Local business changes hands

The University Library Café has been sold. Founder Chip Coil has owned the restaurant and bar, frequented by Drake students, for 19 years. He started looking for new owners when he decided to move to Cincinnati with his wife. Coil chose Full Court Press, a group that owns several bars and restaurants in downtown Des Moines.

“I liked that the (new owners) want to keep it ‘The Library,’” Coil said. “They want to keep it the same as it is.”

Drake students love the relaxed environment of The Library, known for award winning nachos and witty phrases on the sign out front.

“My favorite thing about The Library is the atmosphere,” said senior Ryan Raether, who is a bartender at the establishment. “It’s Cheers-esque. You know, that neighborhood bar where you go hang out and everyone knows your name.”

Coil said he is going to miss The Library.

“I’ll miss all the fun that happens there,” he said. “And seeing people enjoy the good food and cold beer.”