SAME / Library Model

The SAME/Library Partnership Model was developed in collaboration with external advisors to identify the most efficient location for a SAME Café. This model leverages the following assumptions about downtown libraries:

1. Many downtown libraries have underutilized or vacant café spaces.

Libraries are known for their focus on education, community engagement, and knowledge dissemination, but they may not always have the resources or expertise to operate a full-fledged cafe. By partnering with SAME, libraries can put their underutilized spaces to good use and create a vibrant gathering place for library patrons and the broader community. This utilization of space benefits both the library, by enhancing its offerings, and SAME Café, by providing a suitable location without the burden of traditional commercial rent expenses.

2. These libraries face challenges in meeting the food security and job training needs of their patrons.

Libraries serve diverse communities, including individuals experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. By collaborating with SAME, libraries can address these pressing needs by providing access to nutritious meals through the café's Participation Model to ensure that everyone can enjoy a meal with dignity.

Through outreach programs such as Cook to Work and community partnerships, SAME emphasizes job training and provides opportunities for individuals with barriers to employment to gain valuable skills in the food service industry. By integrating job training programs into the café's operations within the library space, the partnership model contributes to local workforce development and empowers individuals to improve their economic prospects.

3. As public entities, libraries typically do not require revenue for their spaces and rely on external vendors for food service.

Public libraries typically operate as non-profit entities and often do not require revenue from their spaces to sustain their operations. They rely on external vendors to provide food services as part of their amenities. By partnering with SAME, libraries can fulfill their patrons' needs for food services while aligning with their non-revenue requirements. The Participation Model of SAME Café ensures that the food service is financially sustainable and supports its charitable mission, allowing libraries to offer a socially responsible food service without compromising their non-profit status.

By leveraging these assumptions and integrating the strengths of both SAME Café and downtown libraries, the SAME / Library Partnership Model effectively addresses multiple community needs.

It creates a symbiotic relationship that enhances the library's services, provides food security solutions, and supports job training initiatives, all while maintaining the financial viability of both entities. This innovative partnership model serves as an inspiring example of how non-profit organizations can collaborate with public institutions to create a positive and lasting impact on the communities they serve.