Latest news with #WatertownPublicLibrary
CBS News
03-04-2025
- General
- CBS News
Watertown's "library of things" offers creative community workspace. Here's a look inside.
The library in Watertown, Massachusetts is providing the tools and a space for people to get creative and learn new skills. "A lot of libraries have started a ' library of things ' collection, but they don't have necessarily a space to allow people to just make and create and build community," Watertown Public Library director Kim Hewitt said. "We have a big Hatch-maker space and that was one of the first in the area." The "Hatch" facility on Summer Street is right around the block from the main library. The workshop is stocked with tools, materials, and expertise for everyone to learn in a venue that fosters creativity. "We have scraps of material to play around with, the sewing machines, or create something, jewelry making. It doesn't have to be prescriptive. You can go there and see what appeals to you," Hewitt said. The Hatch space is a standout amongst similar programs in Massachusetts, and it just celebrated it's tenth birthday. It has button makers, laser cutters, and even 3-D printers. "I mean, it's just like it comes out like hard plastic," volunteer Seth Deitch said. Talented expert volunteers are there to assist patrons with their projects, which is how Deitch first started in the space. "We're very lucky to have the people that we have who volunteer here. Many of them are extremely talented. Lots of people with advanced degrees," Deitch said. Hatch also offers workshops that more and more people in the community are getting involved in. "It's nice having a space for the entire community that's free to come to and work at," Deitch said. "Nowadays, people spend a lot of their time staring at screens, not enough working with their hands." The best part is, anyone in the state can get in on the fun. "As long as you're a Massachusetts resident, you can get a library card at the Watertown Public Library," said Ran Cronin, the library's access services supervisor. "I'm really lucky to live in Watertown where we have this," Deitch said. The library is hoping to expand the Hatch space. It also has one of the largest English language-learning programs, called Project Literacy, which serves 900 students per year.
Boston Globe
23-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Free events in Boston this week: Harry Potter trivia, Wilde plays, plus bottomless bites
WOMEN IN FILM Marking the lead up to Women's History Month, MIT's Consortium for Graduate Studies in Gender, Culture, Women, and Sexuality is wasting no time celebrating the achievements of women in film. The 14th annual Women Take the Reel Film Fest kicks off with 'Necessity: Climate Justice and the Thin Green Line,' telling the story of Indigenous climate activist leaders throughout history. Following the hourlong documentary screening, a Q&A with director Jan Haaken will be led by Boston Climate Action Network's Hessann Farooqi, and a reception for socializing and conversation. This is the first film in a monthlong program featuring women-led productions screening at several universities throughout Boston. Those interested should save their seat at the Feb. 27, 6-9 p.m. Wiesner Building, Ames Street, Cambridge. Advertisement TAINTED GLORY A modern version of Oscar Wilde's 'An Ideal Husband' will spotlight familiar struggles and places as Federico Muchnik, the play's Cambridge-based re-writer, adapts the story's themes to the current local housing crisis. The original work by Wilde is a social commentary that calls out Britain's morally questionable upper-echelon politicians. In this new iteration, the main character, Robert Chiltern (originally a British government minister), tackles equally challenging civic and personal drama as Boston's 'Housing Czar.' Those interested should reserve their seat at the March 1, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Cambridge Public Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge. Advertisement ESPLANADE RUN When winter hits, sometimes we want to punch back. The 261 Fearless Club, for one, isn't letting the cold push them around — instead leading runs along the Charles River banks in collaboration with Esplanade Association's Frost Fit Program. The woman-run organization is inviting all community members to get up bright and early to congregate at the Flour Bakery location on Beacon Hill beforehand. Those interested in getting their blood pumping can register for the run at the Esplanade Association's March 1, 8 a.m. 209 Cambridge St. CELEBRATE CINEMA This year's Academy Awards are especially compelling due to the March 2, 6:30 p.m. 2 Corinth St. Grace Givertz will close out the Watertown Public Library's Winter Concert Series. Shedrick Pelt FREE FOLK Staying local is one of the best options for discovering new sounds without feeling the effect of the experiences on your pockets. Thankfully, there are plenty of music events in and around Boston that cost less than streaming music from home. One will take place this Sunday at the Watertown Public Library. The library's Winter Concert Series is coming to an end with a free performance by indie folk artist Grace Givertz, a 2023 City of Boston Extraordinary Women Award winner. The Boston-based artist will show off her authentic talent in a free hourlong performance of her self-made music. March 2, 2-3 p.m. 123 Main St., Watertown. Advertisement Deals & steals BOTTOMLESS BITES Instead of bottomless mimosas or margaritas, Bostonians can spend their money on deals with a bit more sustenance. Every Saturday and Sunday at Painted Burro, $25 buys you bottomless brunch, choosing from a large and varied menu of tapas, tortas, tacos, and more. Fan favorites include the huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, and burro benedict. Saturdays & Sundays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $25. All restaurant locations. Marianna Orozco can be reached at
