Quimby's Bookstore is an analog photo booth located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Quimby's is an independently owned bookstore that specializes in independently published and small press books, comics, and zines. The booth, a Model 21, is located in the northeast corner of the store, near the art and film zines. Using the burgundy curtain instead of the light blue curtain for your background allows a nicer contrast. Famed author and radio commentator Dishwasher Pete is featured in the sample photo. UPDATE 3/1/12: Taylor Anne visited and reported the booth was 'broken and not operating; store did not know when it would be fixed.' UPDATE 12/26/12: Betsy reports 'I visited on 12/26/12 with my boyfriend and the booth worked great. The person working behind the counter had no problem with us just using the booth and not buying anything.' UPDATE 11/9/16: The booth is still going strong as of a visit today, according to Andrew. UPDATE 12/27/20: Thanks to Parker for the update: 'The booth is still up and running in good shape! The borders are white and the images are clear with sepia toning. It costs $4 and produces 4 images on a sheet. They unplug the machine 15 mins before closing.' UPDATE 10/2/23: Corinne reports that 'Quimby's no longer has a photobooth. A sign at the front of the store directs visitors to other photobooth locations around the city.' Contributed by Liz, Taylor Anne, Betsy, Andrew Kropp, Parker, Corinne.
The cost to use Quimby's Bookstore is $3.00 per photo strip. This booth accepts cash only.
Quimby's Bookstore
Key Details
Machine
B&W
Film
B&W
Payment
Cash Only
Hours
Check on-site
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Quick Answer
Is Quimby's Bookstore a working photo booth?
Booth Beacon currently lists Quimby's Bookstore as broken in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The listing shows black and white strips, a listed price of $3.00, and cash only payment notes. Check the verification and source notes before making a special trip.
Verification Snapshot
- Status
- Broken
- Last checked
- Nov 9, 2016
- Source
- photobooth.net
- Classification
- Analog
Evidence & Updates
- Listing updated
- Mar 16, 2026
- Community check
- Awaiting community check
- Source verified
- Nov 9, 2016
- Visual proof
- 0 photo signals
Browse This Booth Through
Proof signals: Status listed as inactive; Checked Nov 9, 2016; Primary source: photobooth.net; 1 image signal; Map coordinates present.
Location
1854 W. North Ave., Chicago, Illinois, United States
About
Quimby's is an independently owned bookstore that specializes in independently published and small press books, comics, and zines. The booth, a Model 21, is located in the northeast corner of the store, near the art and film zines. Using the burgundy curtain instead of the light blue curtain for your background allows a nicer contrast. Famed author and radio commentator Dishwasher Pete is featured in the sample photo. UPDATE 3/1/12: Taylor Anne visited and reported the booth was 'broken and not operating; store did not know when it would be fixed.' UPDATE 12/26/12: Betsy reports 'I visited on 12/26/12 with my boyfriend and the booth worked great. The person working behind the counter had no problem with us just using the booth and not buying anything.' UPDATE 11/9/16: The booth is still going strong as of a visit today, according to Andrew. UPDATE 12/27/20: Thanks to Parker for the update: 'The booth is still up and running in good shape! The borders are white and the images are clear with sepia toning. It costs $4 and produces 4 images on a sheet. They unplug the machine 15 mins before closing.' UPDATE 10/2/23: Corinne reports that 'Quimby's no longer has a photobooth. A sign at the front of the store directs visitors to other photobooth locations around the city.' Contributed by Liz, Taylor Anne, Betsy, Andrew Kropp, Parker, Corinne.
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Location & Access
Quimby's Bookstore is located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. This authentic analog photo booth offers instant photochemical prints using classic film processing technology.
Full Address
1854 W. North Ave., Chicago, Illinois, United States
Getting to Quimby's Bookstore is easy for both locals and visitors. The booth is situated in an accessible area of Chicago, making it convenient for anyone looking to capture authentic analog photo memories. Whether you're exploring the neighborhood or specifically seeking out this classic photo booth experience, you'll find it at the address listed above.
Operating Details
Pricing
$3.00
This price typically includes a strip of 4 analog photos. Each photo is developed using authentic photochemical processing, giving you instant prints with that classic photo booth look. Prices are subject to change - please verify at the location.
Payment Options
This booth accepts cash only. Please come prepared with exact change when possible.
About This Photo Booth
This booth features a B&W, known for producing high-quality analog photo strips using traditional photochemical film processing.
Analog photo booths like Quimby's Bookstore use genuine film chemistry to develop photos instantly, creating the authentic vintage look that digital booths can't replicate. The chemical development process produces unique variations in each photo strip, making every visit a one-of-a-kind experience.
Quimby's is an independently owned bookstore that specializes in independently published and small press books, comics, and zines. The booth, a Model 21, is located in the northeast corner of the store, near the art and film zines. Using the burgundy curtain instead of the light blue curtain for your background allows a nicer contrast. Famed author and radio commentator Dishwasher Pete is featured in the sample photo. UPDATE 3/1/12: Taylor Anne visited and reported the booth was 'broken and not operating; store did not know when it would be fixed.' UPDATE 12/26/12: Betsy reports 'I visited on 12/26/12 with my boyfriend and the booth worked great. The person working behind the counter had no problem with us just using the booth and not buying anything.' UPDATE 11/9/16: The booth is still going strong as of a visit today, according to Andrew. UPDATE 12/27/20: Thanks to Parker for the update: 'The booth is still up and running in good shape! The borders are white and the images are clear with sepia toning. It costs $4 and produces 4 images on a sheet. They unplug the machine 15 mins before closing.' UPDATE 10/2/23: Corinne reports that 'Quimby's no longer has a photobooth. A sign at the front of the store directs visitors to other photobooth locations around the city.' Contributed by Liz, Taylor Anne, Betsy, Andrew Kropp, Parker, Corinne.
