Barefoots Joe

On a Tuesday night after work Barefoot Joe's, the campus coffee shop, is quiet but still has a steady stream of business. The art of students is displayed tastefully on the walls and She & Him is playing softly in the background. I have seen Barefoot Joe's much busier late at night and even mid-afternoon but at dinner time a few students lounge on the veranda talking and eating dinner. Inside, where I am seated, the female Union student who works here chats quietly with a friend about class and at a nearby table a few students are working on assignments and drinking coffee.

There is a stage at Barefoot in the middle of the floor where some up and coming local or Nashville musical acts have played. Like Brooke Waggoner or the Civil Wars. You can check out their page to see events and get a fell for the culture. The stage also provides a venue for debates, theatre and open mic nights. Since my interview back at the end of March I have felt that Barefoot Joe's was one my favorite spots on Union's campus. The soft green walls, plush leather chairs and excellent coffee provided by Gusta Java make it a nice stop to meet a friend, study or read. It is a great stop before I go into the office and a nice way to unwind after work. It is also a very important place on campus because it provides a great good place for Union's students away from the structured academic classroom and the chaotic dorm-room. I am curious how the library can learn from the atmosphere at Barefoot Joe's and potentially provide services, virtual and in person to student who choose to study at Barefoot's.