Here is a COVID-19 update for Tuesday, May 12.

Please also be sure to check somervillema.gov/covid19 for information and resources that are updated frequently.

City buildings will remain closed to the public until at least Monday, June 1. Further delays are possible, and we will share updates as we continue to monitor the COVID-19 crisis.

Separate meetings will be held for the general public, seniors, parents, youth, and Spanish speakers. Go to www.somervillema.gov/virtualtownhall for the full schedule and to attend these forums.  The first one is for seniors and takes place from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 12.

Are you interested in starting a garden? Already have one, but want to take it to the next level?

The Somerville Public Library and Green City Growers have partnered to offer gardening workshops over nine Saturdays this season.

— Photo © Meena Kumar / @mekudesigns

Today many parents are seeking ways to keep their kids engaged and learning beyond the schoolwork remotely assigned by teachers.

Many of the team members at Pilot Pen are parents, too. Below, they share some fun and creative ways you can use the power of the written word to help create special moments for kids while imparting valuable lessons.

Launches 10,000 mask drive for homemade cloth masks – distribution will prioritize seniors and other vulnerable populations

Starting this week, the City of Somerville will be distributing 100,000 civilian three-ply masks with a focus on getting masks to people most vulnerable to COVID-19. Because these masks can only be reused a limited number of times, the city is also putting out a call for donated cloth masks that can also be distributed to residents.

Normally there is an editorial from Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone in this space, but this week the city is instead sharing important information and updates about COVID-19.

 City Buildings to Remain Closed and Street Sweeping Delayed Until May 18

City buildings will remain closed to the public until at least May 18 and the beginning of street sweeping will be delayed until at least May 18. Further delays in reopening city buildings and starting street sweeping are possible and updates will be provided as they are available. You can still access many services through the city’s website (www.somervillema.gov) or by calling 311. More information on how to access services is available under the “City Services Status” tab on www.somervillema.gov/coronavirus.