Quimby's Chicago: Your Guide To A Unique Wicker Park Bookstore
There's a spot in Chicago, a really special place, that holds a particular kind of magic for folks who love books, zines, and just about anything outside the usual. It's a bookstore, yes, but it's more than that, you know? It's a true landmark, a place where different voices and stories find a home. This place, Quimby's Chicago, has a way of staying with you, long after you leave its doors. It's a bit of a treasure, honestly, for anyone wandering through the city looking for something a little different.
Quimby's bookstore offers a curated selection of books, zines, and comics in Chicago. It's celebrated for its unique and alternative literary finds, providing a space where independent voices really shine. You'll discover things here you won't find just anywhere, which is part of its charm. It's truly a place that stands out, quite unlike other spots.
This independent bookstore, located in the Wicker Park neighborhood, has a long history. It has seen changes, including new owners, yet its spirit remains. It keeps on offering its special collection to the people of Chicago and beyond. It's pretty amazing, really, how it continues to thrive.
- Cross Tattoos For Men
- Hilton New York Fashion District
- Lourdes Garcia
- Harwich Cape Cod Massachusetts
- Tooth Gem
Table of Contents
- What Makes Quimby's Chicago Special?
- A Look Inside Quimby's: Books, Zines, and More
- Finding Quimby's Chicago: Location and Directions
- The Story of Quimby's: A Chicago Legacy
- Connecting with the Community: Events and Collaborations
- The People Behind Quimby's Chicago
- Frequently Asked Questions About Quimby's Chicago
What Makes Quimby's Chicago Special?
Quimby's bookstore holds a very special spot in the hearts of many in Chicago. It’s not just any book shop; it’s a place that feels like home for those who seek out things a bit outside the mainstream. The selection here is, in a way, truly unique. You will find items that are carefully picked, a curated selection of books, zines, and comics.
This focus on unique and alternative literary finds is what makes Quimby's stand apart. It's a place where you can discover something new, something you didn't even know you were looking for. The shelves are filled with stories and artwork that might not make it into bigger stores. This is why it’s celebrated, you see, for its different kind of offerings.
For anyone who loves independent publishing, or perhaps just enjoys exploring different kinds of art, Quimby's Chicago offers a real treat. It feels like a hub for creativity, a spot where you can connect with ideas that challenge and inspire. It’s a very welcoming place, too, for all sorts of readers and creators.
- Saucy Santana Leaked Video
- Clifton Powell
- Pacific City Or Weather
- Kyliemasion Onlyfans
- Sarah Brown Actress
A Look Inside Quimby's: Books, Zines, and More
Stepping into Quimby's Chicago is like entering a world full of discovery. The store is packed with all sorts of things, truly. You'll find a wide array of books, of course, but the real stars for many are the zines and comics. These are often self-published works, full of raw energy and personal stories. It's a very different experience than browsing a typical bookstore.
The selection goes beyond just reading material, in some respects. You might find items like "Prompts for your Chicago stories by Zine Club Chicago and Cynthia E. Hanifin," which shows how deeply connected Quimby's is to the local creative scene. These kinds of items are pretty common here, actually. It's a place that supports local artists and writers.
You can also find interesting photo books, like one "peppered with quotes from folks like Nelson Algren," featuring Chicago's beloved people at work and at play. This includes CTA workers and commuters, people in the parks or on the street. It gives you a sense of the city, too, through a unique lens. Quimby's really offers a window into different worlds.
Finding Quimby's Chicago: Location and Directions
Quimby's bookstore is located at 1854 W North Ave in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. This address, 60622, is pretty easy to remember once you've been there a time or two. It's a key spot within that area, you know, a place many people seek out. Finding it is part of the fun, in a way.
If you are looking for directions, Quimby's is on North Ave, which is a main street in Wicker Park. It's about three blocks east of Damen Ave, and just one block west of Honore. So, it's not too hard to spot once you're in the neighborhood. Many people use the Damen (at Evergreen) area as a general reference point, too. It's a fairly central spot.
