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When you visit a comic book shop, you're stepping into a world of wonders. Find out why comic book shops are a great place to discover comics and join a community of people just like you!

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Comic Book Stores Every Collector Should Visit

One of the many reasons comic book fandom is so different from other communities is the role that comic book stores have historically played in the hobby. While comic book stores are technically just a business, they also function as community centers for an areas fans. As such, they are more than just places to buy weekly releases and merchandise. They become a home for friendships and belonging.

But, as mentioned, comic book stores are businesses, and a substantial portion of this industry is buying and selling unique collectors items. While most comic book stores have items specifically for collectors, there are some stores so focused on collectibles that they are must-visit destinations.

Here are some of the comic book stores that every collector should visit.

1) Jay and Silent Bobs Secret Stash

With the announcement that Kevin Smiths cinematic franchise, Clerks , will be returning for a third installment , its a great opportunity to highlight his comic book store. Inspired by the character Smith and Jason Mewes play in View Askewniverse films, the store started out as Comicology: in the mid-90s.

It not only sells merchandise directly connected to Smiths movies , but also has an incredible variety of valuable comic books such as Amazing Spider-Man #1 and Fantastic Four #1, as well as other collectibles.

Given that this shop was also home to the AMC show Comic Book Men and shaped how many people envision what comic book stores look like, the Secret Stash is an incredible destination for collectors.

Address: 65 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701

Hours: Monday 11:00 am 6:00 pm, Tuesday 11:00 am 6:00 pm, Wednesday 11:00 am 6:00 pm, Thursday 11:00 am 6:00 pm, Friday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am 6:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm 5:00 pm

2) Mile High Comics

This store was founded in 1969 by Chuck Rozanski when he was just 13-years-old. While the company was initially run out of his parents basement, Chuck would go on to open a physical store in 1974.

Since then, Mile High Comics has accrued an inventory of over 10 million comic books, 300,000 trade paperbacks, and thousands of other collectibles. This is a collection that towers over the majority of comic book stores in the United States. So, if you are ever in the Denver area, Mile High Comics is a store comic book fans should visit.

Address: 4600 Jason Street, Denver, CO 80211

Hours: Monday Friday 9:00 am 6:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 AM 6:00 PM, Sunday 11 AM 5:00 PM

3) Golden Age Collectables

Founded in 1961, Golden Age Collectables is possibly one of the oldest comic book stores in existence. The star customer of Golden Age in its early years was a teenager named Rod Dyke. He was so proficient at buying comic books and reselling them to his friends that the owners sold him the store in 1971. In addition to hosting events and being filled with various comic books, Golden Age Collectables is a pillar of Seattles fan community.

Also, with the stores owner believing that Golden Age Collectables is a dish best served hot and in-person, you can only buy products from them in the stores physical location. So, each visit is a unique experience because one never knows what the store has available for sale.

Address: 1501 Pike Place #401, Seattle, WA 98101

Hours: Sunday 9:30 am 7:00 pm, Mon thru Wed 9:30 am 6:00 pm, Thurs thru Sat 9:30 am 7:00 pm

4) House of Secrets

The secret origin for House of Secrets dates to 1991, when Paul Grimshaw founded ACME Comics in Montrose, California. In 1996, Grimshaw moved himself and the store to Burbank, CA., and renamed it House of Secrets. Its location near the L.A. entertainment industry has enabled the store to acquire incredible collectibles and become a home-away-from-home for the areas geek community.

Address: 1930 W Olive St, Burbank, CA 91506

Hours: Monday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Tuesday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Wednesday 11:00 am 8:30 pm, Thursday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Friday 11:00 am 8:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am 5:00 pm

5) Midtown Comics

With the opening of a store in Times Square, Midtown Comics was founded in 1997 and quickly became the comic book store in New York City. The store not only has an incredible array of high-quality graded comic books and other collectibles, but has also become the go to store for NYC and national media outlets, and was also the home for the short-lived reality show Comic Store Heroes .

Simply put, if you are a comic book fan visiting New York City and you can only visit one shop, Midtown Comics is a must-visit destination.

