Full Breakdown
Quimby’s Bookstore Launches New Printing and Design Services for Indie Creators
12/16/2025, 5:09:05 AM
Introduction of Quimby’s Ink
Quimby’s Bookstore, a staple in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood for over 30 years, has introduced a new printing and design service named Quimby’s Ink. This initiative aims to support independent creators, zinemakers, and comic artists who seek to self-publish their work but may lack the resources or knowledge to do so. The bookstore, located at 1854 W. North Ave., was recently taken over by owners Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman, who are committed to enhancing the store's offerings while preserving its cultural significance.
Addressing Resource Gaps for Creators
Bergman, who has experience teaching art and communication design, identified a significant resource gap for emerging artists. Many aspiring creators face challenges in accessing printing facilities, particularly for small-scale projects. “Artists often look at this scenario where they need a studio, they need a $5,000 Risograph machine, a letterpress that weighs 2,000, 3,000 pounds,” he noted. Quimby’s Ink aims to bridge this gap by providing affordable printing options and creative consultations, fostering a DIY ethos among creators. The service will also allow successful projects to be sold in the store through its consignment program.
Recent Changes and Future Aspirations
Since taking ownership, Kasselman and Bergman have implemented several improvements, including the installation of new flooring and the digitization of the consignment system, which previously relied on manual tracking. Kasselman stated, “We are about 90 percent of the way to migrating to a new consignment platform, which means that there are 10,000 consigners who are in a new platform right now.” This modernization aims to enhance the experience for consigners, allowing them to track their sales online.
Looking ahead, the owners plan to reinvest profits from Quimby’s Ink into establishing their own publishing press, producing titles under the Quimby’s brand. Kasselman emphasized the bookstore's mission, stating, “We are a community service, not a capitalist entity. Our community service is bringing creators together, educating, driving learning and development, and just creating discourse around getting your voice heard.”
Conclusion
Quimby’s Bookstore continues to evolve under the stewardship of Bergman and Kasselman, with Quimby’s Ink representing a significant step in supporting local creators. As the bookstore approaches its 35th anniversary in 2026, its commitment to fostering a vibrant community of artists remains steadfast, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for independent publishing in Chicago.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Quimby’s is a cultural institution, and we’re the current stewards of it,” — Peter Miles Bergman, Co-owner
- “We are that much closer to consigners being able to have self-service, to just be able to log on and see, ‘OK, here’s what I sold.'” — Cody Kasselman, Co-owner
- “Our niche is people who want or need a little bit of instruction and assistance, and to learn as they go,” — Peter Miles Bergman, Co-owner
