Director's Update, July 28, 2024

Dear Patrons,  

 

There is just under one month left of Summer Reading at the Library! I hope you're working on your bingo challenges. I’m currently reading The Waltham Murders: One Woman’s Pursuit to Expose the Truth Behind a Murder and a National Tragedy by Susan Clare Zalkind, who is a Massachusetts-based author. Learn more here: camb.ma/summerreading.

 

On Tuesday, July 30, join the CPL Nature Club at Fresh Pond's Lusitania Meadow at 11 a.m. for a short walk in which we observe and learn about a dazzlingly diverse class of animals. This program is open to all ages, from adults to children and their caregivers. Registration is required.

 

On Saturday, August 3, come to the O'Neill Branch dressed as your favorite comic book or graphic novel character. Enjoy fun activities related to the best loved characters, from Dog Man to superheroes and more! For children of all ages and their caregivers. Registration is not required.

 

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The Library is pleased to offer the following programs during the week that begins on July 28.  

 

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.  

• Sing-Alongs

• Story Times

 

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 29 

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 29, and Wednesday, July 31  

10:30 a.m.-Noon and 1-2:30 p.m. 

Tuesday, July 30 

11 a.m.-Noon, 1-2:30 p.m., and 3-4:30 p.m. 

 

High Beginner ESOL is at 10:30 a.m. on Monday and at 1 p.m. on Tuesday. Beginner ESOL is on Monday (1 p.m.) and Wednesday (10:30 a.m.). Intermediate ESOL is on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Advanced ESOL is on Tuesday at 3 p.m.  

 

ESOL classes at the Literacy Center are taking a break in August. We will resume classes in September. 

 

 

Serger Training (Main)

Monday, July 29, 3-4:30 p.m. 

 

Are you an intermediate or advanced sewer? This workshop will cover serger machine setup, threading a serger, and identifying correct tension settings with different types of fabric. You will learn about ways to use our Elna Extend 864 Air serger to take your sewing skills to the next level by producing special finishing styles, hemming, trimming, and assembling your garments. This workshop is designed for patrons who have prior experience using a sewing machine. If you are new to machine sewing, we recommend you take our Sewing 101 workshop before using our serger. 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 29 

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 29 

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 rather a gathering for individuals who want to play and 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 email: ipachoncaballero@cambridgema.gov or mmcglathery@cambridgema.gov. 

 

ESOL Conversation Class (Valente)

Monday, July 29 

6-7:30 p.m. 

 

Join us for an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)! This class will be taught at a beginner level. No testing is needed. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013. 

 

 

Summer Reading: Fresh Pond Bug Walk (Boudreau)

Tuesday, July 30 

11 a.m.-Noon

 

Have you ever wanted to know more about the little insect critters that live in our local ecosystems? Join the CPL Nature Club at Fresh Pond's Lusitania Meadow for a short walk in which we observe and learn about this dazzlingly diverse class of animals. This program is open to all ages, from adults to children and their caregivers. Registration is required. Please register all attendees, including caregivers. For more information, contact Michael McGlathery at mmcglathery@cambridgema.gov or call the Boudreau Branch at 617-349-4017.

 

Tuesday Teen Room Hangouts (Main)

Tuesday, July 30 

2-5 p.m. 

 

Drop into the Teen Room 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.  

 

Beginner ESOL Class (Valente)

Tuesday, July 16 

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. 

 

Sit 'n' Knit (Main)

Tuesday, July 30 

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. 

 

Drop-in Tech Help (Central Square)

Tuesday, July 30 

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 support navigating online job applications? Join us for our drop-in help hours. Registration is not required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov. 

 

Equipment and Studio Reservations (Main)

Tuesday, July 30, 4-8:30 p.m. 

Thursday, August 1, 3:30-8:30 p.m. 

Friday, August 2, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 

Saturday, August 3, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 

 

During this reservation period, anyone who has completed The Hive training and is badged to use equipment or studio(s) can reserve The Hive equipment or studio spaces. Staff will assist participants as they are able. 

 

Knitting Group (Boudreau)

Tuesday, July 30 

6:30-7:30 p.m. 

 

Bring your project, yarn, and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters. Registration is not required.

 

Death Café (Virtual)

Tuesday, July 30 

7-8 p.m. 

