Classic black shelving, carefully picked colors, and cozy nooks provide an appealing background for a new element in Cuba’s retail scene. Cubans can now indulge in America’s passion for specialty coffees, eat decadent desserts, find new reading material, and surf the Internet in the welcoming atmosphere of one of the city’s true historical buildings.

Mary Miller, who runs the business, hopes to offer something for everyone, including gift certificates.

An avid reader all of her life, she said, “I think reading is great for exercising the mind, which is as important as exercising the body. I want to provide programs that encourage others to read, especially children.”

Java.net sells new bestsellers, hardcover books, and paperbacks, as well as used books.  

“Our software will allow customers to bring in their good used books and to set up an account to purchase used books with credit received,” said Miller.  

Books can be custom ordered for individuals. As part of her book business, Miller would like to host book clubs, reading groups, story hours for young children, and book signings.

Small groups can also hold their meetings at the coffee shop. Miller has already booked the Tri-C Club’s annual book club meeting at Java.net.

The business has on-site computers, or customers can bring in their own laptops and access high speed wi-fi with a purchase of one item, whether it is a drink or book. Students can do research, travelers can access their e-mail, or customers can surf the Internet. Black and white and color copying and faxing is also available.

The gift selection includes candles, pictures, and Christian gifts for baptisms and first communions. This department will grow and change according to the needs of the community. In the future, Miller would also like to provide unique gifts by displaying and selling the works of local artists.

The new enterprise offers Kaldi’s Coffee. This imported coffee is roasted at the Kaldi’s warehouse in St. Louis. Miller received training from Kaldi’s in St. Louis, and the coffeemaker’s employees will visit Cuba on January 13 to provide more barista training. A barista is one who sells coffee-based drinks at a coffee bar.

“We will sell specialty drinks such as Latte, Cappuccino, Espresso, iced coffee drinks, hot chocolate, and teas,” stated Miller. Muffins, cookies, cheesecake, and other tempting desserts accompany coffee offerings.

A Coffee Club allows customers to buy five drinks and get a sixth one free. By spring, a drive-through window will offer convenience for those on the go.

Pound packages of this special coffee are available to take home or give as a gift, and true to the building’s history, Coca-Cola fountain drinks make an appearance.

The former Coca-Cola Warehouse is being remodeled with an eye to its history. The building, built of cinder block and brick in the 1939-1942 time period, served as a warehouse satellite for St. Louis.

Paul Doyan was the original Coke distributor/driver for the area. Years later, Jim Nelson was the Coke truck driver. In the 1970s, the Dettler family had a small engine repair business. In the 1980s, the building housed the Warehouse Restaurant owned by the Kent family. The last business, the Treasure Trove owned by Norma Kent, was a popular spot for those searching for unique collectibles and antiques.

Mary and Joe Miller have the original Coca-Cola Warehouse sign and plan to restore it and hang it on the east end of the building, above the front porch. Future plans include two indoor murals in 2008. One mural will be of Paul Doyan and his Coca-Cola truck, and another mural will be of Jim Nelson and his truck. Vintage photographs of the two men and their trucks will be key to the painting designs.

The Millers chose the building because of its spaciousness, plentiful parking, and the lot, which runs between Highway 19 and Oak Hill Avenue and allows for good traffic flow. Next spring they plan to pave the rear parking lot and develop an outdoor patio.

The Millers would like to offer a Farmer’s Market and outdoor events when their exterior addition is developed. The old building and its location will be taking on another phase of development in the upcoming months, but they will be steeped in a continuing sense of community.

The Miller family is the latest of another generation of Cubans putting down their business roots in Cuba. The phenomenon seems to be for Cuba’s young people to graduate, leave the area, but then later return to raise their families and open small businesses.  

Mary addressed this when she said, “I think people want to raise their children in growing, caring communities, and that is why we return home. I want to give something back to the community by providing a fun place for people, young and old, to congregate with their friends.”

Java.net’s hours are Tuesday through Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Special hours are available for certain events. Java.net’s number is 573-4442 and the website is www.java-netbooks.com.