Official websites use .gov
A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A
lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
Dear Patrons,
The Library and Harvard Book Store will welcome Joyce Carol Oates—the award-winning andNew York Times bestselling author of We Were the Mulvaneys, Blonde, and The Falls—for a discussion of her new novel, Butcher. She will be talking with Daphne Kalotay, the award-winning author of Russian Winter, The Archivists, and Calamity and Other Stories.Registration is required.
On Saturday, July 20, the Library will host a Gatsby community workshop in collaboration with the American Repertory Theater. Inspired by A.R.T.’s production of Gatsby, these workshops use theater as a framework to explore themes of belonging, aspirations for the future, and what the American Dream means today, and activate our Essential Question: How can we build a new world that is in conversation with those that came before? Registration is required to participate in this program.
Join us at Joan Lorentz Park on Wednesday, July 17 at 6 p.m. for a Park Sounds performance by Aldra. This performance was originally scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 13 but was postponed due to the weather. ALDRA is a performing and recording artist from Somerville whose music has been influenced by soul, R&B, and alternative pop. ALDRA captivates listeners with velvety tones, profound lyrics, and imagery to take them on a journey through her life experiences. In memory of Janet Axelrod.
On Saturday, July 20, from 1-3 p.m., join photographer and artist Edie Bresler for a fun hands-on workshop on cyanotype, a method of photography that uses the sun to develop prints! Participants will learn all about the process and techniques used in this method and create their own small cyanotype print with natural objects. Learn more about the artist and register.
+++
The Library is pleased to offer the following programs during the week that begins on July 14.
Weekly Activities for Kids
This week, these programs will be offered at our Boudreau, Central Square, Collins, Main, O’Connell, O’Neill, and Valente locations.
Book Groups
Learn more about our Book Groups.
STEAM Academy: Innovators for Purpose Summer Studio (Main)
Monday through Friday
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Studio is a youth-powered design and innovation program where young creatives channel their energy and vision to imagine and build a better world. Blending art, design, science, technology, and storytelling within a social justice framework, iFp creatives engage in real-world client-sponsored projects.
Baby Lapsit (Main)
Monday, July 15
10-10:20 a.m.
Just for you and your baby! Enjoy time with other parents and caregivers to help babies learn, play, and develop language and motor skills. Recommended for 0-12 months. Come prepared to sit on the floor with your baby in your lap. This program can accommodate 15 babies and their caregivers. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. The entire party must be present to receive a ticket. This program starts promptly. Unclaimed seats will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.
ESOL Classes (Central Square)
Monday, July 15, Tuesday, July 16, and Thursday, July 18
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, July 17, and Friday, July 19
10:30 a.m.-Noon
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes occur every weekday. On Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays, High Beginner ESOL is at 10:30 a.m. Beginner ESOL is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1 p.m. Intermediate ESOL is on Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m., Advanced ESOL is on Tuesday, and Thursday at 3 p.m.
Summer Reading: 3D Doodling (O'Connell)
Tuesday, July 16
2-3:30 p.m.
Use one of our 3D Doodler pens to create anything your mind can dream up! For ages 5 and up. Kids under 7 must be accompanied by a grown-up. No registration is required.
Sewing 101 (Main)
Monday, July 15, 3-4:40 p.m.
Tuesday, July 16, 1:30-3 p.m.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of sewing machine operation and safety. This session will cover machine setup, basic functions, threading the machine, reloading the bobbin, sewing straight stitches, and recognizing when stitch tension has gone awry. We’ll also cover some safety best practices when operating a sewing machine. As we learn together, we’ll work on a simple project—a drawstring bag—which most students will be able to complete by the end of the class. Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, July 15
4-4:45 p.m.
It’s a weekly block party! Bring friends to design and build amazing LEGO structures. Let your imagination run wild! The Children's Room has plenty of LEGO pieces, so you don’t need to bring your own. Be aware that LEGO pieces are choking hazards for young children, so this program is for children ages 5+ and their caregivers. It can accommodate 30 builders. Children under age 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. This program starts promptly, and any unclaimed seats will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.
Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, July 15
5-6 p.m.
Come join us for a chess challenge. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate. Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer. This is not an instructional class but a gathering of individuals who want to test their skills against other members of the community. There's no need to register in advance - simply drop by and challenge yourself to improve your mastery of this classic game! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 617-349-4017 or via e-mail: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov or mmcglathery@cambridgema.gov
Summer Art Tour: Gallery 344 at Cambridge City Hall Annex
Monday, July 15
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Join Cambridge Arts and the Library for a guided tour of the Gallery 344 exhibition Rust Happen(s): Caring for the Public Art Collection and Town Green, Mike Glier's mural site in the City Hall Annex. More information about the gallery and the Cambridge Arts Council can be found here: https://www.cambridgema.gov/arts/publicart/gallery344 We will meet outside the City Hall Annex building at 344 Broadway. This event is part of the Library's Summer Art Walks series.
Summer Reading: Bilingual Storytime (O'Connell)
Tuesday, July 16
2-3 p.m.
Esther Gomez and Karina Liendo present "The Song of Chirimia," a Guatemalan folktale about a young man who tries to win the hand of a Mayan princess by making his song as sweet as that of the birds. This bilingual storytime will be presented in Spanish and English and include arts and crafts for registered attendees. This program is recommended for children older than 5 years and their caregivers. Registration is recommended.
Tuesday Teen Room Hangouts (Main)
Tuesday, July 16
2-5 p.m.
Drop into the Teen Room any Tuesday afternoon this summer and enjoy a variety of FREE activities, from board games to video games, 3D pens, paper crafts, anime, and more. Or just sit down with a great book from our shelves. No registration is required.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, July 16
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters as you work, get inspired, pick up skills, and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, and mend. Refreshments will be provided.
ESOL Conversation Class (Valente)
Tuesday, July 16
2:30-4 p.m.
Join us for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)! This class will be taught at a beginner level. No testing is needed, and everyone is welcome. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Online Meeting Basics (Main)
Tuesday, July 16
3-4 p.m.
From online classes to connecting with loved ones, videoconferencing is a great tool. We will cover the basics of Zoom and similar platforms, and make sure you are prepared to join a meeting or start one of your own! To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, July 16, 4-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 18, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, July 19, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 20, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
During this period, anyone who has completed The Hive Safety Training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) canreserve equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able.
Drop-in Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, July 16
4-6 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want help using an online resource? Need someone to read your resume and support navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in help hours. No registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov.
Summer Reading: Mass Capoeira (Valente)
Tuesday, July 16
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Mass Capoeira's performance will uplift the spirit and expose audiences to the magic of Afro-Brazilian art and culture. This program is recommended for children of all ages and their caregivers. No registration is required.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, July 16
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters. For more information contact us at library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4032 (voice), or via relay at 711.
Summer Reading: Family STEAM Night (O'Neill)
Tuesday, July 16
6:30-7:15 p.m.
Families with elementary school age children join us for hands-on activities focused on Science, Technology, Arts, Engineering, and Math. Adults and children will learn and play together! This month we will be making rain gauges. This activity is part of the CPL Nature Club!
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-In (O'Connell)
Wednesday, July 17
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters. Drop in with this informal group to work on your craft, get inspired, pick up skills. and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, mend, cross stitch, and more. All crafts are welcome!
English Conversation Practice, Intermediate (O'Neill)
Wednesday, July 17
1-2:30 p.m.
Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Conversation Practice. This group is for those with an intermediate or high level of English language skill. No testing is required. For more information on other ESOL classes, please call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, July 17
1-3 p.m.
Looking for help creating a résumé or finding a job? Join us for assistance with job hunting and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
Summer Reading: Dungeons & Dragons 101 (Valente)
Wednesday, July 17
2-4:30 p.m.