 

Join us for a virtual Death Café, an evening of open, lively, and insightful discussion about death for adults aged 18 and older. While not a support group or a venue for bereavement, a Death Café seeks to provide an unscripted, nonjudgmental platform for those wishing to explore the many facets of this often taboo subject. Facilitated by Richard Davis, a long-time Death Café organizer and hospice volunteer. Come with an open mind, a healthy curiosity, and a willingness to share your thoughts, feelings, and questions with other like-minded individuals. This is a virtual event on Zoom. Space is limited. Registration is required.

 

 

Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-In (O'Connell)

Wednesday, July 31 

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! Registration is not required.

 

iPhone and iPhone Basics (Main)

Wednesday, July 31 

11 a.m.-Noon 

 

This workshop caters to iPhone or iPad users. Topics will include basic device navigation, Wi-Fi connectivity, settings adjustments, app organization, and fostering confidence in safe device usage. Attendees must bring their own iPhone or iPad. Registration is required. (Please sign into your device with your Apple account ID and password before class.) To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go to tinyurl.com/basictechclass. 

 

English Conversation Practice, Intermediate (O’Neill)

Wednesday, July 31 

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 or registration 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 31 

1-3 p.m. 

 

Looking for assistance creating a résumé or looking for jobs? Join us for assistance with résumés, job hunting, and online applications. No registration is required. For more information, call Maria Balestrieri at 617-349-4013. 

Summer Reading: Nintendo Switch Party for Ages 7-9 (Main)

Wednesday, July 31 

2-3:30 p.m. 

 

Join our Nintendo Switch party! We'll have two multiplayer games available to play on our library consoles. This program is for ages 7-9. There will be a Nintendo Switch Party for older kids in August. 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 617-349-4038 for more information.  

 

Summer Reading: Rockabye Beats (O'Connell)

Wednesday, July 31 

2-3 p.m. 

 

Come join Rockabye Beats for an interactive, musical program experience! 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. Registration is not required.

 

Wednesdays of Wonder – WOW (O'Neill)

Wednesday, July 31 

2-4 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 celebrate the 2024 Summer Olympic Games by playing indoor and outdoor games. Registration is not required.

Sewing 101 (Main)

Wednesday, July 31 

3:30-5 p.m. 

 

In this 90-minute 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 sewing project—a drawstring bag—which most students will be able to complete by the end of the class. 

You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required.

 

Vinyl Cutting 101 (Main)

Wednesday, July 31 

6:30-7:30 p.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! You must complete The Hive Safety Training before registering for this workshop. Registration is required.

 

 

One-on-One Tech Help (Main, by appointment)

Thursday, August 1 

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:  

• 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. Registration is required.

 

Teen Book Discussion: The Faint of Heart (Main)

Thursday, August 1 

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. Registration is not required. Pizza will be provided. Call 617-349-4027 for more information.  

 

The Hive Safety Training (Virtual)

Thursday, August 1 

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. 

 

Puzzle Party (Main)

Thursday, August 1 

2:30-3:30 p.m. 

 

Join our librarians for tea, cookies, and a jigsaw puzzle. It’s an hour of fun and conversation. Registration is not required.

 

Summer Reading: Wildlife Ambassadors with Mass Audubon (Valente)

Thursday, August 1 

4-5 p.m. 

 

What better way to learn about wildlife than by observing them in person? Meet 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. Registration is not required.

 

Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)

Thursday, August 1 

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! Registration is not required.

 

 

Summer Reading: Wingmasters presents the World of Owls (Boudreau)

Friday, August 2 

11 a.m.-Noon 

 

Featuring a variety of live owls, this captivating and informative program shows how owls use their specialized powers of sight, hearing, and flight to survive and thrive. A wealth of facts and folklore about these masters of the dark explains the natural and unnatural history of owls. Recommended for children ages 6 and up and their caregivers. Registration is not required.

 

 

The Hive Safety Training (Main)

Saturday, August 3 

9:30-10:30 a.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. 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. Registration is required.  

Summer Reading: Mini Comic-Con (O'Neill)

Saturday, August 3 

2-3:30 p.m. 

 

Come to the Library dressed as your favorite comic book or graphic novel character. Enjoy fun activities related to the best loved characters from Dog Man, to superheroes and more! For children of all ages and their caregivers. Registration is not required.

 

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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  

 

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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.