Address: Times Square 200 W. 40th Street (corner of 7th Ave), New York, NY 10018

Hours: Mon-Tue 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Wednesday 8:00 am 9:00 pm, Thursday thru Saturday 11:00 am -9:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm -7:00 pm

6) Back to the Past

Located about an hour northwest of Detroit, Back to the Past was founded in 1990 and has become a pillar of the areas comic book and collectors communities. In addition to selling new comic books, valuable back issues, and a variety of other merchandise , the store has been hosting live auction events since 2011 and is much more of an auction house these days than a traditional comic book store. Their success allowed them in 2020 to expand to a new facility with a gallery showroom and 10,000 feet of warehouse.

With a 100% approval rating on eBay, Back to the Past is a welcoming location for new and old fans alike.

Address: 50420 Dennis Court, Wixom, Michigan 48393

Hours: Monday By Appointment, Tuesday By Appointment, Wednesday 10:00 am 7:00 pm, Thursday By Appointment, Friday By Appointment, Saturday 10:00 am 7:00 pm, Sunday By Appointment

7) Austin Books & Comics

As home to South by Southwest and various other companies, Austin, TX is a hub for technology, media, and entertainment. Present in Austin since 1977 is Austin Books & Comics, one of the biggest and longest-running comics and pop culture stores in the area. This store has not only been a Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retail finalist multiple times, it is also in The Austin Chronicle s Best Of Hall of Fame.

Beyond those highlights, this store has incredibly rare back issues , a rich array of new issues, and hosts book clubs as well as other events. In short, Austin Books & Comics is a nexus for the collectors and comics community.

Address: 5002 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, Texas

Hours: Monday 1:00 pm 7:00 pm, Tuesday 1:00 pm 7:00 pm, Wednesday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Thursday 1:00 pm 7:00 pm, Friday 1:00 pm 7:00 pm, Saturday 1:00 pm 7:00 pm, Sunday 1:00 pm 7:00 pm

8) Alternate Reality Comics

Established in 1987 as Dungeon Comics, the store was renamed Alternate Reality Comics when Ralph Mathieu purchased it in 1995. Owning a comic book store not only allowed Mathieu to indulge in and share his lifelong love of comic books, but it was the place in which he met his wife, Katherine. Alternate Reality Comics is also home to new comic books, classic collectible comics, and a wide variety of unique merchandise.

In short, this store is filled with passion and incredible content.

Address: 4110 S Maryland Pkwy, #8, Las Vegas, NV 89119

Hours: Monday Tuesday 11:00 am 6:00 pm, Wednesday Saturday 10:00 am 7:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am 6:00 pm

9) Coliseum of Comics

Tampa, FL is home to several incredible attractions. From beautiful beaches, great museums, and cuisine from all over the world. Tampa is also a prime destination for comic book fans. The city is home to the Tampa Bay Comic Convention as well as Metrocon. For those more interested in a traditional comic book experience, there is also the Tampa location for Coliseum of Comics.

In addition to Coliseum of Comics being covered wall-to-wall with comic books and other collectibles, it regularly hosts game nights and has an active presence in local conventions.

Address: 19402 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, FL 33647

Hours: Monday Wednesday 10:00 am 7:00 pm, Thursday Saturday 10:00 am 8:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

10) Gods & Monsters

Orlando is one of the top destinations for geeks and nerds. Home to Disney World theme parks, Universal Studios, and various other pop culture attractions. For comic book fans wanting a more authentic experience, Gods & Monsters is a must-see location. In addition to it being part traditional retail store, it also has a post-apocalyptic gaming bar, and an escape experience.

Basically, Gods & Monsters offers an experience few other stores can come close to mimicking.

Address: 5421 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819

Hours: Monday 12:00 pm 5:00 pm, Tuesday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Wednesday Thursday 11:00 am 10:00 pm, Friday 11:00 am 11:45 pm, Saturday 11:00 am 11:45 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm 5:00 pm.

11) MaximuM Comics

Las Vegas is not only home to almost every type of trill a person can legally purchase, it is also home to several great comic book stores. The second store from Sin City to be included in MaximuM Comics. Only founded in 2007, MaximuM Comics quickly became the largest comic book chain in the state.

