“As a group, we selected coffee services in libraries as the issue of our final presentation for the Hypatia Conference. We investigated the general history of coffee and coffeehouses, the history of the coffee service trend, implementation of the coffee concept, surveyed listservs regarding coffee shops in libraries, the pros and cons of coffee shops in libraries, and the cultural implications.”

Good to the Last Drop: Dimensions and Cultural Implications of Coffee Service in Libraries

The “cozying” of libraries into well-stocked lounges instead of places of learning and business can wind up having a lot of effects on the future. While patron-use may increase, it might not be the kind of use intended (i.e. the library as free day-care). It could also make it more difficult to get funding. “Why should tax dollars go to supporting a coffe bar (ignoring what the bar is attached to)?” on the other hand, if you don’t offer what people want, they won’t use your services.

Something to watch out for.