Director's Update, April 13, 2025

Dear Patrons,

Last week was National Library Week. This was a special National Library Week because it coincided with the visit to Cambridge of Cindy Hohl, the President of the American Library Association.

Mayor E. Denise Simmons submitted a resolution to the City Council in honor of the Cambridge Public Library and its dedicated employees, which was approved unanimously. Thank you to Vice-Mayor McGovern and the Mayor's Office for hosting a successful breakfast meeting. President Hohl also toured the Main Library and met with patrons and staff. Activities were attended by elected officials at the state and municipal levels, city staff, Library Trustees, community leaders, and representatives of public, school, and academic libraries, who joined us to celebrate the power of libraries to facilitate knowledge creation and transform lives.

I also thank the awesome library team who helped to make National Library Week such a success and our Friends and Foundation for supporting this week! I'm happy to share that I have been elected 2026-2027 American Library Association president. After the ALA Annual Conference in Philadelphia, in late June 2025, I will begin my volunteer duties as ALA president-elect. I look forward to working with library workers and advocates across every type of library in the United States and internationally. Thank you to the voters and volunteers who have supported me throughout my candidacy!

Upcoming Events
On Thursday, April 17, 6:30-8 p.m., visit the Main Library for Sacred Songs and Rituals. Kendra Comstock, soprano, and Charles Iner, lute, will explore Catholic persecution during the English Renaissance and the forms of secret musical resistance Catholic musicians created during this time. Sacred Songs and Rituals is a Cambridge Public Library music series celebrating the divine in the many cultures found in Cambridge.Registration is required.

On Saturday, April 19, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m., learn to fix your broken household items, such as electronics, appliances, clothing, and toys etc. at the Fixit Clinic in The Hive. Volunteer Fixit coaches will review, take apart, and assist in repair attempts. Gain the confidence and knowledge to make repairs and teach others to do the same. Open to all ages, registration is required. This event is brought to you by the Cambridge Public Library, The Cambridge Department of Public Works, and FixIt Clinic.

+++

Weekly Activities for Kids

This week, these programs will be offered at our Boudreau, Central Square, Main, O'Connell, O'Neill, and Valente locations.

Book Groups

Learn more about our Book Groups.

The Hive Workshops

Check out this week's classes in The Hive.

ESOL Classes

Find an ESOL Class.

Tech Help

Wellness for Older Adults: Chair Yoga (Central)
Monday, April 14
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join us each Monday at the Central Square Branch for Chair Yoga, led by experienced instructor Louise Parker. This is an in-person program taking place in the Lewis Room at Central Square.Registration is required for each session.Louise Parker has been practicing yoga for close to 20 years. She is trained in the Yoga Shanti method of practice, which is rooted in the Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga traditions.

Wellness for Older Adults: Let Your Yoga Dance (Virtual)
Monday, April 14
11-11:45 a.m.

A fun, dynamic, and ultimately blissful class. We'll 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. Good for everybody! This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event. Registration for each session is required.

STEAM Academy: iFp Studio (Main)
Monday, April 14; Tuesday, April 15; Wednesday, April 16, and Thursday, April 17
3:30-7:30 p.m.

Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Studio is a teen-powered design and innovation program where teens channel their energy and creative vision to imagine and build a better world. Blending art, design, science, technology, and storytelling within a social justice framework, teens engage in real-world client-sponsored projects. Teens are invited to learn more on the iFp website and submit an application.

STEAM Academy: iFp Labs (Main)
Monday, April 14
4:30-6:30 p.m.

In Innovators for Purpose (iFp) Labs, students dive into the exciting world of social robots-machines designed to interact, learn, and connect. From brainstorming ideas to building prototypes, students explore how AI and robotics can foster fairer, more inclusive communities. They design robots that serve as friendly companions, offering support, connection, and solutions to real-world challenges. Teens in 7th and 8th grade are invited to learn more and apply on the iFp website: Innovators for Purpose. Skills Learned: Human-Centered Design, Mechanics, Electronics, Computer Programming, AI, and more.

Drop-in Hours with the Social Worker (Central Square)
Monday, April 14
2-5 p.m.

Get support from our Library social worker! Registration is not required.

Chess Hour (Boudreau)
Monday, April 14
5-6 p.m.

Players of all skill levels and all ages 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.

Tween STEAM (Main)
Monday, April 14
5:30-6:30 p.m.

Interested in technology and art? Join Tween STEAM to learn how to use circuits to make light up cards, build LEGO cities, or use brush bots to paint abstract art. Every month, there's something new to make! Program begins at 5:30 p.m., and tickets are available at the desk. Please call 617-349-4038 for more information.

Zoom Basics (Valente)
Tuesday, April 15
12-1 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! Spanish Translation Services Available/Servicios de traducción al español disponibles. To view and register for other Basic Tech Classes at the Library, please go totinyurl.com/basictechclass.

