Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Library kitchen to get expert look
Study would determine logistics, budget, offerings, board hears
FAYETTEVILLE — It will take someone with culinary expertise to explore the possibilities of a teaching kitchen at the expanded library, board members heard Monday.
The basic idea for the kitchen is set, Executive Director David Johnson said. Brightwater will host a culinary program for high school students. Visitors will be able to sit down at the deli. Culinary courses also will be offered to people.
A commissioned study will spell out operational logistics, what equipment and space is needed, staffing recommendations and regulatory and budgeting requirements.
Estimated cost of the study is $19,500, and would be paid for through a grant with the Northwest Arkansas Economic Development District, Johnson said.
“There are a lot of hobbyist and neat things to do, but it also could be a hub for training kitchen staff and people so they can go right into the workforce,” he said. “There may also be people who want to change careers.”
The idea has sparked interest
from local restaurant owners, Johnson said. People interested in kitchen or front-of-house work would be able take their learning experience straight to the workforce, he said.
A consultant also would recommend how to implement a closed-loop food system, with food grown on-site, Johnson said.
Additionally, aspiring chefs could use the space to experiment with their own creations, he said.
The study will help pin down what kinds of classes could be offered, what the prices should be at the deli to have an affordable menu while covering costs and the hours for the different types of uses, Johnson said.
“It’s just trying to bring in the experts to help guide some of those ancillary decisions,” he said.