Philadelphia, PA Stella’s Cafe at Temple University’s Charles Library

Situation

As Temple University laid out plans for their new Charles Library facility, everyone amenity was considered. One of the most important library amenities is having somewhere to grab a cup of coffee to kickstart the brain. Temple turned to JJ White Inc. to complete their in-library coffeeshop as the company has a flawless track-record of retail and academic construction experience.

Challenges

The construction of the coffeeshop coincided with many other projects going along in the new library’s shell. Coffeeshop construction could not disrupt or hinder other efforts going on in the building. The project also required an aggressive schedule as the building needed to be ready for the start of the Fall 2019 semester.

Solutions

JJ White crews developed a schedule based on coinciding activities in the building to create minimal disruptions. The team wasted no time in getting to work, but first developed a thorough plan to ensure no mistakes would be made that would lead to a delay of the library’s scheduled opening.

Results

The coffeeshop, known as “Stella’s Cafe” after the University’s mascot, opened on-time and on-budget for the Fall 2019 semester. JJ White installed the stores infrastructure including lighting and plumbing. Students are now able to conveniently enjoy a cup of La Calombe brand coffee while they study in the library or while passing by en route to class.