Once a mini-museum showcasing 107 years of Biola University’s history, The Heritage Room has now been configured into a hot-spot for students — The Heritage Cafe. Still featuring memorabilia and photography from Biola’s history, the new cafe makes the artifacts more accessible to students and visitors.

Located in Biola’s library, The Heritage Cafe provides a close venue for students to eat when studying at the library. The new cafe was made possible through a generous donation from Bon Appetit and parent company, Compass Group.

Construction began in late December, shortly after students left for Christmas break, to renovate The Heritage Room, a museum-like exhibit created and opened during Biola’s centennial year. The Heritage Cafe opened for business on Friday, April 17, 2015.

The Heritage Cafe menu differs from other on-campus eateries, offering fresh-squeezed juices, acai bowls and smoothies, in addition to Starbucks coffee and products. The wall-to-wall shelves in the cafe feature artifacts from Biola’s history reflecting Biola’s purpose and mission.

“The Heritage Cafe will provide another enjoyable campus gathering spot for the Biola community members to meet, enjoy some food, fellowship, and study,” said Don Sims, senior director of auxiliary services.

The cafe’s expanded seating area, both in and outside the library, provides a new space on campus for students to study, eat or socialize.

The Heritage Cafe's hours of operation will parallel the hours of the library with some exceptions.

A grand opening celebration for the cafe will occur on May 6, 2015 at 2:30 p.m.

Written by Kayla Joy Mele, iBiola reporter. For more information, contact Jenna Loumagne, media relations specialist, at 562.777.4061 or jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.