This News is Piping Hot!

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.”

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, including FAQs, and a link to the RFP, check out Something New is Brewing on our website!