Calling young adventurers! Ever wanted to learn how to play Dungeons and Dragons? Now's your chance! Patrons aged 9 to 13 can join us for an introductory session to arm them with all the basic rules of the game. Dice, character sheets, and everything else you need will be provided! Registration is not required, but this program does require that participants arrive promptly at the starting time.
Wednesdays of Wonder – WOW (O'Neill)
Wednesday, July 17
1:30-4:30 p.m.
Come to the Library for games and a different activity each week! Kids of all ages can hang out and do crafts or STEAM activities. This week we will use collage to make suncatchers (colorful window decorations) using tissue paper and washable glue. No registration is required.
Summer Reading: Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Wednesday, July 17
3-4 p.m.
Read with a cuddly friend! Trained therapy dogs provide warm and nonjudgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers up to age 14. Registration for each 10-minute time slot is required by calling or visiting the O’Neill Branch
Summer Reading: Rockabye Beats (Boudreau)
Wednesday, July 17
3-4 p.m.
Come join Rockabye Beats for an interactive, musical program! We'll sing, play, explore instruments, dance, pretend, learn a little Spanish, and show off our goofy side. For children of all ages and their caregivers. No registration is required
3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Wednesday, July 17
3:30-5 p.m.
Learn how to create your favorite game piece in digital space and print it out using our Sindoh 3D printers. In this workshop, you will get experience running the 3D printer, gain fundamental 3D modeling skills using Tinkercad, and earn your 3D Printing badge for future reservations in The Hive. Before taking this workshop, you will need to complete The Hive Safety Training and create a free Tinkercad account at www.tinkercad.com. Parents may need to assist users under the age of 18 to create an account.Register here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Glowforge 101: Creative Laser Cutting (Main)
Wednesday, July 17
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Learn how to cut, engrave, and shape designs from a variety of materials using the Glowforge Pro laser cutter in this workshop. This two-hour workshop replaces the previous two-part Glowforge 101 offering; the content and length of this workshop and the two-part series are the same. You will start by using the camera on the Glowforge to focus and scan your own custom images, properly select materials for your project, and fabricate your first design. You will create digital artwork for the Glowforge, and learn file formatting for production. Note: This is a badging course for laser cutting. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this program. View The Hive's workshop schedule here. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Summer Reading: Crocodile River Music (Main)
Thursday, July 18
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
African rhythms, history, and culture merge into an afternoon of movement, cultural exploration, and joy. Crocodile River Music’s mission is to connect audiences with African artists and cultures through performance and education. With artists from Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and the U.S., they are committed to presenting African art, music, and culture to audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and capabilities. This program is recommended for children of all ages and their families. No registration is required.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main, by appointment)
Thursday, July 18
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by for our drop-in hours! These sessions will be limited to 30 minutes for each patron.
We can help you with:
We are not able to help you with:
If you have any questions, please contact gjosette@cambridgema.gov.
Teen Book Discussion: The Faint of Heart (Main)
Thursday, July 18
1-2 p.m.
Join others to discuss the CRLS One School One Story summer reading book, The Faint of Heart by Kerilynn Wilson. Get your free copy at the Main Library Teen Room. No registration is required. Pizza will be provided. Call 617-349-4027 for more information.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, July 18
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation on a Thursday afternoon.
The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)
Thursday, July 18
2:30-3 p.m.
In this workshop, you will learn about our makerspace, how to use our resources, and how to keep safe in The Hive. Registration is required. The Zoom link will be sent out an hour before the workshop starts. Before taking workshops in The Hive in person, all makers must bring signed copies of The Hive User Agreement and Waivers.
Summer Reading: Mermaid Story Time (O'Connell)
Thursday, July 18
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Celebrate Mermaid Diversity Day with stories and songs! Merpeople of all sizes, colors, and genders are welcome, but if under 7 must be accompanied by a grown-up. Tails start at 3:30! No registration is required. Please call 617-349-4019 for details.