The store itself is in a 1000 sq ft space, offering plenty of room to browse and explore. The neighborhood itself, Wicker Park, is known for its independent shops and creative vibe, which fits Quimby's perfectly. It's a great place to walk around, honestly, before or after your visit. You can get more information for Quimby's in Chicago, IL, and see reviews, maps, and directions online, too.
The Story of Quimby's: A Chicago Legacy
Quimby's bookstore has a rich history, stretching back more than three decades. It's a story of passion for independent publishing and zine culture. The store has been a cornerstone of the Chicago DIY scene for a very long time. It really has a deep past, you see, rooted in the city's creative spirit.
In 1997, Eric Kirsammer, who also owned Chicago Comics, purchased the business. He then relocated it to its current home a few years later. This move helped solidify Quimby's place in the Wicker Park community. Eric Kirsammer, from Chicago Comics, had a long connection to this world, which helped the store keep its unique feel. It's pretty interesting, the way things unfolded.
Recently, Quimby's bookstore changed hands after more than 30 years. New owners are overjoyed to continue the legacy of this iconic indie publishing institution. This change was announced on social media, too, which made many people happy. It shows how much this place means to folks. The store is still very much alive and well.
Connecting with the Community: Events and Collaborations
Quimby's Chicago is not just a place to buy books; it's also a hub for community activities. The store often sponsors events that bring people together, especially those interested in zines and independent art. This really helps to build connections among like-minded individuals. It’s a very active part of the local scene, you know.
For example, there's a free event series produced by Cynthia E. Hanifin and sponsored by Quimby’s bookstore. This series often features prompts for Chicago stories, created by Zine Club Chicago and Cynthia E. Hanifin herself. These kinds of events are pretty special, actually, offering a chance for people to create and share their own work. It's a collaborative spirit that shines through.
The store's involvement in these kinds of activities shows its commitment to fostering creativity and supporting the independent publishing world. It’s a place where ideas are shared, and new projects can take root. This community focus is a big part of what makes Quimby's so beloved. Learn more about independent publishing on our site, and link to this page https://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/quimbys-bookstore-changes-hands-after-more-than-30-years/ for more details on the ownership change.
The People Behind Quimby's Chicago
A team of new owners has taken ownership of Quimby’s bookstore at 1854 W North Ave. These individuals are Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman, along with an affiliate, Eric Von Haynes. All three bring deep ties to indie publishing, zine culture, and the Chicago DIY scene. It's pretty clear they are the right people for the job, honestly.
Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman, along with Eric Von Haynes, are committed to continuing the store's legacy. They understand what makes Quimby's special and aim to keep that spirit alive. This is important, you know, for a place that has meant so much to so many over the years. Their background really helps them connect with the store's core mission.
Eric Kirsammer, the longtime owner from Chicago Comics, passed the torch to this new team. He had built something truly unique, and now these new owners are carrying it forward. Their combined experience in the indie publishing world means Quimby's is in good hands. It’s a very positive step for the store, too, ensuring its future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quimby's Chicago
People often have questions about Quimby's Chicago, especially if they are new to the area or just discovering this unique spot. Here are some common things people ask, which might help you plan your visit or just learn more about this special bookstore.
Where is Quimby's bookstore located in Chicago?
Quimby's bookstore is located at 1854 W North Ave in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. It's pretty easy to find once you are in the area. The address is 60622. It's a very known spot, too, in that part of the city. You can use online maps to get precise directions, of course.
What kind of books does Quimby's sell?
Quimby's specializes in a curated selection of books, zines, and comics. They are known for their unique and alternative literary finds. You won't find typical bestsellers here, but rather independent publications, underground comics, and a wide variety of zines. It's a very different kind of inventory, honestly, focused on the less common. They have a lot of items you might not see anywhere else.
Who owns Quimby's bookstore?
Quimby's bookstore recently changed ownership. The new owners are a team that includes Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman, along with an affiliate named Eric Von Haynes. They took over from the longtime owner, Eric Kirsammer, who also owned Chicago Comics. These new owners have deep connections to indie publishing and zine culture. They are very much committed to keeping the store's unique spirit alive.
Chicago History: Quimby's Bookstore — MG Group
Chicago Neighborhood: Wicker Park | DeBlogs
Escape to These Top 10 Independent Bookstores in Chicago | UrbanMatter
