In fact, owner Tracy Keeley said it was the iconic Leonard French windows that inspired the cafe's facelift.

"The colour palette has all been built around the colours that are in the windows because the windows are our main feature in this space," Ms Keeley said.

The cafe reopened on Monday after it closed on May 23 for a long overdue sprucing up.

Ms Keeley said: "The cafe hasn't had a refurbishment for over 10 years so certain things needed to be replaced."

Bursts of autumnal colours now complement the cafe's grand views over the lake from its glass-walled terrace and the magnificent jewel tones of the stained glass windows.

Ms Keeley said they tried to "mellow" the space but retain its classic style.

"People are going to love the warmth, the sense of calmness in the space. All the busy-ness of the interior has been taken out and it's quite a calm, beautiful refined space now," she said.

There are lots of little touches that add a pop of colour to the previously neutral space.

Those who drop by for a bite can sink into mustard banquettes and eat off brand new navy blue crockery made by an Australian potter.

"That element will be so beautiful because you get this amazing energy eating off something that's been handmade by someone. Every plate will be unique," Ms Keeley said.

The cafe will feature monthly installations reflecting exhibits at the library and a new seasonal menu, currently based on the aubergine, plum and berry hues of winter.

Ms Keeley said said they're thinking of introducing a revolving menu of cocktails to round out their selection of Canberra wines and fresh juices, too.

Lunchtime diners seemed suitably impressed with the changes.

"[The] food's amazing ... first visit, it's really nice, really enjoying it," Collette said.

"The refurb looks great," Sujit said.

Bookplate Cafe is open inside the National Library of Australia, Canberra seven days.