By hosting parties, signings, and events as well as selling comic books, MaximuM Comics became another gathering point for comic book fans. Moreover, MaximuM also sells an eclectic array of rare comic books and collectibles.

Address: 5130 S. Ft. Apache #285, Las Vegas, NV 89148

Hours: Monday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Tuesday Closed, Wednesday 9:00 am 7:00 pm, Thursday Friday 11:00 am 7:00 pm, Saturday Sunday 10:00 am 7:00 pm

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7 Awesome Comic Book Shops To Visit in NYC

Is there anything more nostalgic than flipping through old comics? Comic books have come a long way over the years, and there is no better place to browse collections than New York City. The Big Apple is rich in comic book history. Many popular cartoonists were born and worked in the city when their comic careers took off. Even your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man swings from tall skyscrapers in Manhattan. If you’re an avid collector, or just enjoy the occasional read, comic shops are a great place to pass the time. Here are some of the best places to buy comics in NYC.

1. Midtown Comics

Downtown: 64 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10038 | (212) 302-8192 | midtowncomics.com Grand Central: 459 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10017 | (212) 302-8192 Times Square: 200 W. 40th Street, New York, NY 10018 | (212) 302-8192

Midtown Comics / Photo Courtesy of Midtown Comics

Midtown Comics is the largest comic book store in the country. The shop has been running strong since they first opened their doors in 1997. They have an extensive collection of new issues, action figures, and graphic novels.  If you’re on the hunt for back issues, check out the second floor. That’s right, this is a multi-level comic book shop! You can easily spend a couple hours browsing here. A must-see in the city for any comic buff. They have three locations in NYC.

2. JHU Comics

East 33rd Street, 481 3rd Ave #5503, New York, NY 10016 | (212) 268-7088 | jhucomicbooks.com

JHU Comics / Photo Courtesy of Brecht Bug / Flickr

JHU comics was once known as Jim Hanley’s Universe, a long-standing player in the city's comic community. You can visit the original Staten Island store which has been serving comic geeks since the 1980s. JHU Comics opened a brand spankin‘ new shop in April 2018. At JHU you’ll find everything from mainstream to mini comics, gaming supplies, action figures, trading cards and more. If you’d rather play Magic The Gathering or Pokemon, their Staten Island shop has sanctioned gaming tournaments. The staff is knowledgeable, passionate, and ready to help find what you’re looking for.

3. Forbidden Planet

832 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 | (212) 473-1576 | fpnyc.com

Forbidden Planet Comics / Photo Courtesy of Alistair McMillan / Flickr

Named after the classic 1956 Fantasy film, Forbidden Planet is a must-see for any Sci-Fi geek. The shop is located right next to the popular Strand Bookstore near Union Square. At Forbidden Planet, you’ll find a large collection of graphic novels, comics and games. They even have an awesome blog if you’re looking to kill time at work, I mean… on the subway.

4. Royal Collectibles

9601 Metropolitan Ave # 1, Flushing, NY 11375 | (718) 793-0542 | royalcomicsnyc.com

Royal Collectibles / Photo Courtesy of Royal Collectibles

Royal Collectibles is your friendly neighborhood comic shop. The personable staff will treat you like family as you browse the varied collections of books, cards, and collectibles. They also have a very impressive assortment of Funko Pop Figures. If you subscribe to their free pull list service, you’ll save 10% off the cover price of new issues. When you shop at Royal Collectibles, you’re supporting a true mom and pop business. Recently, they even donated comics to the children’s ward at a local hospital! Be sure to take a photo in front of their outside mural, it‘s beautiful .

For sports memorabilia or gaming cards, you’ll want to visit their second location, Royal Sports and Entertainment .

5. Alex’s MVP Cards and Comics

1577 York Ave, New York, NY 10028 | (212) 831-2273 | alexsmvp.com

Alexs MVP Comic Book Shop / Photo Courtesy of Alexs MVP

This family-owned shop is small, but it's packed with interesting memorabilia. A must-see stop if you’re a collector of vintage sports cards. Please don‘t eat any of the gum that many accompany the vintage cards though! They have been long-standing since 1988 and continue to serve the community with their vast assortment of items.

