Director's Update, June 9, 2024
6/7/2024 • 3 weeks ago
Dear Patrons,
Get ready for a summer celebration of freedom and resilience with Juneteenth Unlimited at the O’Neill Branch on Tuesday, June 11, from 3 to 4 p.m.! In this interactive workshop presented by Wee the People Boston, we'll explore the story of Juneteenth, the oldest commemoration of the outlawing of slavery in the United States. Through stories, crafts, and a Jubilee teach-in, we'll honor the joy and radical resistance of Black Americans then and now. Designed for ages 6 and older accompanied by an adult. No registration is required.
Join us at Joan Lorentz Park today, from 2-4 p.m. to celebrate Loving Day Cambridge, an event commemorating the 1967 Supreme Court decision that interracial marriages could not be banned by any state. The event will include music, refreshments, games, and activities for adults and children. This program is free. Presented by Cambridge Citizens Committee on Civic Unity, the Cambridge Peace Commission, and the Cambridge Public Library.
On Tuesday, June 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., the Library and Harvard Book Store welcome Robert Pinsky—Poet Laureate of the United States from 1997 to 2000, author of At the Foundling Hospital, The Figured Wheel, and The Want Bone, and professor in the graduate creative writing program at Boston University—for a discussion of his new poetry collection, Proverbs of Limbo. Registration is required.
Join us on Saturday, June 15, from 1 to 3 p.m., for the second session of Park Sounds for summer 2024 with the Squeezebox Stompers, a Boston-area Americana Roots band. The Squeezebox Stompers have been performing Cajun, Zydeco, Blues, Folk, and originals all over New England for the past 20 years. They are noted for their -lively, upbeat music inspiring audiences to get up and dance.
+++
Activities for Kids
This week, these programs will be offered at our Boudreau, Central Square, Collins, Main, O’Connell, O’Neill, and Valente locations.
Sing-Alongs
Story Times
Book Groups
Learn more about our Book Groups.
Baby Lapsit (Main)
Monday, June 10
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, June 10, Tuesday, June 11, and Thursday, June 14
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 12, and Friday, June 15
10:30 a.m.-Noon
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes occur every weekday. On Mondays, High Beginner ESOL is from 10:30 a.m.to noon and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Intermediate ESOL is at 11 a.m., High Beginner ESOL is at 1 p.m., and Advanced ESOL is at 3 p.m. Beginner ESOL is at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Registration is not required.
Wellness for Seniors: Introduction to Tai Chi Paradigm (Main)
Monday, June 10
10:30-11:30 a.m.
Join us in this 4-week Introduction to Tai Chi Paradigm practice, which focuses on the mind and body connection. Tai Chi is a fluid sequence of movements choreographed in a low-impact routine. No previous experience is necessary.
Sifu Mynor Diaz has been learning and teaching Tai Chi classes for over 20 years. He has taught classes at five VA Boston Healthcare System locations and at Senior Centers. Due to the popularity of this series, we expect participants to attend all the classes. Registration is required. This event is held in person. Priority will be given to individuals who have not previously attended a Tai Chi class.
Wellness for Seniors: Combo Dance Fitness & Let Your Yoga Dance® (Virtual)
Monday, June 10
11-11:45 a.m.
A fun, dynamic, and ultimately blissful combo. We start with some high-energy (low-impact) dance fitness and then work our way through the seven energy centers (chakras) with Let Your Yoga Dance. You will leave with a good workout and a peaceful, happy mind/body/spirit. It’s good for everybody! Registration is required for each session. This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.
Sewing 101 (Main)
Monday, June 10, 3-4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 11, 1-2:30 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.
CPL Nature Club - Spring Birdwatching (O'Neill)
Monday, June 10
4-5:30 p.m.
Join us as we walk to our nearby wildlife hotspot, Danehy Park, and search for birds! As we explore the urban outdoors, we’ll discuss birdwatching tips, how to identify an unfamiliar bird and learn a little bit more about the birds we share our outdoor spaces with. A limited supply of binoculars will be available. We will meet inside the O'Neill Branch before walking to Danehy. Registration is required. For more information, call 617-349-4023.
LEGO Time (Main)
Monday, June 10
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.
Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Monday, June 10
5-6 p.m.
Need help with a class? Have a question before an exam? Tutors are available to help you! Cambridge School Volunteers and the Library are pleased to offer tutoring services in the Teen Room on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please contact us with any questions at 617-349-4027 (voice) or via relay at 711.
