Frugal Family Hits the Local Libraries!

Despite the fact that June has been feeling a little bit like October with some chilly, rainy days, we know that the Frugal Family will eventually need to beat intense summer heat. But in our search for air-conditioned and educational havens from the heat, we need to look for opportunities on the cheap.

 - 433 Centre St. in Jamaica Plain

The , at 433 Centre St. in Jamaica Plain, has a great program each Wednesday for small children and their parents or caretakers. At 10:30 A.M. kids can pop by the library, at no cost, and enjoy a family-themed short movie. Movies typically run about 45 minutes, and it’s a great way for the little ones to make new friends and see new flicks. It also provides an opportunity for the adults to revisit some of their own cinematic favorites from childhood.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy when the band Kori Zina takes the stage at the Connolly Branch Library on June 20 at 6 p.m.  will feature both contemporary and traditional African music that promises to keep all members of the Frugal Family dancing – which is perfect because the library is air conditioned. The concert is free and open to the public. 

– 31 Pleasant St., Brookline

The Coolidge Corner Branch of the Brookline Public Library, at 31 Pleasant St. in Brookline, has a terrific bargain for senior members of the Frugal Family. offers a fun movie break from the high temperatures. On June 30, the library will be screening “Calendar Girls,” starring Helen Mirren, Julie Walters and Penelope Wilton. Refreshments are available at 1 p.m., and the movie begins at 1:30. The event is free of charge.

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There’s nothing like a good mystery, and the  knows it. Mystery lovers can visit the main library conference room on the third Tuesday of the month at noon. Bring a lunch and get ready to discuss the latest suspenseful read. On June 21, the discussion will be on Margery Allingham’s, “More Work for the Undertaker.”

– 312 Harvard St., Brookline

Magic Beans, at 312 Harvard St. in Brookline, is giving us yet another reason to drop by. Sure, they have lovely toys for the little members of the Frugal Family, educational games, clothing and many other necessities. But  is a great cherry on top of this sundae. This event takes place each Tuesday at 3 p.m., is free of charge and is a wonderful way to ease into a summer week.

[Correction Sun 2:03 - Added a missing section heading, corrected the address for the CC Branch.]