Writers, artists and musicians have a new place to meet, exchange ideas and enjoy a cup of coffee in Ames. Located at 323 Main St., Cafe Diem opened over the summer and will offer open mic nights and live entertainment. Owner and ISU alum Bill Malone had college students specifically in mind when he opened the cafe. “The main thing I had in mind in starting this business was filling the void I saw missing when I went to school here,” Malone said. “I wanted to create a place where you could come for a change of pace.” Shaun Liboon will be doing booking for the cafe. “We want this to be a place where artists and musicians can come to share their work with others, getting exposure, as well as interacting with other artists,” Liboon explained. Writers will have a place where they can leave their work to be read at the cafe. Artists will have a place to display their work, and musicians with little exposure can play their music for a crowd who can appreciate their talents, Liboon said. Local published authors have books on display that are free to read while at the cafe. Writers featured include ISU faculty members such as Evelina Galang, assistant professor of English, and Sheryl St. Germain, associate professor of English. One aspect that sets Cafe Diem apart from other venues is that entertainment will be offered for free. Fridays will feature live local music or black-and-white film screenings, Sundays there will be a weekly folk jam, and an open mic night will take place Tuesdays at 7 p.m. “We’re less focused on bands here, but there is often live music for entertainment,” Malone said. “Cafe Diem is a great place for a date.” Solo artists such as Kathryn Musilek and bands like Karma Lab and Pookey Bleum have already taken advantage of the openness of the Cafe Diem stage. “We played and really enjoyed the atmosphere. It’s a very cool coffee shop where a college student can feel comfortable taking their parents,” said Patrick Fleming, guitarist for local power pop band Pookey Bleum. Cafe Diem hopes to give up-and-coming local bands the chance to get their first gig. Customers of Cafe Diem will have at their disposal a wide selection of grilled sandwiches, fresh salads, and what Liboon describes as some of the best looking, best tasting coffees in Ames. “We have a great, helpful staff that I feel really good about, and you’ll be sure to feel welcome when you walk in the door,” Liboon said. “The atmosphere at Cafe Diem is different than any other place in Ames,” Malone added. “It’s special.”