Construction of a new cyber caf‚ that will feature nutritious food and computer technical assistance began in White Hall May 29.

The Food 4 Thought Cyber Caf‚ will provide students with a place to study, eat, relax and hang out with friends.

The caf‚ will have a wireless network, plasma screen televisions, a lounge area with comfortable seating, stand-up and sit-down tables, food and an area where students can bring their computers for technical problems and support, said Greta Siler, co-designer of the cyber caf‚.

“The caf‚ is going to be comparable to the Genius Bar in Apple computer stores,” said Siler, a nutrition and dietetics instructor in the School of Family and Consumer Studies.

With a unique food menu, the White Hall cyber caf‚ will be different from the cyber caf‚ in the Student Center, said Tom Euclide, director of the Office of the University Architect.

The cafe will be finished by mid-August, Euclide said. The construction will cost $115,000.

“The idea of building a caf‚ in White Hall has been around for a couple of years, but the request to consider the current location was made about 12 months ago,” Euclide said.

The caf‚ will be built where rooms 212 and 213 were. The wall and ceiling between the rooms will be torn down and an opening will be cut into the second floor hallway. Workers will install tile, carpet, a new ceiling, lights, windows and a service counter designed for future food service.

The space will fit about 40 people.

“I think the caf‚ will give White Hall a more positive outlook and atmosphere,” said Amanda Bova, a senior middle childhood education major. “I will use the caf‚ for studying purposes or to grab a coffee or something small to eat while waiting for class.”

Euclide said the caf‚ will be convenient for students.

“They will have a nicer place to relax in the building,” he said.

“I think there are only positive things that can come of the education department expanding on the building,” Bova said.

Contact buildings and transportation reporter Sarah Colvin at [email protected].