Whether it’s a comforting cup of joe on a brisk morning or an iced latte to beat the summer heat, coffee is a drink that is enjoyed by millions all over the world. One new staff member at the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) finds it especially addicting. Our recently-hired Circulation Department manager at the Eola Road Branch, Lindsay Gollinger, holds the title of Coffee Master (yes, that’s an actual title) from her previous job experience and has agreed to share her knowledge with the coffee-lovers of Aurora. Lindsay will give a presentation Thursday, Feb. 16 at For the Love of Coffee, a program at the Eola Road Branch on finding favorite brew and how to make it at home.
Coffee and books both provide moments of pleasure and relaxation, and when combined, they make for the perfect indulgence. Perhaps that’s why Lindsay found herself drawn to a new career in the Library world. Over the last 10 years, she has found herself spending a great deal of time getting to know the world of coffee.
“To say coffee ruled my life for the last 10 years is a bit of an understatement,” Gollinger said with a laugh. “My team did coffee tastings weekly and sometimes daily. I earned the title of Coffee Master after undergoing a month-long training on the origins of coffee and how it has been used for thousands of years. My store hosted the Barista Championships for three years in a row where the best baristas competed for awards such as best knowledge and understanding of coffee, best latte art, and best tasting prepared.”
When Library staff members learned about Lindsay’s background, they encouraged her to be host to a program for our customers and she’s looking forward to doing so.
At this program, attendees will learn that a great cup of coffee doesn’t have to come with a great price tag. Those attendng can learn how to choose quality coffee from any grocery store and find the type that’s best for each person.
Do you like it hot or cold? Light roast, or dark roast? Those in attendance can taste samples and find out! Use tools you already have in your home to brew the best coffee possible. Participants will receive a brief history of coffee and its significance over time. Did you know 19th Century composer Beethoven counted out exactly 60 coffee beans for his daily cup? Whether you are already a coffee-lover or want to learn more about coffee, you’ll be sure to leave the presentation with a new understanding of this every-day drink.
The Eola Road Branch program, For the Love of Coffee, will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16 in the Large Meeting Room. Those craving more caffeinated facts can check out books in the Library’s collection such as The Coffee Book by Anette Moldvaer, Coffee: A Comprehensive Guide to the Bean, the Beverage, and the Industry, edited by Robert W. Thurston, and Coffee and Espresso: Make Your Favorite Drinks at Home by Tanja Dusy. For more information about this Library event and more, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events, or contact us at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.