6. Carmine Street Comics

34 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014 | (646) 656-1022 | carminestreetcomics.com

Carmine St Comics / Photo Courtesy of Brecht Bug / Flickr

Carmine Street Comics is unique because it's not only a comic shop, it’s also a studio. They host an open mic every weekend and regular comedy shows in their intimate, cozy space. This comic store is more than a place to purchase books, it's a community of awesome people. Stop in for signings, stand-up, or just your weekly comic. Check out their calendar of events to see what’s happening at Carmine Street Comics.

7. Kinokuniya New York

1073 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018 | (212) 869-1700 | usa.kinokuniya.com

Kinokuniya NYC / Photo Courtesy of Kinokuniya

Kinokuniya is a Japanese-based retailer specializing in manga, Asian books, stationary, and gifts. To be honest, it's an amazing Japanese version of Barnes & Noble. Right across the street from Bryant Park, it's easy to find and well worth the visit. Grab a bubble tea in their cafe and wander through. They also have an amazing selection of pens and stationary. A great place for unique gifts and Japanese goods.

Where are your favorite places to buy comics in NYC? Did I forget one of your favorite comic shops? Leave a comment and let me know. I'll pay a visit on my next trip to the Big Apple!

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The 6 Best Comic Book Stores in Denver

From welcoming shops for comic-curious newbies to collectors’ paradises, these are our favorite comic book stores in and around the Mile High City.

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For hardcore comic collectors, often nothing beats their LCS (local comic shop): somewhere close enough to home to rush over when their TBR runs low, when new comics are released, or, even better, where they can submit a pull list and have their favorites ordered and held for them. Luckily for fans of the image-driven storytelling genre, the Denver metro area has a good number of such dependable, homey hangouts. (We hear great things about Cobalt Comics and Collectibles in Aurora, Boulder’s Time Warp Comics , and JNJ Comic Books and Games in Thornton.)

But there are also comic book shops that are true destinations for Coloradans looking for rare Silver Age titles. For out-of-town cosplay enthusiasts visiting for Fan Expo Denver (the Mile High City’s annual comics/sci-fi/gaming convention). For MCU fans interested in learning more about Miles Morales’ storyline. For casual shoppers in search of the perfect gift for the comic book lover in their life.

If you fit into any of the categories above, check out these six Denver-area comic book shops. And if you don’t? Go nerd out anyway. You can often score new floppies for about $5, which is a small price to pay to feel like a kid again reading about your favorite superheroes saving the day—or, perhaps, to discover an offbeat indie title that makes you fall in love with comics for the first time.

Danny the Comic Shop

Unlike most comic stores, this new-in-summer-2023 Lakewood locale isn’t dominated by recognizable superheroes and villains from the Big Two. Instead, Danny the Comic Shop (the name is a riff on Danny the Street, a genderqueer character from DC’s Doom Patrol ) has a neatly curated collection that centers diverse authors from indie publishers and inclusive storylines so that no matter your race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, you can see yourself as a hero. The website has helpful categories—middle-grade immigrant, refugee, and minority stories; critically acclaimed and groundbreaking; Black girl heroes—but we recommend stopping by during the small store’s limited evening and weekend hours to let proprietor Cliff Thompson lead you to your new favorite title. There’s a bookcase dedicated to youth and tween reads as well as more mature content: On a recent visit, he, ahem, turned us on to Sex Criminals , a very adult series (the protagonists stop time by orgasming, and then rob banks) that’s as original and funny as it is steamy. 1580 Teller St., Lakewood

Enchanted Grounds

A coffeeshop meets gaming mecca with locations in Littleton and Highlands Ranch, Enchanted Grounds (established 2006) doesn’t have the metro area’s biggest selection of comics. But its laid-back cafe atmosphere makes it an approachable environment for those new to the graphic novel and tabletop scene. Buy a latte made with locally roasted Coda Coffee to sip while you peruse cooperative board games like Castle Panic; Ravensburger puzzles; Marvel Champions: The Card Game packs and Magic: The Gathering foils; and newly released floppies. During the day, its reservable tables—generously sized to accommodate sprawling game setups—fill with laptop-tapping remote workers and retirees playing mahjong, while regulars come in for role-playing game gatherings at night. 3615 W. Bowles Ave. #5, Littleton; 8800 S. Colorado Blvd., Highlands Ranch

