The Mount Gambier Library café may reopen if an operator can be secured to run the facility.

An expressions of interest process has commenced to run the cafe as a social enterprise.

City Council Library and Community Development manager Georgina Davison said expressions of interest was seeking an appropriate, like-minded business or organisation to run the café.

Ms Davison reported on the matter at council’s December monthly meeting.

She said the proposal was in line with council’s strategic direction and the library’s role and commitment to the community.

“A social enterprise cafe will enable training in job ready skills, qualifications, increase opportunities for individuals who otherwise may not receive such opportunities and increase the number of trained staff for the hospitality industry,” Ms Davison said.

“Council staff have undertaken research regarding social enterprises by engaging with experts.”

She said this has included councils who have partnered with social enterprises, local providers and interested parties.

Ms Davison reported the direction to operate the library café as a social enterprise would be dependent on engaging an appropriate operator.

A report will be presented to council in the new calendar year providing the outcome of the expression of interest process.

The aptly named Bookmark Café ceased serving customers in August 2021.

The café area has since been renovated as part of City Council’s $145,000 allocated in the 2021-2022 annual business plan and budget.

Renovations to upgrade the facility has now been completed.