Cloakroom
A cloakroom, or sometimes coatroom, is a room for people to hang their cloaks or other outerwear when they enter a building. Cloakrooms are typically found inside large buildings, such as gymnasiums, schools, churches or meeting halls.
In the UK, a cloakroom may also refer to a lavatory. The word is often thought to be derived from the French cloaque (sewer); however, it comes from the French cloque meaning "traveling cloak".
Attendants
Attended cloakrooms, or coat checks, are staffed rooms where coats and bags can be stored securely. Typically, a ticket or receipt is given to the customer, with a corresponding ticket attached to the garment or item. Coat checks are often found at the entrances to nightclubs, theaters, concert halls, larger restaurants, or museums. A nominal fee may be charged, or a tip may be paid by the customer when they reclaim their item. Some coat checks post signs disclaiming any fees or tips, especially when their use is mandatory (as in many museums).
The concept of the coat check was initiated by Albert Behar in the New York area shortly after the Great Depression. Mr. Behar noticed that customers put their coats on the back of their chairs, and offered to store the coats for the customers in a small room adjoining the restaurant.