It may sound high maintenance, but who really has time to walk all the way to Huden or Fireside every time they need something to eat or drink?  

Of course, Sodexo workers wanted Coffee Cottage to stay open just as much as the next person – and toiled to do so. A compiling net loss and short staffing closed the doors of the Cottage multiple times last semester, followed by a last attempt to save the establishment.  

Yet, the changes in decor and to the menu didn’t reel in enough students to save it, hence the announcement of its permanent closure in early August.  

It’s shocking how such a popular spot on campus could struggle financially. On an average day, with professors grabbing coffee or students lounging around inside or out on the picnic tables (with regular visits from Max the cat), it looked quite successful. 

But they had been struggling throughout recent years, hence their closure for weeks straight in 2022 and for the entire Fall ‘23 semester.

Now, it’s one less dining option, one less available space in the community, and one heck of a lot more work for Huden and Fireside workers (who already work hard enough). For Fireside, recovering from the recent loss of long-time leader Jim Stewart among other staff was already enough to handle. 

Factoring in the recent decrease of library hours due to a cut to the Evening Supervisor position, students need more spaces to just be. Yes, students frequented the Cottage for its great menu, but many also say they just enjoyed the atmosphere. 

It was the perfect place do homework, chat with friends, or enjoy a moment away from class. It was cozy and inviting, much different than the other work-focused spots on campus. 

Students were, however, considered in the aftermath. 

Popular Coffee Cottage items and meal deals were added to Fireside, and the space is being evaluated for how it can be used to serve students. One idea has been for student programming with food provided by Sodexo, indicated by Dean of Students Jamia Danzy, but options remain open. 

Whatever it ends up being used for, it’s vital to gain student input and help make up for what was lost.

In the meantime, the first floor of the Moriarty House remains vacant, quiet except for the gasps of shock from those who didn’t know their favorite coffee and sandwich place closed.