Long-awaited library cafe opens for business

There's new coffee shop at Elgin's Gail Borden Library and officials definitely believe "the cup" is half-full.

La Tazza, which means "the cup" in Italian, served its up its first morning brew Tuesday much to the delight of loyal patrons.

It was five-year wait for patrons and officials at the library, which was built with room for a cafe or coffee shop.

"I'm here once a week. I'm glad they opened the coffee shop," said Elgin resident Cindy Clark. "It adds to the library."

La Tazza serves coffee, tea, sandwiches, pasta, soups, salads, pastries and more in a 2,000-square-foot vending area near the main entrance of the library, 270 N. Grove Ave.

Patrons may bring their drinks inside the library, but they must be covered with a plastic cap.

Officials say the cafe is a work in progress. Menu items are still being added and decorating of the area is ongoing.

"It's going to improve and improve and improve," said Carole Medale, the library's executive director. "We think of the library as a destination. We also think of this as a destination."

Valerie Valentino, the cafe director, noted La Tazza will offer 59-cent coffee daily for seniors.

Valentino, an Elgin resident, recalled visiting the library to do some research and stepped into the then-vacant vending area to take a phone call.

"I took one look at the space and envisioned La Tazza cafe," she said.

A formal grand opening is planned for Nov. 21 and 22. Hours are: 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The cafe also has free Wi-Fi.

Heido Webb, a 12-year Elgin resident, bought two cups Tuesday morning.

"That was actually surprising to me," she said of the new facility. "I've seen the space here before and thought anything would be good there. The food selection looks good, too."