More Than Just Books

One day I dropped by the main branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, planning to guiltily return the book I had failed to read before hanging out in Prospect Park. I never made it into the sunshine, though—just as I was about to leave, a voice from the loudspeaker announced that Michael Cunningham, author of the Hours, was giving a free reading from his new book.

Of course libraries are great for books, but the reading that day, an intimate talk where empty seats abounded, reminded me that they’re also an amazing and underutilized resource for other forms of entertainment. The thrifty New Yorker will find high quality art exhibits, music, movies, classes, and writing workshops all for a grand total of zero dollars.

Mardi Movies

Tuesdays aren’t normally my favorite day of the week (especially when weather.com tells me that it feels like -6 degrees out there), but Cobble Hill Cinema has stepped in and made the night something I actually look forward to. Their $6 ticket special is the best movie deal I’ve found in New York.

On both Tuesdays and Thursdays, all seven of their smart, interesting films are just $6. Tonight’s picks include The Last King of Scotland, Children of Men, and Avenue Montaigne. All are movies I’ve been meaning to catch. Sometimes films come out a week or two later at Cobble Hill Cinema than at other theaters, but for the price, I’m certainly willing to wait.

And, despite the deal, the movie I’ve wanted to see has never been sold out.

The first showing of each movie on Saturday and Sunday is also just $6.

Cobble Hill Cinema is located at 265 Court Street in Brooklyn, near the F and G trains at Bergen Street.