It looks like library goers will have to wait even longer for the Bookmark Caf+â-¬ to be operational, as problems with delivery of refrigerated carts continue to delay its opening
Ball State University is one of half a dozen universities having problems receiving carts from Mobile Solutions Foodservices Inc. in Colorado, a delay that has postponed the caf+â-¬ opening several months.
Undisclosed problems with the contracted company have prevented the shipment.
President and founder Bruce Robertson declined to comment on the situation when contacted.
The company specializes in creating custom food service carts and kiosks, and has examples made for universities, ball parks and convention centers on its Web site.
Liz Poore, assistant director of Residence Hall Dining Services, said Ball State had no intention of taking legal action, and is choosing to continue waiting on delivery. The carts are not expected to arrive until after Thanksgiving, she said. The caf+â-¬ was originally planned to open at the start of Fall Semester.
"I really don't believe we will have them before the week of Thanksgiving and hopefully we can get running sometime before Christmas break," Poore said.
The university has not lost any money on this deal because the agreement was to pay when Ball State received the carts.
Ball State is not the only university having problems with Mobile Solutions. Duke University recently placed an order of refrigerated carts, and is having similar problems, James Wulforst, director of Duke Dining, said. The agreement that Duke made with Mobile Solutions had the university pay up-front, costing it $100,000. Lawyers on behalf of Duke are working toward either a getting a full refund of amount paid, or to finally receive the shipment, which will be two months late at best, he said.
"Its horrible," he said. "I had a lot of confidence and faith in them to deliver the carts as described, and the fact that no carts are here and we had to pursue legal action is unfortunate, I don't know how anybody can do business that way."
Poore said she is frustrated about the matter, but is excited about the eventual opening, as everything else that needs to be completed before the caf+â-¬ can open has been addressed. Arthur Hafner, dean of University Libraries at Ball State, said he is also excited for it to open.
"I am eagerly awaiting the opening of the caf+â-¬," Hafner said. "The space looks terrific and the hours are nice."
The new coffee shop will feature a variety of baked goods, soups, salads, sandwiches, and, of course, coffee - several months behind schedule.
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