A first-of-its-kind lending library for cookbooks opens tomorrow in Las Vegas. The idea for Nice Nice Bite was hatched by local chef and TV host Alica Shevetone “at 11 o’clock, drinking wine one night,” believing knowledge about cooking shouldn’t be limited to those with money to spend.
😎 How Does It Work?
The self-serve library is inside Palate, a new restaurant in the Downtown Arts District. Visitors are welcome to browse the collection of cookbooks at their leisure. Each one has a QR code on the inside cover, leading to clear online steps on how to borrow it. No credit card or account is needed. If you want to grab a drink at the bar and flip through one of the books, that’s fine too.
⌛ How Long Do I Get the Book?
You have 30 days to return the book. At that point, a reminder email is sent out. The library operates on a trust system without overdue charges.
📚 How Many Books Are There?
So far, the collection has around 100 books with more being processed by the day. Nice Nice Bite has received donations from a variety of sources around the world. You can always browse the collection in advance online.
🤔 What Can I Expect?
Some cookbooks are by famous chefs — like a fancy one by Nobu Matsuhisa that typically comes with a high price tag. Others are from small regional publishers that don’t actively distribute throughout the country. It’s a great way to learn about Lebanese, Creole, or Jewish cuisine — and much more.
👉 Who’s behind it?
Shevetone teamed up with Dr. Nichole Beer, a school district librarian to launch the library. Nice Nice Bite is certified by the American Library Association to ensure the collection is cataloged, stamped, and managed properly.
🍽️ What’s next?
Nice Nice Bite believes the concept can work in other cities and states. The team is already in discussions to bring a version of the library to the Henderson Multigenerational Center near Green Valley Ranch.
