SNOW HILL — Opening a coffee shop in a library may not be a unique idea, but it’s a new concept for the Neuse Regional Library system.
The Greene County Friends of the Library are anticipating opening the Refreshment Corner at the Greene County Library on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard on Monday.
The new Corner will be operated by volunteers on a trial basis, said Peggy Greene, chairwoman of the Greene County Library Board and member of the FOL board.
“It is fast becoming a trend,” she said, “that libraries and bookstores are opening a small area where patrons can purchase a beverage and snack while they enjoy reading magazines, newspapers or their favorite book.”
The Corner overlooks the scenic landscaping next to and behind the library at the county complex building. Patrons can relax in comfy chairs in a designated section of the library to sip coffee, tea or soft drinks and enjoy some snacks while reading.
“We’re starting out with almost no expense to us,” Greene said.
The counter, donated by Snow Hill town officials, is half of the counter that stood in the town hall before the office was recently remodeled. Donations by Sticks and More, M.T. Sugg Construction and County Commissioner Jack Edmondson and his wife supported finishing off the cut end of the counter and supplying a small refrigerator, refreshments and supplies.
The Corner will feature Green Mountain and Keurig individual cup coffees in regular, flavored and decaffeinated.
“The monies we make here,” said Connie Miller, vice president of the Greene County FOL and member of the library board, “turns around and goes right back into the library, which will benefit the public again.”
It is hoped the proceeds will bring more educational and cultural programs to the library, as well as a second children’s computer — children frequently line up to use the one child’s computer at the library, Greene said.
Greene said the success of the Corner will depend on the support of the FOL and other volunteers.
“We hope some of the kids that need community service will help us man the station,” she said.
The Refreshment Corner is expected to be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but hours will be adjusted according to public demand.
Margaret Fisher can be reached at 252-559-1082 or Margaret.Fisher@Kinston.com. Follow her on Twitter @MargaretFishr.