ESOL Conversation Class (Valente)
Monday, June 10
6-7 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.
Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, June 11
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.
Beginner ESOL Class (Valente)
Tuesday, June 11
2:30-4 p.m.
Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Class. This class will be taught at a beginner level. All are welcome. No registration is necessary. No testing is needed. For more information call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013 or Kerri McQuown at 617-349-4015
Juneteenth Unlimited with Wee the People (O'Neill)
Tuesday, June 11
3-4 p.m.
Get ready for a summer celebration of freedom and resilience with Juneteenth Unlimited! In this interactive workshop, we'll explore the story of Juneteenth, the oldest commemoration of the outlawing of slavery in the United States. Through stories, crafts, and a Jubilee teach-in, we'll honor the joy and radical resistance of Black Americans then and now. Geared for ages 6 and older accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. Presented by Wee the People Boston.
Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)
Tuesday, June 11, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, June 14, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 15, 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) can reserve equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able.
Drop-in Tech Help (Central Square)
Tuesday, June 11
4-6 p.m.
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want help using an online resource? Need someone to read your résumé and help with navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in hours. No registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov.
Pineapple Project (Boudreau)
Tuesday, June 11
4-5 p.m.
Celebrate Pride Month with a performance from Pineapple Project! This original theatrical show features the power of friendship, the importance of being your true self, and lots of laughs. No registration is necessary.
Queer Zine Making Workshop (Central Square)
Tuesday, June 11
6-8 p.m.
In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn what exactly a zine is (spoiler: it's basically any kind of independently made small book or booklet, usually photocopied and bound by folding or stapling—though not always!). Then you will learn how to make your very own, very queer zine! Learn more. Registration is required.
Board Game Night for Adults (Valente)
Tuesday, June 11
6-7:30 p.m.
Join us for an evening of board games. We have Ticket to Ride, Settlers of Catan, Scrabble, chess, checkers, Boggle, Bananagrams, and more! Feel free to bring a board game of your own to play with others. We will provide pizza and beverages. Registration is helpful.
Robert Pinsky in conversation with Stephen Greenblatt (Main)
Tuesday, June 11
6-7:30 p.m.
The Library and Harvard Book Store welcome Robert Pinsky—Poet Laureate of the United States from 1997 to 2000, author of At the Foundling Hospital, The Figured Wheel, and The Want Bone, and professor in the graduate creative writing program at Boston University—for a discussion of his new poetry collection, Proverbs of Limbo. He will be talking with Stephen Greenblatt—the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Will in the World and The Swerve. Registration is required.
Create Your Own Vision Board (O'Connell)
Tuesday, June 11
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Come and create your very own vision board! A vision board is a collage of images and words that you create to represent your goals and aspirations. Vision boards can spark your motivation and remind you of the things that bring you joy! All materials will be provided. Questions? Contact Abby at aclinger@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4019.
Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, June 11
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.
Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-in (O’Connell)
Wednesday, June 12
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Bring your project and enjoy the company of other fiber crafters. Work on your craft, get inspired, pick up skills, and socialize. Knit, embroider, crochet, spin, mend, and cross stitch.
3D Printing 101: Game Piece Design (Main)
Wednesday, June 12
1-2:30 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.
Résumé and Job Application Support (Central Square)
Wednesday, June 12
1-3 p.m.
Looking for help creating a résumé or finding jobs? Join us for assistance with job hunting and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013.
English Conversation Practice, Intermediate (O'Neill)
Wednesday, June 12
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.
Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)
Wednesday, June 12
1-2 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!
Wednesdays of Wonder - WOW - Open Gameplay with One Up Games (O'Neill)
Wednesday, June 12
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. No registration is required. This week we will be building a solar system!
Pop-Up Video Game Arcade for Teens (Main)
Wednesday, June 12
3:30-6:30 p.m.
Come game with us! The recreational gaming company One Up Games will provide new and old games across a variety of systems, including Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation. There will be room for up to 30 gamers to play at the same time.
The Hive Teen Hangout (Main)
Wednesday, June 12
3:30-5 p.m.
Have you checked out The Hive yet? Teens are welcome to come learn about our space and try their hand at sticker making, video recording in our studio, and more. This is a drop-in event designed for patrons ages 12-18.
One-on-One Tech Help by Appointment (Boudreau)
Wednesday, June 12
4-4:45 p.m.
Would you like help navigating the Library's e-resources, like Libby or Hoopla? Or maybe you need some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Book a free one-on-one tech help session.
