PROPOSALS DUE: MONDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2026, AT 5:30 P.M.
Late proposals and emailed submissions will not be accepted.
No rent will be charged to the selected operator.
Electricity, water, sewer, trash service, and Wi-Fi are provided.
Approximately 225 square feet with plumbing, electrical service, cabinetry, sinks, and a service counter.
The Library welcomed 215,635 visitors in 2025—nearly 600 visits per day.
The Joplin Public Library is seeking an experienced Vendor/Operator to equip and operate a coffee shop inside the Library at 1901 E. 20th Street in Joplin, Missouri.
The Library is a community gathering place serving children, teens, adults, families, students, and local organizations. It includes public computers and Wi-Fi, study and community rooms, local history resources, passport services, outdoor patios, and spaces for public programs and events.
The selected operator should share the Library’s commitment to excellent customer service and be willing to support Library programs and special events.
The complete RFP contains the controlling terms, responsibilities, qualifications, evaluation criteria, and submission requirements for this opportunity.
PDF Document – 6 pages
Additional responsibilities and operating conditions are contained in the complete Request for Proposal.
The Library is seeking an established coffee shop operator with the experience and financial capacity to successfully launch and sustain this location.
Operators should review the complete RFP before determining their eligibility or preparing a proposal.
Proposals may not exceed 20 pages, including the introduction letter and references. Each proposal should address all seven areas below.
Describe the company’s history and demonstrate at least five years of experience operating a coffee shop.
Provide proposed staffing, hours of operation, and ideas for supporting Library programs and events.
Provide the proposed menu and prices, including any special pricing planned for Library employees, programs, or events.
Provide a detailed equipment list and a sketch showing how the space would be arranged. Identify any additional electrical or infrastructure requirements.
ATTN: Jeana Gockley, Library Director
Joplin Public Library
1901 E. 20th Street
Joplin, MO 64804
Deadline:
Monday, October 26, 2026
No later than 5:30 p.m.
Complete proposals will be evaluated using the following 100-point scoring system.
Percentages shown correspond to the points available in each evaluation category.
Monday, September 28, 2026
3:30–5:30 p.m.
Joplin Public Library
1901 E. 20th Street
Joplin, MO 64804
Interested operators may view the space and ask questions about the RFP package.
Library Director
jgockley@joplinpubliclibrary.org
417-623-7953
Facilities & IT Manager
jkelly@joplinpubliclibrary.org
417-623-7953
1901 East 20th Street
Joplin, MO 64804
Phone: 417-623-7953
