If you are a bibliophile, I’m sure you know this library cafe. And if you don’t, this is a sign for you to visit this lovely place! This library cafe is called Orchid’s Library, owned by a TikTok influencer, named Dayana.
If you’re into ‘booktok’, you might catch this girl a few times reviewing and recommending books on her TikTok page. Now, she’s opened her own library cafe located at KL Traders Square. Apart from being a full-time cafe owner, she’s also a fitness coach.
The library cafe is not the only reason you may want to come here, Dayana’s cafe also serves healthy appetisers and beverages, such as low-calorie waffles and high-protein drinks. We dove deep into the benefits of the menu served and her passion for reading.
Can you share with me the inspiration behind starting a library cafe that promotes health?
“Both of my parents have been entrepreneurs in the wellness industry for over 18 years. What began as a small dream evolved into the journey of Orchid’s Library, which started on TikTok in March 2020. I’ve been creating content specifically focused on book reviews. The concept for my café is inspired by replicating my own cosy library bedroom at home.
Opening the café was one of my resolutions, and thanks to my parents’ support as my wingmen, my dream has finally come true. We spent about 8 months perfecting our Protein Smoothies, energy beverages, and protein waffles to ensure they were just right for our menu.
Additionally, my parents’ Meal Plan team and leaders were instrumental in food testing. It’s no easy task to mix and match ingredients to create meals that are both tasty and healthy with low calories.
In Malaysia, particularly in KL, we didn’t see any café offering a menu like ours, so we decided to take the initiative. The names of all our smoothies were chosen by me, inspired by characters from the books I’ve read. We officially launched Orchid’s Library on June 23, 2022.
In addition to our protein drinks and low-calorie waffles, we also offer hot and cold coffee. After all, what’s a café without coffee, right?”
How do you include healthy food choices in your cafe’s menu, and what kinds of meals can customers look forward to?
“We balance our offerings with customer enjoyment in mind, which is why the café has a diverse audience: the ones that are truly readers and the ones that are also apart from the health community.
For meals, we focus on protein smoothies like Crunchy Nikolai and Cookie Cardan. Crunchy Nikolai is inspired by the Grishaverse trilogy from my favourite books, and Cookie Cardan is named after the Folk of the Air series. We aim to show appreciation for readers while also offering health benefits. And don’t worry, I know the word “healthy” might seem intimidating, but I promise our protein smoothies are both savoury and filling at the same time!”
Is there any signature healthy food or drink that has become particularly popular among your customers?
“Our signature dish has to be the protein waffles we call Lila Puffles. I know, the name’s a bit quirky, but it’s a nod to my book obsession. “Lila” is from A Darker Shade of Magic, and “Puffles” is a fun mix of pages + waffles haha. Customers love them as a hearty meal since they’re protein-packed and filling. You can get them with your choice of flavours like chocolate or peanut butter.
We also have popular protein smoothies like Crunchy Nikolai, Kaul Pistachio, and Cookie Cardan.
Oh, and for coffee (not protein), people go crazy for our hot latte and hazelnut latte!”
Do you have any plans to expand or innovate your healthy menu offerings in the future?
“As owners and entrepreneurs, we’re all about taking things to the next level. We’re thinking of franchising and bringing our concept to more places, maybe even internationally if the chance comes up. Why not, right?
Right now, my parents and I are working on a new menu to add to our main staples of protein smoothies and protein waffles. We’re looking to release our new menu in:
- Sports Performance options
- Energy & Boost items
- Sports Recovery treats
- Protein Pastries
- Healthy Protein Cakes
- Protein Balls, Muffins, Pancakes
- Protein Mocktails
- Meal Replacement Smoothies (for weight management)
- Muscle Gain options
- Digestive Health products
- Ideal Weight and Healthy Skin items
- Eat Right-Stay Fit-Reshape-Repeat with Team PowerFit”
Can you share with me the benefits of your protein smoothies?
“Our protein smoothies offer a range of benefits. They are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight without giving up on taste. We keep the sugar content low, so you can enjoy a smoothie that’s delicious, yet not overly sweet.
Each smoothie is high in protein, which is ideal for muscle repair and helps keep you feeling full longer. They’re also hearty enough to serve as a complete meal on their own, which is perfect for busy days. Plus, we use only premium ingredients to ensure that you get the highest quality and best flavour in every sip.”
What unique services does your library cafe offer that set it apart from others?
“Orchid Library is a special place for readers. All the books I’ve read over the years are now available at the café, with the goal of helping those who might not be able to afford new books (since they can be pricey). I’ve annotated my books with my thoughts, hoping that other readers can connect with my experiences and engage in conversations about them. Most of my customers are avid readers, and I’ve built a fantastic social network within this community, making it the best service I can provide.
As the café owner and a fellow reader, I cherish these interactions. Currently, there’s no borrowing system because I have a personal attachment to my books. The name “Orchid Library” comes from my teenage love for orchids. After some research, I discovered the name Layla Dayana, which subtly honours my café’s roots as “Dayana Café.”
Can you tell us about your own collection of books that are available for reading in the cafe? What motivated you to share these books with others?
“A variety of book genres are available at the café. People also donate books, including publishers who want to gain more exposure by connecting with this reading community. I love sharing my book recommendations with others. It gives me a great sense of satisfaction. It’s a wonderful way to get to know a lot of people too.”
Can you share how people can donate books to your library cafe and how it helps enhance the community’s access to reading materials?
“I love this question! Yes, our café is open to book donations, but only for walk-ins. Anyone who donates more than three books whether they’re magazines, comics, or manga will receive a free refresher as a token of our appreciation.
When we first opened the café, I only intended to display my own books. However, so many people approached me wanting to contribute their books that I realized the café would be a shared space, not just mine but also the community’s.
I love how the café radiates comfort, with books that are a mix of my collection and those donated by others. It feels like a family of the reading community, and I see it as part of our growth.
This approach enriches our community with diverse reading materials to suit everyone’s taste. We have everything from classics and manga to fiction in various languages. It truly is a library in every sense!”
We hope this café inspires more people to enjoy reading, grow intellectually, and live a healthy lifestyle. Kudos to Orchid’s Library for making such a cosy spot where everyone can find a little joy and inspiration!
Orchid’s Library
Address: 53A – 1 KL TRADERS SQUARE, Jln Gombak, Kampung Kuantan, 53000 Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 3pm – 9pm
Halal Status: Muslim-owned
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