Lincoln, Neb. – The University of Nebraska‑Lincoln (UNL) is set to replace the final Dunkin’ Donuts on campus with a university‑run café slated to open in early 2027. The change will take place in the Adele Hall Learning Commons of the UNL Libraries, where the coffee shop has been a familiar stop for students.
University partnership drives the transition
Liz Lorang, dean of University Libraries, explained that the move comes from a new partnership with University Dining Services. “We are excited for the Libraries to align with the innovative models Dining Services is implementing across the campus in residence halls, student unions and academic buildings,” Lorang said.
The university’s own dining operation will assume control of the space, giving the campus greater local control over the food‑service experience. Lorang highlighted several benefits: the café will keep revenue within the university, expand menu choices, and allow students to use their meal‑plan dollars at the new location.
What the new café will offer
While specific menu details have not yet been released, university officials indicated that the café will feature a broader selection of fresh‑made items, including healthier breakfast and lunch options. The shift is intended to better serve the diverse needs of students, faculty, and staff who frequent the learning commons.
Because the café will be operated by University Dining Services, students will be able to charge purchases to their existing meal plans, a convenience not always available at off‑campus or franchised locations. This aligns with UNL’s broader goal of keeping more of the campus economy under university stewardship.
Community response
Students and faculty have expressed mixed feelings about the change. Some longtime patrons miss the familiarity of Dunkin’ Donuts, while others welcome the prospect of a locally managed café that can adapt more quickly to campus needs. The university has invited feedback through a short survey that will be distributed later this fall.
University officials stress that the transition will be seamless, with the Dunkin’ location scheduled to close before the new café opens. No interruption to coffee service is expected, as a temporary pop‑up stand will provide beverages during the renovation period.
Broader implications for campus dining
This move reflects a growing trend among higher‑education institutions to bring food‑service operations in‑house. By doing so, universities can better align dining options with institutional values, such as supporting local suppliers, offering nutritionally balanced meals, and ensuring that revenue supports campus programs.
UNL’s decision also underscores the importance of student‑centered planning. By giving students the ability to use meal‑plan dollars at the new café, the university removes a financial barrier and reinforces the principle that campus resources should serve the community that funds them.
Looking ahead
The university plans to hold a ribbon‑cutting ceremony in early 2027, inviting students, faculty, and local community members to celebrate the new café’s opening. As the transition unfolds, UNL will monitor student satisfaction and adjust offerings as needed to ensure the café meets the evolving preferences of the campus community.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