Some topics we cover include:
- Downloading Library eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines to your tablet, smartphone, or laptop
- Navigating databases and other Library resources such as Linkedin Learning
- Using the Internet and e-mail
- Setting up devices like smartphones or streaming devices
Guidelines for basic tech help:
- Scheduled sessions run between 30 and 45 minutes.
- Please bring your device, cords, and any necessary account information.
- Library staff cannot be held responsible for damage to patrons’ equipment.
If you have questions, please send them to: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov.
Sewing Circle (Main)
Wednesday, June 12
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Continue building your machine-sewing skills AND receive support as you work on your projects with our Library sewing community. Participants must register but may drop in at any time during the program. Registration is required. This program is designed for patrons who know the basics of how to use our Janome sewing machines. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Wednesday Word Puzzles (O'Connell)
Wednesday, June 12
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Drop in to try some fun puzzles every week: word searches, riddles, and variety crosswords! You can come alone or bring a grown-up. Recommended for ages 11 and up. No registration is required. E-mail cmeisler@cambridgema.gov for more details.
Cambridge Cooks with Afton Cyrus (Main)
Wednesday, June 12
5:30-7 p.m.
Afton Cyrus of Jam Sessions is back for the best time of the year - strawberry season! Come learn how to make your own strawberry rhubarb jam. Cambridge Cooks invites local chefs for a free cooking demonstration, followed by a tasting and Q&A with the chef. Registration is required.
Family Board Game Night (Valente)
Wednesday, June 12
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Challenge your family or meet new friends over board games in the Community Room. The Library will supply games and snacks. No registration is required for this drop-in event.
This event is recommended for children ages 5 and up, with their caregivers. Call 617-349-4015 for more information.
Songs and Stories with guest author Ellen Mayer (O'Connell)
Wednesday, June 12
5:30-6:15 p.m.
Stories, songs, and activities with Ellen Mayer to celebrate her new book, Gift & Box (Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2023).
Families with children of all ages can join us for a story time, plus a singalong with a bluegrass trio - The Incorrigibles! Children can explore and touch the instruments and do an activity that lets them experience what it's like to be the story character Gift inside of story character Box.
Wednesday Word Puzzles - Drop-In (O'Connell)
Wednesday, June 12
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Drop in to try some fun puzzles every week: word searches, riddles, and variety crosswords! You can come alone or bring a grownup. Recommended for ages 11 and up. No registration is required. Email cmeisler@cambridgema.gov for more details.
Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)
Thursday, June 13, 10-11 a.m.
Friday, June 15, 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. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop.
One-on-One Tech Help (Main, by appointment)
Thursday, June 12
11 a.m.-Noon
Looking for some basic computer or mobile device guidance? Want to learn how to access audiobooks and eBooks? Stop by the Main Library for our drop-in hours! Drop-in sessions will be limited to 30 minutes for each patron.
We can help you with:
- accessing Library eBooks, audiobooks, and other eResources on your devices
- e-mail and searching the web
- smartphone and mobile app questions
We are not able to help you with:
- installing advanced software programs
- completing online transactions for you
- computer hardware and technical maintenance
If you have any questions, please contact gjosette@cambridgema.gov.
Puzzle Party (Main)
Thursday, June 13
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle—an hour of fun and conversation. Thank you to the Adult Services team for this program.
Read to a Dog (O'Neill)
Thursday, June 13
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 (617-349-4023).
CPL Nature Club: Plant a Seed, Grow a Flower (O'Connell)
Thursday, June 13
4-5 p.m.
Spring is in full swing, so it’s time to plant seeds! Join us to plant your very own marigolds, decorate a container, learn about the life cycle of a plant, and check out some books about gardening!
This event is open to children ages 5 and up and their caregivers. Registration is required for children; caregivers need not register.
Being with Trees Creatively: Watercolor class (Main)
Thursday, June 13
5-7 p.m.
Together we will explore the unique features of individual trees and tree species using our senses and watercolor paint as tools for creative discovery. Weather permitting, we will spend most of the time outdoors, so please dress for the weather and bring a hat with a brim if possible. This is a process-oriented class that welcomes all levels of art experience from beginners to professional artists. Come connect with trees creatively! This workshop is led by the artist and naturalist Rebecca Arnoldi. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.
Juneteenth Meets 'Froca Fitness (Central Square)
Thursday, June 13
6-7:30 p.m.
