From left, owners Soraya Radmanesh, Mona Amanat and Marketing Manager Joe Shahabi Photo Cathy Tyson

After numerous delays, the Bookmark CafÇ is gearing up to finally open. With a number of adjustments to the main library taking precedence over the finish work to the CafÇ, crews are just now finishing the interior of that space. Look for it adjacent to the main entrance, fronting the courtyard off of Mt. Diablo Boulevard.

Cabinets are being installed and the electricity and water are hooked up - but there are no sinks just yet or appliances because there is no floor or shelving.

Mona Amanat and her business partner Soraya Radmanesh have been diligently moving the CafÇ forward. It's been a collaborative effort with city staff that the owners truly appreciate. The pair have researched over thirty plus coffee vendors and roasters, looking at the quality of the beans, where they come from and different types of roasting. They decided on their own custom blend, not too acidic with great aroma and taste.

The menu features a variety of book-inspired fare like the "Chicken Little" a chicken pesto sandwich, "Jungle Book" a vegetarian sandwich along with PB & J, salads, cookies, juices and snacks. Look for the Bookmark Cafe to open in late April, according to the project engineer. The Lafayette Library and Learning Center allows non-greasy food and beverages inside the building.

From the beginning the cafÇ has set out to be environmentally friendly and is using biodegradable cups and recycled products that are more expensive than standard products. While being green is important to Amanat and Radmanesh, they know their future patrons will appreciate their efforts.