The sweet smell of brewing coffee is comforting, calming and welcoming. This feeling is commonly associated with book stores such as Barnes & Noble. Ms. Smith, the media specialist at Westside Middle School, wanted to recreate this feeling in Westside's Media Center. Her vision came to life in October 2015 with the opening of Café Westside.

To get the initial funding for the project, Ms. Smith utilized Donor's Choose (www.donorschoose.org). Within two weeks the project was funded and the coffee makers and start-up supplies were sent to the school. The Café is open daily from 7-2 selling coffee, hot cider, hot cocoa, hot tea and flavored cappuccino. Fresh donuts are frequently available as well as an assortment of packaged snacks. Café Westside sells to the staff and students are allowed to purchase during a class visit to the media center.

Café Westside is operated by Ms. Smith, the media clerk, as well as the student library assistants. The students take orders, help prepare the drinks and deliver the drinks to teachers each morning. Westside's art teacher, Samantha George, produced a wonderful sign for the café as well as a reproducible logo. This year the café may utilize the logo on refillable café tumblers for a java discount! Café Westside has been a pleasing addition for the school promoting positive culture and climate as well as reinforcing student behavior.

The proceeds from the Café have gone towards replenishing supplies, expanding the menu and the purchase of library materials to promote reading. Ms. Smith invites you to stop by Café Westside for your favorite hot beverage and snack!