In celebration of Juneteenth, come groove with the dance founder of Froca Fitness, Sylver at the Dance Complex! Meet us at the Central Square Branch at 6 p.m. before we walk over to the Dance Complex or meet us at the Dance Complex at 6:30.
Please note that the event will be held at the Dance Complex, 536 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, in Studio 6. The Dance Complex is a 5–7-minute walk from the Central Square Branch.
Google Docs Tips and Tricks (Main)
Thursday, June 13
6-7 p.m.
Get more practice with Google Docs! Learn some tips and tricks when you create online documents. You will need a Gmail (Google e-mail) account. Please remember your e-mail and password. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass.
The Hive Safety Training (Main)
Thursday, June 13
7:30-8 p.m.
Are you interested in using The Hive? In this workshop you will learn about our makerspace, how to use the resources we offer, and how to keep safe in The Hive. Find out what you need to get started as a maker in The Hive here. Registration is required. Completion of The Hive Safety Training is the entry point to making, innovating, and collaborating in this space. Makers must also sign The Hive User Agreement and Waivers.
End-of-Year Teen Party (Main)
Friday, June 14
3-5 p.m.
Come party in the Teen Room to celebrate the end of the school year! Enjoy pizza, drinks, snacks, and games, and DJ your favorite songs as we dance our cares away. This event is brought to you by this year's Teen Advisory Board.
Kids' Zine Collective (O'Neill)
Friday, June 14
4-5 p.m.
What's a zine? And how do you make one? Come find out! Kids are invited to explore making, copying, sharing, and swapping zines. It will include activities like writing, drawing, and collage. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Snacks are provided!
Drop-in Maker Studio (O'Neill)
Saturday, June 15
1-3 p.m.
Come to the Library to create something special! Use your own supplies or try out our equipment! You can use our 1-inch button maker, 2.5-inch button maker, 3-D Doodle pens, or Janome sewing machines. The Library will provide basic supplies.
This drop-in program is for people who feel comfortable using these machines on their own. The Library will not provide instruction. Anyone wishing to use the sewing machines must have completed a Sewing 101 training through the Library. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Isha Kriya at the Library (Main)
Saturday, June 15
11 a.m.-Noon
In this session, you will learn Isha Kriya, a simple 12-18-minute practice, to help you become meditative effortlessly. For beginners and experienced meditators alike!
Daily practice of Isha Kriya meditation offers:
1. Enhanced clarity
2. Improved health
3. Heightened focus and energy
4. Greater prosperity and a state of peacefulness and joy
Note: While registration is preferred, it is not required. Walk-ins are welcome!
PARK SOUNDS: The Squeezebox Stompers (Main)
Saturday, June 15
1-3 p.m.
The Squeezebox Stompers are a Boston-area Americana Roots band. They have performed Cajun, Zydeco, Blues, Folk, and originals all over New England for the past 20 years. Members of the band have received Boston Music Awards and Songwriting Awards. They are noted for their lively upbeat music inspiring audiences to get up and dance. Their instrumentation includes accordion, keyboards, fiddle, saxophone, harmonica, penny whistle, guitar, bass, and drums. Rain date: Saturday, June 22, from 1 to 3. PARK SOUNDS 2024 brings free outdoor musical performances featuring local artists to the front lawn of the Library. These events are for all ages. Bring a chair, food, and loved ones to celebrate the summer! Funding is provided by the CPL Foundation.
ASL at the Library - Signing Rocks!
Saturday, June 15
1-2 p.m.
Join us for a party and an American Sign Language (ASL) class rolled into one! SIGNING Basics hosts this event, which teaches students various ASL signs through fun games and activities for beginners or intermediate learners who have more advanced skills. Signing Rocks! events are conducted in ASL with experienced instructors. Sign language interpreting is not provided; you will learn the vocabulary as you experience the class. This program is great for adults, teens, and families with kids ages 7+! Registration is required.
Cambridge Youth Gamelan (Main)
Saturday, June 15
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join the Cambridge Youth Gamelan for a special performance featuring the Balinese musicians Dewa Ayu Eka Putri & Putu Tangkas Adi Hiranmayena. In this performance, you will hear traditional Balinese music performed on the gamelan gong kebyar, one of Bali's most popular ensembles. You will learn how the music is arranged in complex rhythmic melodic layers, how the musicians learn to play, and the basic principles behind Balinese music and dance. At the end of the performance, audience members are invited onto the stage to try out the instruments. Registration is required. Cosponsored by the Library.
Stay Connected
Please subscribe to our e-mail 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 library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4032 (voice) or via relay at 711.