Hall of Justice Comics & Collectibles

This comic emporium, tucked between a kickboxing studio and an autobody shop southeast of Centennial Airport in Parker, is worth the drive from Denver and beyond, thanks to its unique combination of approachability and authority. Originally an online retailer, Hall of Justice opened into its first brick-and-mortar in 2015 then moved to its current space, tripling in size, in fall of 2022. There’s truly something for everyone in its clean, bright 6,600 square feet: Hold slots are filled with new releases for subscribers; a kids section has youth-appropriate comics, books, and toys; pre-made sets of various series (e.g., Joss Whedon’s Firefly , #1 through #12) make great gifts; and a locked glass case displays special items like a $3,800 Len Wein–signed original Giant-Size X-Men #1 . Staff give you space to browse but seem genuinely excited to talk about, and help you track down, whatever single issue, graphic novel, or Funko Pop! figurine you’re looking for—a refreshing lack of gatekeeping in what can be an intimidating scene. 10136 Parkglenn Way #109, Parker

Mile High Comics

As you park in the chain-link-fence-enclosed lot and cross now-defunct railroad tracks to enter Mile High Comics ’ massive Sunnyside warehouse, it kind of feels like you’re slinking through an abandoned part of Gotham City. A rainbow-striped platform leading to a red door, however, indicates that you’ve found the lair of America’s (self-anointed) largest comics retailer. With more than 10 million comics stashed in alphabetized filing boxes, 20-foot-high wall displays, and employee-only areas, Mile High Comics is very likely to have just about anything collectors are looking for—plenty of variant covers and even rare Gold, Silver, and Bronze Age issues. And if it doesn’t? Simply add it to your Want List via the store’s website to be notified via email if it comes in. Although you can order online, we suggest picking up in person so you have an excuse to wander the labyrinth of collectibles and graphic novels that also reside in the 45,000-square-foot shop—a significant upgrade from where the store began: in the basement of owner Chuck Rozanski’s childhood home back in 1969. 4600 Jason St.

Mutiny Information Cafe

In a corner building with a long history as a used bookstore, Mutiny , opened in its current form in 2013, smells like musty tomes, tastes like single-origin coffee, sounds like pinball machines dinging in the back, and looks like the kind of poster-covered hideout from which you’d plot a revolution. In other words, this staple of South Broadway exudes counterculture cool. New and used comics—including a manga section, bins with $1 and $2 floppies, and graphic novels—make up a large part of the inventory. If you need to offload some of your own collection, you can set up an appointment with “the Professor” to sell unwanted issues for cash…or store credit to reinvest at Mutiny’s live and streaming comic book auctions. Follow the shop’s comic-specific Facebook and Instagram accounts to hear about author signings and other events. 2 S. Broadway

Vision Comics & Oddities

If you’re into metal music, horror movies, and comic books, this haunt on Sheridan’s South Federal Boulevard, born in 2016, is for you. If you’re not—well, proceed with caution. In addition to rows upon rows of old and new comics, you’ll run into creepy character replicas and a collectible-filled mausoleum in the carnival-themed space. The macabre vibe leans more fun than frightening, though, and Vision hosts family-friendly community events. In particular, Star Wars fans will find plenty of paraphernalia to fill their curio cabinets along with their bookshelves. 3958 S. Federal Blvd., Englewood

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200 W. 40th Street (corner of 7th Ave) · New York, NY 10018

The 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, A, B, C, D, E, F, N, R, W and Q lines all stop at a 42nd Street/Times Square station. We are located within two blocks of any of these stations.

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Monday & Tuesday: 11AM-7PM

Wednesday: 8AM-9PM

Thursday-Saturday: 11AM-9PM

Sunday: 12PM-7PM

Our first store, Midtown Comics Times Square, opened in July 1997.

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Safari Pearl

Review Highlights

“ They also have a large collection of board games, comic books, costumes, wigs and theatrical makeup all year round. ” in 4 reviews

“ They had basically everything a nerd could want. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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660 W Pullman Rd

Moscow, ID 83843

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About the business.

