Tha Corn Man Cafe Opens at Central Library on January 26

UPDATE: Due to logistical concerns, Central Library will postpone Tha Corn Man Cafe's grand opening. We will open the cafe to the public at a later date.

The Indianapolis Public Library is thrilled to announce Tha Corn Man Cafe, a new cafe space coming to Central Library on January 26, 2024. The Cafe promises to tantalize taste buds with an eclectic menu featuring breakfast sandwiches, salads, subs, soups, street corn, pastries, and a variety of refreshing drinks. A grand opening celebration will take place between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. During the grand opening, the public will receive a free drink with purchase.

The Cafe will be operated by Timmy Campbell, a local chef and food truck owner.

“Before I had my food truck, I was at the Marion County Fair with my canopy and grill making it happen,” said Campbell. “I got advice from the health department, got a trailer, and got it customized and approved. I felt so proud of myself. Most people would have moved on to doing something else, but I visualized myself doing this. This was my dream, and I couldn't give it up or move on.”

Campbell said that while his business started with street corn, he expanded to selling pastries and drinks. He visited Central Library often to utilize the printers and noticed that the cafe had closed. Campbell walked up to the front desk and inquired about taking over the space, and The Library invited him to share samples of his food.

“I brought some street corn, brought some Angus dogs and sausage, brownies, and cheesecake. They were loving it!” Campbell said. “When my cafe opens, I want people to come in and spend time at The Library like they do at Starbucks. I want people to know you can come in here, and it will be a good vibe, and you can take care of your business in peace and have a good bite.”

The introduction of Tha Corn Man Cafe follows the closure of Central Library's previous cafe on March 20, 2023. Elizabeth Schoettle, director of Central Library, expresses enthusiasm for the new tenant, emphasizing the positive impact Tha Corn Man Cafe will have on library patrons.

“We are excited to have the Cafe up and running at Central Library,” said Schoettle. “It adds so much value to our space here at Central, for patrons to be able to get coffee, street corn, or a sandwich while enjoying our books, programs, and services.”

The Cafe's operating hours will align with Central Library's regular schedule, closing 30 minutes before the branch concludes its daily activities. Central Library is open Monday - Tuesday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Wednesday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.