Concord Library Cafe to reopen in 2025, staffed by Ebenezer Mission and workers with a disability

A much-loved inner west cafe labelled a “second home” to locals will be reopening after hundreds of residents fought against its closure. See the details here.

A much-loved cafe labelled a “second home” to locals will be reopening after hundreds of residents fought its closure earlier this year.

Canada Bay Council has announced the Concord Library Cafe will open its doors again after more than 500 people signed a petition to keep the “important community space” alive.

The venue will run by local organisation Ebenezer Mission, which empowers children, youths and adults with disability.

The cafe’s closure came as a shock to many locals, including retiree Jill Hodder who had been visiting the cafe for more than 12 years, not realising how important it was to her until it closed.

“It became like a second home to me,” she said.

“I’m in wheelchair, so it was a perfect place to meet and it wasn’t until it closed that I realised the impact it had on me.

Concord Library Cafe will reopen in 2025.

“But not just me, all the people that used it, the cafe itself had become a real important community and safe space.”

The reopening has been scheduled for February, with the cafe to be staffed by workers with a disability with the goal for a more inclusive and connected community.

Canada Bay councillor Andrew Ferguson.

Canada Bay Mayor Michael Megna.

Canada Bay Mayor Michael Megna said the announcement would delight the community not only for the promise of a fantastic new cafe but the opportunity to champion inclusion and support for individuals with disabilities.

“The cafe at Concord Library will not only provide a wonderful new amenity for visitors but will also stand as a symbol of inclusivity and community spirit,” he said.

“Ebenezer Mission’s commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities is inspiring, and I know our community will be excited to support this initiative.”

Canada Bay councillor Andrew Ferguson said he was excited that residents’ voices had finally been heard after months of protest.

“To the great disappointment of many the cafe in Concord Library closed in May,” he said.

“After many months of delay a community petition was initiated urging council to re establish the cafe and I’m pleased that the voice of residents are finally heard with unanimous support from council.

“This endorsement is significant step forward in supporting a more inclusive and connected community.”