We are your source on the Palouse for comics, non-electronic games, costumes, and theatrical make-up. We carry a full line of new comics, graphic novels, back issues, and collecting supplies. We also have a great selection of board games, card games, and Warhammer. Feel free to try a game or join an event in our store game room. We also stock costumes and have a complete selection of Ben Nye theatrical make-up all year. …

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Overall rating

Great service, helpful employees, and a cute dog. They have everything a nerd would ever need.

I was visiting from out of town and we stopped by here three time while we were here for a week. First to see what they had. This is a considerably larger store than the one we have in our town. They had basically everything a nerd could want. DND books and minis, magic cards, Pokémon, half of the store was cosplay stuff, mangas, war hammer, and other rpg and tabletop games. They had a reasonably sized play area that we could see. We intended on coming to the Friday night Magic events that they host but sadly we're unable to make it. The store was clean and the people were friendly and helpful. One of the cool features that they have is a tablet in store that you can search for cards through. You can also get the app and leisurely search at home and they will have the cards ready for pick up.

Eh. Some costumes and lingerie. This store can't seem to decide if it's selling comics and memorabilia or lingerie and adult toys. Fairly large location though and the stock rotates often so this may be the right store for you. You will not have an issue parking because the lot has about twenty spaces. Downtown Moscow also has street parking so hooray! The staff is generally friendly and knowledgeable. As in any store that all depends on the day and who helps you. Prices are fair on most items. As far as the adult items they do mark things up but being in Moscow you don't really have a lot of items for some of their merchandise. Amazon is bigger now so hopefully management will tweak prices accordingly to keep it competitive. If you're grabbing a few extra accessories for a costume or Halloween party this is your local spot. Read Bri T. and Kevin C's review for more comic and costume section details!

I do not understand the negative reviews of this store. The employees were quick to help anytime I had any questions and even told us about the free module Saturdays. The unique thing about this store is that it is not a toxic atmosphere like you may experience at the downtown Pullman gaming store. It has gaming of all types such as cards, board games, and table top rpg's. There is also costuming which I think fits quite well with the rest of the store as many gamers enjoy cosplay and the like. It was clean, the employees were respectful and were quick to remove negative customers who were rude, inappropriate and disruptive. I cannot praise this store enough. Most certainly the best gaming store around.

Wide selection of games from children to adult. Lots of Warhammer and D&D merchandise. Not a large selection of comics in store but I believe they will order whatever you want. Costumes/cosplay stuff rotates throughout the year, and the hidden adult-toy area has an okay selection. But I will definitely recommend this store for board games and Warhammer!!

I really like the selection of games here. We got The Battle of Hogwarts here and play it weekly. Have the expansion pack, too. Also enjoy the Fantastic Beasts Perilous Pursuits and Pandemic. The folks there have always been helpful and knowledgeable

I went here today because the costume portion of the store was recommended to me by a good friend. I was also told there is a sex-toy shop in the back room that I should check out. First off, as I was looking through the costumes, I was consistently followed by an employee as if I was going to steal something. They have just one dressing room, and the employee stands outside the dressing room the entire time, making you feel uncomfortable and rushed. Second, after showing an older female employee my ID to enter the sex shop, she ordered a younger male employee to be in there while I was. He followed me around the entire time I was in the sex shop, and it was very uncomfortable. I do not appreciate the lack of privacy that was given while looking at such a....personal election of items. If a female is going into the sex shop, they should have a female employee in there - and perhaps one that doesn't follow you around everywhere. I absolutely will not be back.

I was really disappointed in this store. I came in looking for comic book recommendations and was pretty much ignored. When I finally was able to get some help, it seemed as if I was inconveniencing the store. The store layout is weird and the selection is very limited. I felt kinda awkward the whole time I was in the store. The stores prices are rather high and they don't do any sales or promotions either. So I would recommend going to someone else in town or just shopping online. I won't go back.

Safari Pearl is a fun locally owned business. Their new location is awesome; I really like the bright and friendly atmosphere. I found all my gaming supplies here. They also have a large collection of board games, comic books, costumes, wigs and theatrical makeup all year round. It is fun just to see what they have in stock. They were willing to special order items that my friends needed. The staff was knowledgeable about their products and friendly. I also like how Safari Pearl participates and donates their time in local events.

