You won’t walk into Quimby’s expecting a sleek, polished retail chain—and that’s exactly the point. Since opening its doors in 1991, Quimby’s has become a celebrated haven for zine makers, underground comics creators, small-press publishers, and anyone who wants to explore literature off the beaten path. In the heart of Wicker Park, it’s as much a cultural statement as it is a bookstore, and visiting it feels more like stepping into a curated gallery of ideas than a retail shop.
Quimby’s started in a small corner bodega-style space, before later relocating to a larger storefront on North Avenue. Its founder named it after a zine he had published, and the store quickly became known for championing the weird, the experimental, the political, and the unapologetically niche. Over time it has maintained its identity as a place where the mainstream is sidestepped and the daring is embraced.
Key Highlights & What You’ll Find
At Quimby’s, zines and independent periodicals reign supreme. A significant chunk of their stock is made up of self-published works produced by local and international zinesters. Many creators consign their works, allowing them to share space in this cultural hub at minimal barrier.
Beyond zines, Quimby’s carries a strong selection of comics, art books, alternative literature, and cultural ephemera. Issues on feminism, queer theory, anarchism, pop culture subversion, surrealism, and conspiracy adorn the shelves. Mainstream bestsellers might exist, but they’re rarely the highlight.
A quirky feature inside: a photo booth tucked in the back, helping the space double as both bookstore and playful portrait spot. It’s slow, analog, and fits right in.
Quimby’s doesn’t just sell — it hosts events, readings, workshops, and pop-ups frequently. It actively participates in Chicago’s Zine Fest, sponsors meetups like a Zine Club, and formerly ran an annual overnight “zlumber party” where zinesters gather to create and converse.
Atmosphere & Vibe
Walking into Quimby’s is like stepping into someone’s highly creative workshop. Walls are packed with shelves, counters hold piles of hand-stapled magazines and art, and the floor is often scattered with flyers, free zines, stickers, and curios. The décor feels DIY, low-gloss, expressive—but in a coherent way. It’s not minimal or Instagram-perfect, but it’s deeply authentic.
You’ll see printed posters, wall art, odd found-object displays, and rotating installations made by local artists. The store feels lived-in, purposeful, and open to experimentation. Natural light filters in through the storefront windows, but many corners are intentionally dim or softly lit so that you can stumble upon hidden treasures.
In quieter moments, the store hums with hushed rustling pages and the occasional flip of a magazine; during busier hours or events, it pulses with creative energy.
Other Considerations
How much does it cost? Expect zines and smaller publications in the few-dollar range, while more elaborate art books or specialty comics may reach mid-range prices. Because much of the stock is self-published or small press, the pricing tends to reflect the labor and rarity rather than retail markup.
Is it easy to find? Quimby’s is in the Wicker Park neighborhood, a part of Chicago known for independent shops, cafes, and creative energy. The address is straightforward, but parking in the area can be tight. Public transit or walking is a safer bet.
Best time to visit? Weekdays (Wednesday through Monday, since Tuesday is closed) tend to be quieter, letting you browse in peace. Event nights or weekends bring community energy and occasional crowds.
Any recent changes? In 2025 the store changed hands: longtime owner Eric Kirsammer sold Quimby’s to new co-owners Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman. The new owners have expressed a commitment to maintaining the store’s deep roots in the zine and indie publishing community, with plans to expand workshops and community programming.
Also worth noting: Quimby’s Chicago is one of two locations—the other operates in New York—but the Chicago branch remains the flagship and the spiritual center of the brand.
Hidden gem tip: Don’t skip the consignment section, where lesser-known creators place their work. Some real treasures hide there. Take time to flip through the free zine tables near the entrance. You never know when a small piece of art will grab you.
Quimby’s Bookstore
📍 1854 W. North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Website: https://www.quimbys.com/
