Puzzles Bakery in Downtown Schenectady got a lot of press for being a very inclusive place to work, focusing on giving opportunities to those with developmental disabilities (puzzle being the symbol of Autism). Puzzles may be gone but they’re opening with a new concept.
The COVID-19 shutdown has hurt a bunch of local businesses and kept them from coming back. After seeing the doors of Puzzles Bakery & Cafe closed for about three years, I was nervous it took another. Luckily, Sara Pratt, the owner and founder of Puzzles posted that though the business as you knew it is gone, she’s working on a new concept for the space.
“Novel BIBLIO•BREW is a coffee bar, eatery, and bite-sized bookstore in Schenectady, New York offering carefully crafted food & beverages, a curated selection of gifts & goods, and immersive community events & experiences.”
She said that changing the name of Puzzles is an emotional experience but is excited for what’s to come under the new name. She has made it clear on the website that she still wishes to celebrate people of all abilities and as they’re posting on Instagram, some familiar faces will be returning. “Over the course of five years, Puzzles provided people of all abilities the opportunity for personal growth, as well as a source of income, social interaction, and a sense of purpose. We seek to honor this legacy, both as an Equal Opportunity Employer and as a community gathering space. All are welcome and celebrated at Novel BIBLIO•BREW.”
Novel will be open Thursday and Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
