Kirby Kerr, owner of Rotofugi. View Full Caption DNAinfo/Paul Biasco

LINCOLN PARK — Rotofugi, a beloved designer toy shop that has called Chicago home for more than a decade, is in danger of closing, its owners said Wednesday.

The owners need to come up with about $25,000 in order to stay open, according to Kirby Kerr, who runs the shop, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., with his wife, Whitney.

"The last 6 months have been, frankly, brutal," Kirby Kerr wrote in an email to customers Wednesday.

"Sales of designer toys are down significantly, and while we've made some moves to offer more pop culture figures and things like classes, the fact is that it's not making up for the drop."

A declining interest in collectible toys — not a changing neighborhood or rising rent — led to the dire financial situation, Kirby Kerr said in an interview with DNAinfo Chicago.

A selection of vinyl toys for sale at Rotofugi. View Full Caption DNAinfo/Paul Biasco

Instead of launching an online fundraiser, he and his wife are simply asking customers to come in or shop online to help fill the financial gap. They've also started listing their personal collection on eBay.

"If you'd like to see us stick around, and you've had your eye on a toy or a piece of artwork, now would be a great time for you to buy it. We're not looking for a handout, but at the same time, we need your business now more than we ever have," the email reads.

Kirby Kerr said putting out a call for help was "very difficult," but had to be done.

"I don't want to see something my wife and I love and our livelihood disappear without at least being very forthright and transparent with our customer base," he told DNAinfo.

Over the past 12 years, Rotofugi has grown from a small shop in Ukrainian Village, 1953 W. Chicago Ave., to a "must visit" for enthusiasts around the world.

The only shop of its kind in the Midwest, Rotofugi sells designer toys, including pop culture collectibles and vinyl figurines. It also functions as a gallery space, where local and nationally known artists showcase their work.

It's called Lincoln Park home for the last six years.

In addition to putting out a call for customers, Kirby Kerr said he and his wife are looking to rent out the space for private events and create a craft area for birthday parties to generate more money.

"My wife and I have built our lives around this business, around toys and artwork and sharing them with our customers," he said.

"My entire social circle centers around the store. I've made amazing friendships. The thought of that not being part of my life is scary. But hopefully by being open and honest with people and not throwing in the towel, we'll be able to see some extra business and get this train back on the tracks."

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