Visiting Chicago
Chicago is home to Quimby's Bookstore and represents part of the growing movement to preserve and celebrate authentic analog photography. Whether you're a local resident or traveling through Chicago, this photo booth offers a unique opportunity to experience vintage photography technology in action.
Photo booth enthusiasts visiting Chicago will appreciate the authentic chemical processing that sets analog booths apart from modern digital alternatives. The instant development process produces distinctive, nostalgic photo strips that have become collectible mementos for many visitors.
Know more about this booth? Help the community by submitting updates, photos, or corrections through our booth submission form. Accurate information helps everyone enjoy these classic machines.
Location & Serving Areas
Quimby's Bookstore is conveniently located in Chicago, Illinois, United States, making it accessible to both local residents and visitors exploring the area. This authentic analog photo booth serves the surrounding community with instant photochemical photography services.
Serving These Areas
Whether you're a resident of Chicago or just passing through, this photo booth offers a unique opportunity to create lasting memories using traditional film processing technology. The booth's location makes it easy to access during your visit to the area.
Accessibility & Parking
The photo booth is located at 1854 W. North Ave., Chicago, Illinois, United States. For the best experience, we recommend planning your visit during normal business hours when the location is most accessible.
Getting There
- Street parking may be available nearby (check local regulations)
- Public transportation options may serve this area of Chicago
- The booth is typically accessible during venue operating hours
- Consider checking current conditions before traveling to ensure accessibility
Planning to visit? We recommend calling ahead if contact information is available, or checking recent community updates to confirm the booth is operational before making a special trip.
Finding This Booth
This photo booth is located at coordinates 41.910725, -87.674774. You can use these coordinates in any mapping application for precise directions.
Pro Tip: Use the "Get Directions" button at the top of this page to open your preferred navigation app with this location pre-loaded. This ensures you'll find the booth quickly and easily, especially if you're unfamiliar with Chicago.
Pricing & Rental Information
$3.00
Per photo session
At Quimby's Bookstore, you'll experience authentic analog photography at an affordable price. The cost shown covers a standard photo booth session, which typically produces a strip of instant photos using traditional photochemical processing.
What's Included
- Strip of authentic analog photos (typically 4 images)
- Instant development using photochemical film processing
- Classic photo booth experience with vintage aesthetic
- Unique chemical variations in each print
- Physical keepsake photos to take home immediately
Payment Methods
This booth operates on a cash-only basis. Please come prepared with exact change if possible, as the machine may not provide change. Many visitors find that cash-only photo booths maintain the authentic vintage experience. Consider bringing small bills to ensure smooth operation.
Session Details
A typical photo booth session lasts just a few minutes from start to finish. After payment, you'll enter the booth, pose for a series of photos (usually 4 frames), and receive your developed photo strip within seconds. The chemical development process happens instantly inside the booth.
Session Timeline: Payment → Enter booth → Pose for 4 photos → Wait for chemical development (15-30 seconds) → Receive photo strip → Exit booth. Total time: 2-3 minutes per session.
Additional Services
While most analog photo booths offer standard photo strips, some locations may provide additional services or customization options. Features can vary by location and may include different film types, color vs. black-and-white options, or special event configurations.
Prices shown are subject to change. We recommend verifying current pricing at the location before your visit. Some booths may offer discounts for multiple sessions or special events.
Help others discover this booth!
Share photos of the exterior or interior to help the community find and identify this booth
Quimby's Bookstore FAQ
What are the hours for Quimby's Bookstore?
Hours for Quimby's Bookstore are unconfirmed. Verify before visiting.
How much does Quimby's Bookstore cost?
Quimby's Bookstore costs $3.00 per session. This booth accepts cash only.
What type of photos does Quimby's Bookstore produce?
Quimby's Bookstore produces classic black-and-white photos with authentic silver halide processing. This is a B&W machine. Unlike digital booths, analog photo booths use real film and chemical development, creating photos with unique characteristics including natural grain, authentic colors, and that distinctive vintage quality that digital can't replicate. Each session produces a strip of usually 4 photos.
Is Quimby's Bookstore currently working?
Quimby's Bookstore is listed as inactive. Verify before visiting. Last verification: Nov 9, 2016.
Where exactly is Quimby's Bookstore located?
Quimby's Bookstore is located at 1854 W. North Ave., Chicago, Illinois, United States. Use the interactive map on this page for exact directions. We also provide Street View where available to help you find the booth.
Are there other photo booths near Quimby's Bookstore?
Yes, our directory includes multiple photo booths in Chicago. Scroll down on this page to see nearby booths listed by distance, or use our map view to explore all photo booth locations in the area. Each booth has its own unique character, so exploring multiple locations can give you different photo experiences.
How long does it take to get my photos?
Analog photo booths use real photochemical processing. After you take your photos, the strip will develop and emerge from the booth in approximately 3-5 minutes. The chemical development creates authentic photos that are ready to keep immediately.
Can I take multiple photo sessions?
Yes, you can take as many photo sessions as you like, with each session requiring a separate payment. Each session typically produces one strip of 4 photos. Many visitors enjoy taking multiple strips to get different poses or to share with friends.
