Imagine getting your morning coffee, meeting a friend, reading a book, working on your laptop, or attending a library program—all in one place. The Joplin Public Library is more than a place to check out books. Every day, people come to the Library to learn, attend programs, use technology and spend time together.
In 2015, during pre-design meetings, Library staff met with over 23 different user groups to ask what the community envisioned as part of the new Library. These included community focus sessions, surveys and panel discussions. In addition to requesting large meeting spaces, areas for youth, a Makerspace, plenty of seating and a light-filled layout, attendees shared interest in having a coffee shop in the library.
As the 10 year anniversary of our new building approaches, JPL is exploring the idea of having a coffee shop inside the Library. We are looking for an experienced coffee shop vendor who can create a superb experience while becoming part of the Library’s vibrant community.
In 2025, we recorded over 215,000 visits to the Library. That’s a lot of opportunities to connect, learn, explore…and maybe enjoy a cup of coffee.
You May Have Questions
Why does the Library need a coffee shop?
The Joplin Public Library is more than a place to check out books. Every day, people come to the Library to learn, attend programs, use technology and spend time together. A coffee shop can add another dimension to that experience—a comfortable place to pause, connect and stay awhile.
Is the Library going into the coffee business?
No, the Library is seeking an experienced coffee shop vendor to operate the space. The coffee shop vendor—not Library employees—will be responsible for staffing and day-to-day coffee shop operations.
Why doesn’t the Library just run it?
The Library’s mission is providing library services, not operating a coffee shop. An experienced coffee shop vendor can bring the specialized staffing, equipment, product knowledge and operational expertise needed to make the space successful while allowing Library staff to focus on serving the community.
What if no proposals meet requirements?
While we’re excited about the possibility of a coffee shop at the Library, issuing an RFP is part of a process for exploring the opportunity. Our goal is to find the right coffee shop vendor—one whose experience, concept operations and approach align with the Library and our community. If we don’t receive a proposal that meets our requirements, the Library may decide not to move forward at this time.
Will Library funds be paying for the coffee shop?
The coffee shop vendor will be responsible for equipment, staffing, insurance, inventory and consumable products. The Library will provide the designated space and certain building-related services identified in the RFP, including utilities, Wi-Fi, plumbing and cabinetry. The Library’s portion will come out of the designated capital improvement fund, not the regular budget.
The space will be offered without rent. The RFP provides additional details about the operating arrangement and responsibilities of both parties.
Will the coffee shop take away library space?
Approximately 225 square feet of the vending area will be converted to coffee-shop space. Existing seating will be used. Below is what is currently in the area, and an imagined rendering of what the coffee shop may look like.
What will the hours be for the coffee shop?
This will be determined by the coffee shop vendor, with input from Library staff.
Will food/drinks be allowed around library materials?
Yes, but this is not new. Patrons already may have covered beverages and snacks throughout the building.
What will be on the menu?
Vendors will submit proposed menus and pricing as part of the RFP process. Some potential options include: beverages for all ages, pastries and muffins and pre-prepared packaged foods.
