(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – School’s out for summer, and the fun and summer activities are just getting started at Madison Public Library. Free weekly movies now are airing on Wednesday afternoons.

The movie series is shown each Wednesday from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. The family-friendly movies even include free popcorn and lemonade, Youth Services Librarian Mandy Pinyan said.

The movies “can beat the summer heat and give children and families the opportunity to check out the other fun and free activities the library offers,” Pinyan said. “Since movies are subject to change without notice based on DVD availability, we aren’t publishing a list far in advance. We’ll post weekly flyers in the branch. Call ahead for specific information to 256-461-0046.”

The children’s movies have a rating of “G” and “PG.” “Teen movies are shown once a month on Tuesdays at 6 p.m.,” Pinyan said. “These can be ‘PG,’ ‘PG-13’ or, in the case of one of our black & white film fests, ‘NR’ (not rated).”

The movies are screened in the community meeting room to allow adequate space and seating and access to the library’s projector screen.

Community feedback has been positive about the movie series. “Anything free is certainly appreciated. We get a lot of thanks from parents and caregivers. An afternoon snack is always a hit,” Pinyan said.

“It’s air-conditioned, it’s a great way to introduce kids to the library and it’s free,” Pinyan said.

In another summer activity, the library is offering classes in American Mah Jongg, the craze that’s sweeping public libraries across the country, branch manager Sarah Sledge said. Beginner classes start June 7 from 1 to 3 p.m.

“Instructors C.G. and Ursula are excited to share this challenging yet relaxing form of entertainment,” Sledge said. For more information about Mah Jongg, email to ssledge@hmcpl.org.

Madison Public Library is located at 130 Plaza Blvd. Call 256-461-0046 or visit madison@hmcpl.org and Facebook/MPLYouthServices.