Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman have purchased Quimby's Bookstore, Chicago, Ill., from previous owner Eric Kirsammer.
The 1,500-square-foot bookstore, at 1854 W. North Ave. in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood, focuses on independently published books, graphic novels, and zines.
Kasselman is a self-described "lifelong bookstore lover and avid reader" and has experience in the publishing industry, as well as a background in helping small business owners "grow their operations and refine their long-term strategy." Prior to joining Quimby's, Kasselman supported the art and photo bookstore Earnest Paper in Denver, Colo.
Bergman has a background in commercial printing, and for the past 17 years has been a professor of art and graphic design at Metropolitan State University of Denver. For 13 years, Bergman has run the publishing imprint is Press; its titles have been sold on consignment at Quimby's.
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| Peter Miles Bergman and Cody Kasselman | |
"I'm proud to co-steward Quimby's next chapter alongside Peter," Kasselman said. "I'm most excited to preserve Quimby's artist and author-led legacy and continue providing a platform for the creative community."
"I'm overjoyed to take the helm of my favorite bookstore alongside Cody," Bergman added. "I'm most excited to provide a platform for you, and to add my small press publishing and printing skills to Quimby's mission."
Eric Kirsammer bought Quimby's from original owner Steven Svymbersky in 1996 and moved the store to its current home that same year. He announced he was selling the store in December 2024, telling Block Club Chicago that the departure of long-time manager Liz Mason was a major reason for his decision to sell.
Kasselman is already working full-time at the store, and Bergman will start in late May.