The overhead is low, the inventory donated, and the labor priceless. The newest business in town is the bookstore at the South Orange Public Library.  Librarian Phyllis Kalb showed Patch the store, which is located upstairs on the main level. The room is bright, decorated with prints, and organized thoughtfully, she explained.  Kalb noted that the Friends wanted the store to be welcoming and easy-to-use. Patrons won't have to reach too high or squat too low to browse, she said.  Books are organized by subject and author on shelves at eye-level and below. Hard cover books are priced at $2 and …

Whether you want to produce produce or some fab flowers, here's what you need to get your garden going — on any budget — in two terrific towns: Before heading out to buy anything, depending on your gardening prowess your best bet may be to hit one of the local libraries in South Orange, Millburn or Maplewood for a gardening guide to steer you through all the stages you’ll need to navigate to grow a great garden, from prepping to planting to producing fruits worthy of your labor. (A quick visit to Maplewood’s Hilton Branch revealed two shelves stocked with practically every gardening niche …

It’s the first- and for many most favorite - meal of the day. Thanks to many local eateries, it’s also one of the most affordable. From hot cakes to hot coffee, bagels to breakfast sandwiches, here are some affordable, delicious options that really do put the ‘special’ in breakfast specials! Here are some scrumptious- and savvy – options in our three towns. First stop, Maplewood: Kari’s Café - Kari’s Café sits cheerfully on a bustling corner of Springfield Avenue and owner Kari Capone has been expanding her menu to fit the needs and tastes of her customers. Already a cozy go-to spot for …

Longing for warmer weather? Why not try to work a little sunny sentiment into your winter waning décor? Here are five spots to hit in our three towns for finds that fit any budget from $5 to $50 on up.South Orange:Ultimate Upholstery & Drapery- Tucked behind a small storefront on Valley, you’ll find a great resource for breathing new life into old furnishings and witnessing the transformative powers of fabrics and prints firsthand on the pieces being worked on in shop.It’s also a perfect place to give your old throw pillows a spring facelift by creating custom covers that could be as …

Finding the space to host a super soiree for a bunch of active kids can be a tough task this time of year. Here are ideas for getting the most bang for your birthday bucks in our three towns. First stop South Orange: Sparkhouse - The most terrific toy store in town also offers parties in their new space, The Super Groovy Party Room. Current themes include Egyptian Treasure Hunt Party, Volcano Party, PJ Party, Outer Space Party, 70's Disco Party. Party packages include themed décor, paper goods, a party coordinator, take home craft, activities and stories. You only have to bring food and drink…

Most of us really do put our money where our mouths are when it comes to feeding the family. Finding delicious, nutritious food that stays within a realistic budget and meets the frantic pace of modern day life isn’t always easy- but it’s always appealing! Here then are some outstanding, affordable ways to appease your family’s finances and taste buds when comes to supper. (Oh, and easily answer that charming “What’s for dinner?!” whine…) Add these five fabulous local spots to your take-out repertoire- and you’re sure to come back for seconds: First stop, Maplewood: Churrasco enjoys a cult-…

Looking to shake the snow off your boots and shake your booty in preparation for the warm weather that will (fingers crossed) soon be here? Why not ditch your dreary winter mood for some motivation - and moves - that’ll get you in the sort of shape you’ll want to flaunt come warmer temps? Our three towns are bursting with great places to shop goods and services sure to keep you in tip-top tone year-round. Here are some of the fiercest fitness deals and steals going on right now in Millburn, Maplewood and South Orange: First stop, Millburn for the Sneaker Factory: General Manager Geoff Clark …