If “Stranger Danger” is a Myth, Then What? (Main)
Most sexual violence is done by people we know. What can parents, teens, and community members do about it?
Meg Stone, author of The Cost of Fear, will offer practical, gender-inclusive strategies for learning safety skills important for resisting coercion, intimidation, and violence. Avoiding violence is about developing skills, not following rules. Women receive advice like "don't wear a ponytail" or "don't shop alone." These tips lack evidence and come from male authorities who avoid questions.
We will cover:
Demonstration: Learn practical safety gender-inclusive skills.
Resist Coercion: Skills to resist friends, those we know, or authority.
Empowerment: Feel powerful in stressful situations.
Community impact: Personal safety leads to social change.
Registration is required.
Live at the Library: Hip Hop Xpression (Valente)
Experience the joy of Hip Hop Xpression with Jarell Howard Rochelle in this fun, high-energy program for kids and teens. Participants will learn simple choreography, explore freestyle movement, and be introduced to authentic hip hop terminology and culture. This interactive class emphasizes connection, creativity, and self-expression, while celebrating the spirit of hip-hop.
No prior dance experience is needed — just come ready to move, laugh, and have fun together. Families and youth of all ages are welcome.
Funding for Vacation Week Programming: Live at the Library has been generously provided by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.
Live at the Library: Hip Hop Xpression will be this week's Wednesdays of Wonder offering.
Youth Tabletop Game Design Session 2/2 (Valente)
Create your very own one-page tabletop role playing game. In this two-session class, you will learn how to design your own game from scratch. We will cover themes, mechanics, and get started on making your idea a reality. No prior experience needed, all materials provided. Ages 10-14, registration required! (Registering for the first session includes the second session.)
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.
Turkey Mating Season
Turkeys are most active during mating season (March – May). Learn more about what you should know to minimize risks and to deter turkeys.
Contemporary Book Group (Main)
This month's book: The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard
Reading Interests: The group concentrates on fiction and narrative nonfiction. Some past selections include: Colored Television by Danzy Senna, Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters, and Beautiful Country: A Memoir by Qian Julie Wang.
How to get the print book: Copies of the print book are set aside at the Main Library. Visit the Main Library Q&A Desk at 449 Broadway during service hours and a staff member can help you check out a copy.
How to get the e-book or digital audiobook: This month’s book is available as an e-book and digital audiobook through OverDrive or the Libby app.
How to register: Click the registration link below to register. Registration is encouraged but not required.
For more information, contact Brita (bzitin@cambridgema.gov).
Flexible Parking Corridors
These changes are intended to reduce the impact of on-street parking removal as the City continues to build out bike and bus networks.