Sit 'n' Knit (Main)
Tuesday, April 15
2:30-3:30 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, and mend. Refreshments will be provided.

Drop-In Tech Help at the Library (Central Square)
Tuesday, April 15
3:30-5:30 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 between 4 and 6pm. No registration required. If you have any questions, please contact library@cambridgema.gov.

Free Drop-in Tutoring for Teens (Main)
Tuesday, April 15, Wednesday, April 16, and Thursday, April 17
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. No registration is required. Stop by or call 617-349-4027 to learn more.

Knitting Group (Boudreau)
Tuesday, April 15
6:30-7:30 p.m.

Bring your project, yarn and needles to enjoy an hour in the company of other crafters.

Introduction to Rewilding: Mindfulness and Nature as a Path to Calm (Central Square)
Wednesday, April 16
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Come once or join every workshop in this 6-part series to explore the concept of "Shinrin-yoku" ("forest bathing") which is the practice of being mindful and contemplative within nature, using all your senses. The experiential portion of the workshops will focus on our senses one at a time, workshop-by-workshop, through simple mindfulness exercises, gentle guided nature imagery, and other grounding activities that promote relaxation and (re-)connection with ourselves and with nature.

Fiber Crafts Group - Drop-In (O'Connell)
Wednesday, April 16
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!

Expressive Arts for Older Adults: Open Studio (Main)
Wednesday, April 16
1:30-3:30 p.m.

Looking for a space to unleash your creativity? Join instructor Marguerite White, Wednesday afternoons March 5 through April 30 (No group on April 2), for two hours each week to work on a drawing or watercolor project of your choice. A still-life arrangement and basic supplies will be provided. Registration required for each session. If you have any questions, please reach out to Brynne Quinlan at bquinlan@cambridgema.gov or (617)349-4041.

Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (O'Neill)
Wednesday, April 16
2:30-4 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. No registration required. This week we will make cardboard binoculars!

Wednesdays of Wonder - W.O.W.! (Valente)
Wednesday, April 16
2:30-4 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. No registration required.

CPL Nature Club: Cloud & Nature Walk (Boudreau)
Wednesday, April 16
3:30-4:30 p.m.

Join us as we take a walk to enjoy the natural wonders of spring and learn about clouds. We will get to know some spring birds, look for early flowers and leaf buds, and see how many different types of clouds we can identify! This event is open to all ages. The walk will be on a wheelchair-accessible paved footpath in Danehy Park. Registration is required. The meeting spot for this event will be sent to registrants via email.

Beginner Crochet Workshop (O'Neill)
Wednesday, April 16
6:15-7:45 p.m.

Join us for a beginner-friendly crochet class at O'Neill! Learn how to chain, single crochet, half double crochet, and finish a project as we create a stitch sampler. All materials provided - no experience needed! You'll leave with materials and a pattern to continue your practice after class. Registration required.

Wednesday Night Creative Writing Group (Main)
Wednesday, April 16,
6:30-8:30 p.m.

Writers of all experience levels are invited to join a casual, peer-supported writing group. In this group, participants take turns bringing short in-progress or completed pieces of any genre. The group reads several pieces each month, sharing feedback and constructive criticism in a supportive and inclusive environment. We may practice in-class writing exercises and read samples of published writing as time allows. Registration is required.

Aging with Mindfulness (Virtual)
Thursday, April 17
9-10 a.m.

This program, led by Zeenat Potia, will introduce and utilize mindfulness techniques to help us examine and regulate everyday life changes with a focus on aging. Participants will learn and benefit from the development of a mindfulness practice to enable responding to getting older in a calm, clear and thoughtful manner. Presented in Partnership with Cambridge Insight Meditation Center (CIMC). Registration is required. This is a virtual event. A Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants 1 hour before the event.

CPL Nature Club: Fresh Pond Nature Walk (O'Neill)
Thursday, April 17
10:15-11:30 a.m.

Join us for a relaxing walk of Fresh Pond with Park Ranger Tim Puopolo! No two weeks are the same in nature, and Tim will share his insights about what's growing, changing, and blooming in the neighborhood. This walk is not on a paved path. We will walk on uneven terrain, down hills, and over roots.

The meeting location for this walk will be in front of the Fresh Pond Ranger Station at 250 Fresh Pond Parkway (under the clock tower).Registration is required. This event can only accommodate a certain number of participants. One registration is good for one person. If you do not register, you cannot participate. Those on the waitlist will be contacted if space becomes available. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

CPL Nature Club: Elder Walks (Boudreau)
Thursday, April 17
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join guide Stefanie Haug while exploring our neighborhood nature and celebrating Elderhood. As a group we'll connect with nature mindfully with a gentle walk and draw on contemplative practices.

What to bring: layered clothing, comfortable shoes and water.
Where to meet: outside the Boudreau entrance.

