(Joplin, MO) – Some new may soon be brewing at the Joplin Public Library.
As the Library approaches the 10-year anniversary of its current building, the Joplin Public Library is exploring the possibility of adding a coffee shop inside the Library–creating another way for people to connect, learn, explore and build community.
“The Joplin Public Library has always been about more than books,” said Jeana Gockley, Library Director. “People come here every day to learn, attend programs, use technology and simply spend time together. A coffee shop could add another dimension to that experience and create an even more welcoming place for people to pause, connect and stay awhile.”
The idea of a coffee shop has been part of the Library’s vision for its current building since before it opened. During the Library’s pre-design process in 2015, staff met with community members through focus sessions, surveys and panel discussions to learn what residents wanted to see in a new library.
Residents shared a wide range of ideas, including large meeting spaces, dedicated areas for youth, a Makerspace, plenty of seating and a light-filled layout. Among those ideas was a coffee shop—something community members said they would like to see included in the Library.
Now, nearly a decade after the building opened, the Library is exploring whether that long-discussed idea could become a reality.
To explore the opportunity, the Library is seeking an experienced coffee shop vendor through a Request for Proposal (RFP). The selected vendor would operate the coffee shop independently; the Library would not operate the business, and Library employees would not be responsible for staffing or day-to-day coffee shop operations.
Instead, the Library is looking for an operator with the experience, concept and operational expertise to provide a high-quality coffee shop experience while becoming part of the Library’s vibrant community.
For more information, or to view the RFP, visit the library’s website here or contact Lori Crockett by phone at 417.623.7953 or lcrockett@joplinpubliclibrary.org.
About Joplin Public Library:
Since 1902, JPL has been fulfilling the information needs of citizens of Joplin and the surrounding community. JPL opens tomorrow’s doors today through diverse opportunities to learn, create, explore, and have fun.
References:
Lori Crockett, PR and Marketing Assistant
Joplin Public Library
417.623.7953, ext. 1019
Jeana Gockley, Library Director
Joplin Public Library
417.623.7953
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