics include Medicare benefits and coverage gaps, when to apply for Medicare, how to apply for Medicare, health insurance plans that work with Medicare, understanding premiums, deductibles and maximum out of pocket costs, and choosing the right supplement plan. It also covers special considerations and the consequences of not enrolling at the right time.
This workshop will be led by Marion Severynse, a Cambridge resident and certified Medicare benefits counselor. Marion volunteers for Minuteman Senior Services SHINE program helping people with their Medicare related questions.
This is a free service funded, in part, by the Administration for Community Living.
Light lunch provided. Please call 617-349-4014 with any dietary restrictions by September 10. Registration helpful.
(CANCELED) Read to a Dog (Valente)
Read to Dante, our local cuddly therapy dog! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and non-judgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 15-minute time slot is required and begins on Wednesday, December 10 by calling or visiting the Valente Branch (617-349-4015).
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
[CANCELLED] Read to a Dog (Valente)
Read to Dante, our local cuddly therapy dog! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and non-judgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 15-minute time slot is required and begins on Wednesday, April 29 by calling or visiting the Valente Branch (617-349-4015).
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
Rise Up Cambridge Gives Relief to Families
Through Rise Up, Cambridge became the first city in the nation to introduce a non-lottery program to provide direct cash assistance to all eligible families. Ultimately, the City was focused helping families with children to meet their basic needs.