Stefanie Haug, LICSW (she/her) guides people on journeys of self-awareness and relationship with nature as a local psychotherapist and certified Mindful Outdoor Guide (Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership). Registration is required.

Creative Aging: Improv (Main)
Thursday, April 17
1:30-3:30 p.m.

A series of classes with instruction from Comedian Jack Grey. Learn how to seamlessly integrate interactive improv games, scenes, and skillful storytelling that all come together with performance. The 10-week course will take place every Thursday, from 1:30pm-3:30pm, starting February 27 through May 1. This will be an in-person program at the Main Library. Space is limited to 15 participants. Due to the popularity and to gain the most out of this program, we expect all participants to commit to all sessions in this 10-week course. Instructor Jack Grey is a local comedy performer with over nine years of combined improv and stand-up comedy experience. They produce their own shows and workshops in Camberville, believing that kindness and community can be born from laughter. Learn more at constellationcomedy.com. Registration is required. This workshop is full; a wait list is available. Sponsored by the Cambridge Public Library Foundation.

Puzzle Swap (Main)
Thursday, April 17
2:30-3:30 p.m.

Donate your gently used jigsaw puzzles and browse a collection of fun new puzzles to take home! Puzzles of all sizes for all ages are welcome. Nomore than5puzzles per person/group if you are dropping off in advance. ONLY1 puzzleif you are donating at the swap.

Donation policy:

• Make sure your puzzle has all the pieces

• Rubber band or tape the box so it won't fall open

• Drop off puzzles at the Main Library Q&A desk Monday April 14 - Wednesday April 16

Creative Expression for Teens with Zahirah Nur Truth (Main)
Thursday, April 17
3-5 p.m.

Zahirah Nur Truth of ZNT Arts will facilitate a workshop that honors creative expression as a tool to empower young people to celebrate joy! Spring is the time to set new intentions. We will use text art inspired by artists that work in collage, stencil and 3D art. Come make your very own unique colorful vibrant Spring posters. We will be using flowers, fabric and more.

Fiber Arts Circle (Central Square)
Thursday, April 17
4-5 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!

Sacred Songs and Rituals: Secret Worship Under The Tudors (Main)
Thursday, April 17
6:30-8 p.m.

Sacred Songs and Rituals brings Kendra Comstock, soprano, and Charles Iner, lute, to explore Catholic persecution during the English Renaissance and the forms of secret musical resistance Catholic musicians created during this time. Sacred Songs and Rituals is a Cambridge Public Library music series celebrating the divine in the many cultures found in Cambridge. Registration is required.

Wellness for Older Adults: Tai Chi Paradigm - Beginner (Valente)
Friday, April 11
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Join instructor Darren Hairston for Zumba Gold - the fun and energizing dance fitness class tailored for active older adults and beginners! Set to vibrant, upbeat music, Zumba Gold features low-impact, easy-to-follow dance moves that make staying fit enjoyable and accessible for all fitness levels. Improve your balance, flexibility, and cardio health while having a great time in a supportive and friendly environment. No dance experience needed-just bring your smile and a willingness to move! Registration is required. This workshop is full; a waitlist is available.

Kick Back and Color (Central Square)
Friday, April 18
3-5 p.m.

Drop by the Central Square Branch's Lewis Room to color and chat with your neighbors. Puzzles and snacks will be provided. No registration required.

Cambridge Young Authors' Squad - CYAS with guest author Patrick Joyce (O'Neill)
Friday, April 18
4-5 p.m.

Young people ages 10 to 14 who love to write are welcome to share their ideas and writing. There will be time for share-outs/workshopping, as well as group or solo writing. Snacks are provided! This week we will be joined by guest author Patrick Joyce, author of Back in the USSR and Strawberry Fields. If you are attending for the first time, registration is helpful but not required.

FixIt Clinic (Main)
Saturday, April 19
11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Learn to fix your broken household items, such as electronics, appliances, clothing, and toys etc. at the Fixit Clinic. Volunteer Fixit coaches will review, take apart, and assist in repair attempts. Gain the confidence and knowledge to make repairs and teach others to do the same. This event takes place in The Hive, located on L1 of the Main Library. Open to all ages, registration is required. This event is brought to you by the Cambridge Public Library, The Cambridge Department of Public Works, and Fixit Clinic.

Chess Hour (O'Neill)
Saturday, April 19
3-4 p.m.

Join us for a game of chess at the O'Neill Branch Library! Players of all skill levels and all ages are welcome to participate. Chess sets will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. This is a space for individuals to play and test their skills against other members of the community. This is not an instructional class. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 617-349-4023 or via email: s joycefarley@cambridgema.gov.

+++

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

++++

About the Cambridge Public Library:
At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds, and empower community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives and democracy thrives. The Library's programming provides an opportunity for civic dialogue, conversation, and learning, which includes exploring a wide range of views. Visit our website to learn more. Subscribe to our email list to stay up to date on our events here.