EDITORIAL

It’s not an entirely new concept, but the Newport Beach Central

Library may be offering another perk on top of the joys of reading to

attract customers. Though food and drinks are currently restricted from

entering the library, coffee may somehow become the exception to that

rule, at least to a certain point.

In coming up with a vision for the library, officials broached the

idea of adding a coffee kiosk to the mix of books, magazines, newspapers

and video tapes. They’re still not entirely hip on allowing people to sip

their coffee while browsing through their Grisham, Thoreau and Twain,

though. Could smudge a little.

But adding coffee to libraries seems a logical move in following the

same trend occurring at national bookstore chains. The trend has resulted

in the consolidation of meeting spots. For centuries, people have met

over tea and coffee. They’ve also gathered at libraries. It only seems

like a perfect fit. Just don’t spill, and keep the decibel level at a

minimum.

But why stop there? Libraries nationwide compliment their coffee with

other amenities. They add used book stores. They offer bagels and

sandwiches. They feature gift shops. They boast fireplaces for fireside

reading. They sell smoothies. Candy, cookies and pizza would also make

tasty additions.

Or perhaps libraries should simply be built next to shopping malls.

That might do the trick in offering a vast array of amenities.

Nonetheless, a coffee kiosk -- at the minimum -- would enhance an

already well-stocked library. In a world where there are many other

mediums to divert one’s attention from reading a good old fashioned

novella, it would be wise to offer a bit more, whether in the form of a

coffee shop or a bagel store.

Even wiser would be profiting from such a venture. Libraries that

allow such businesses to operate within its building should require that

a certain percentage -- something between 3% and 5% sounds legit --

return to the libraries. Such funding can easily come in handy at a

publicly-run venue.

So bring on the coffee and keep them coming. And, perhaps every once

in a while, doughnuts will be on the house.