The UNK student body has seen numerous changes to campus since the chaos that was the spring of 2020. Buildings were torn down, others constructed, a major renovation and name change of what we fondly call “the caf.” But there is one aspect of UNK dining that has not been resurrected: Java Notes. 

To first and second-year UNK students, Java Notes is the subject of legend that now sits dark and empty, blending into the hallway that connects the art wing to the rest of the Fine Arts Building. 

Before that fateful spring, students may remember visiting Java Notes for a warm bowl of soup served by a friendly face on a cold day; just what busy fine arts students need. Others might remember grabbing their morning coffee on their way through the building to a class at the College of Education. 

Java Notes was a crucial element to so many students’ daily lives. It offered a food option not in the Nebraskan Student Union or Louie’s Diner – both hearty walks from the FAB. The food and drinks were made fresh with care, and the staff knew students by name.  

Fine arts students often arrive at the building early in the morning to begin practicing and have back-to-back classes until well into the evening. A dining option in the building ensured those students had the option to eat a balanced breakfast and/or lunch that ¹they may not have gotten otherwise.

Java Notes also played a part in fostering community in the FAB. The centralized hub offered students the chance to socialize and get to know their peers in their classes rather than just passing by. It also offered unique items that helped promote Loper pride, like the Loperccino.

Java Notes also catered to students outside of the FAB. Students don’t always have the time to walk all the way to the Starbucks in the NSU for coffee or breakfast. Java Notes offered a convenient stop on the way to or from class in that area of campus. 

Java Notes was more easily accessible to students studying in the library or passing through to a class in the Health and Sports Center. The extra option was especially convenient during harsh weather, making food more accessible than braving the cold.

It has been over two years since Java Notes has been in operation. The last two classes of incoming students missed out on the opportunities and community Java Notes provided the upperclassmen. 

West Center’s Brewed Awakening has seen a full renovation. Can we find funds to bring back Java Notes? Now that that portion of campus has been taken care of, what about students’ dining needs in middle of campus? 

However, there may still be hope, as Java Notes hasn’t been removed from Sodexo’s UNK Dining website. Until the beloved dining service can be revived, the website states that it is closed until further notice.