Joyce Carol Oates in conversation with Daphne Kalotay (Main)
Thursday, July 18
6-7:30 p.m.
The Library and Harvard Book Store welcome Joyce Carol Oates—the award-winning andNew York Times bestselling author of We Were the Mulvaneys, Blonde, and The Falls—for a discussion of her new novel, Butcher. She will be talking with Daphne Kalotay, the award-winning author of Russian Winter, The Archivists, and Calamity and Other Stories. Registration is required.
Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)
Thursday, July 19
7-8 p.m.
Bring your project and join other fiber crafters in your community! Crochet, sew, embroider, knit, cross stitch, spin, mend, and more at this informal drop-in fiber arts circle. All crafts are welcome!
Summer Reading: The Poop Museum (O'Neill)
Friday, July 19
2-3 p.m.
The Poop Museum is the place to come if you’re curious and have questions about poop! Susie Maguire at the Poop Museum is a poop expert who thinks poop is THE most interesting subject in the world. She has studied poop for years and loves nothing more than sharing her extensive knowledge of poop. Just a few of the poopers you will meet include:
Recommended for children ages 5-10 and their caregivers. No registration is required. This presentation is part of the CPL Nature Club!
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Saturday, July 20
9:30-10:30 a.m.
Would you like to make your own vinyl signs, stickers, or images to transfer to T-shirts and other textiles? In this workshop, you can learn how to use our Roland Camm-1 GS-24 vinyl cutter. You can then design a sticker and cut it with our vinyl cutter! Registration is required. You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
Gatsby Community Workshop (Main)
Saturday, July 20
12-2 p.m.
Inspired by A.R.T.’s production of Gatsby, these workshops use theater as a framework to explore themes of belonging, aspirations for the future, and what the American Dream means today, and activate our Essential Question: How can we build a new world that is in conversation with those that came before? Registration is required to participate in this program.
Summer Cyanotype Workshop (Main)
Saturday, July 20
1-3 p.m.
Join the photographer and artist Edie Bresler for a fun hands-on workshop on cyanotype, a method of photography that uses the sun to develop prints! Participants will learn all about the process and techniques used in this method and create their own small cyanotype print with natural objects.
This event will take place outside the Main Library in Joan Lorentz Park, in the shade and in direct sunlight. Please plan accordingly.
Note: If rain or heavy clouds affectour ability to make prints outside, we will offer this workshop inside in the Community Roomwith artificial light sources.Learn more about the artist and register.
Summer Reading: Nintendo Switch Party for Ages 11-14 (Valente)
Saturday, July 20
2-4 p.m.
Join our Nintendo Switch party! We will be using library consoles to enjoy multiplayer games for ages 11-14. This program can accommodate 16 gamers. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on the day of the program. The gamer must be present to receive a ticket. This program starts promptly, and any unclaimed spots will be offered to someone waiting. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 617-349-4015 for further details.
Summer Reading: Tie Dye Workshop (O'Neill)
Saturday, July 20
2-3:30 p.m.
Join us and make your own tie-dye T-shirt! The Library will provide white T-shirts and kerchiefs. If supplies permit, you are welcome to bring other clean cotton items to dye (light colors work best). For children ages 5 and up with a caregiver. Registration is required. Please register each individual who will be participating. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 617-349-4023 or via e-mail at sjoycefarley@cambridgema.gov.
Stay Connected
Please subscribe to our email list, follow us on X, Instagram, or Facebook, and visit our website.
All the best!
Maria McCauley, Ph.D.
Director of Libraries
###
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
As a governmental entity, the Massachusetts Public Records Law applies to records made or received by the City. Any information received through use of this site is subject to the same provisions as information provided on paper.
Read our complete privacy statement
Enter a service request via SeeClickFix for things like missed trash pickups, potholes, etc., click here