For a comic shop, it has a really minuscule selection of comics. There are a couple shelves against the side of the wall, but the amount of current comics is almost non-existent. Then there's a couple tables with older selections of comics, which I appreciated. Please correct me if I am wrong, but if you want to get a subscription box, it's pretty pricey. I asked the cashier at the time and she told me that you pay for your box, then you also pay per series you want to subscribe to, then, of course, you pay for your comic as well. There are no other benefits other than that you are guaranteed a copy of whatever you're subscribed to. It was being justified that it's due to the fluctuation of college students coming in and out, so you also have to pay to cancel your box as well. Aside from the comics, there were also TCG -- mainly Magic, figurines, board games, and costumes. It seemed like this store tried too hard to do everything that it doesn't have much of anything. Despite the lack of items, my visit was still pretty pleasant as the cashier was friendly and helpful. If I'm ever out in this area again, it's hard to say if I'll go out of my way to revisit.

6 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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Best Comic Book Shops in Pittsburgh

Crash! Bang! Zoom into these local shops

The Setting: Pittsburgh, PA...

Much like independent bookstores and vinyl record shops , the locally owned comic book shop thrives in Pittsburgh, fitting perfectly into the 90 neighborhoods that make our super city into a connected universe of awesomeness.

Comic book shops are a chance to meet our heroes, passionate shop owners, re-live the collections you had in childhood and maybe even discover something new you'd like to start reading and collecting. Pittsburgh doesn't need a flashy costume or an alter-ego, our shops speak to our neighborly feel you can find anywhere in the city.

This Looks Like A Job For...

But you don't need Robin to fetch you the Bat Sonar to find the best selection of comics, manga and graphic novels. We've put together the list of 12 of our favorite stops throughout the city to find new releases, local comics and more:

Be The Real Hero | Buy and Support Local

I love Marvel, DC and Image! They're wonderful. But as you browse these comic shops, take note of how many offer extensive store space to local artists and creators and consider adding an issue or two to your normal pull.

Just one example is Comicsburgh , a group of Burgh-based creators churning out original series all with the gorgeous inkwork, stellar writing and engaging characters you'd expect from a major publisher. Many of these even include references to Pittsburgh, overt and otherwise (issue #1 of Heroineburgh involves a ghostly battle in the Cathedral of Learning).

Comicsburgh has something for everyone. With their gritty take on the superhero squad featured in The Edge , the fantasy/humor trappings of Beowulf, the mystery of The Theme of Thieves and femme fatales of Heroineburgh, I'm sure you'll find a series you love! These stories are larger than life, with trailers and in-person events in the Burgh to celebrate issue releases, a video download series featuring the cast of Heroineburgh and more that makes Comicsburgh a great group of creators to keep your eye on.

Phantom of the Attic

Full disclosure: I've been going to Phantom of the Attic (Monroeville location) for more than decade and am always happy to tell people this is my go-to place. For avid collectors, their subscription service is perfect regardless of how much you want to spend; everyone here is treated the same and they will be happy to order in and hold any comics for you. They also have a massive selection of back issues, walls and walls of graphic novels and some fun collectibles as well. But why I always come back to Phantom is for the friendly faces. Regardless of when I go in, there's a buzz near the register as fellow fans discuss the latest plot twists, major Marvel movies, etc. and I always end up shopping for five minutes but staying for an hour to chat. Although independently owned, you can also find Phantom of the Attic locations in Green Tree and Oakland, both of which I love as well.

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K&J Comics

Located in West View, K&J Comics has already made a name for itself for inclusivity, top notch customer service and their shop dog, Rocky! Don't worry if you make a new friend as you browse the comics, toys and extensive card game selection in one of the city's newest shops.

New Dimension Comics

Stores of this comic book chain down western PA from Ellwood City all the way into Pittsburgh, but for this blog we're focusing on their Waterfront location . Taking up the same square footage as a big box store in this shopping hotspot, New Dimension has entire walls dedicated to comics and graphic novels, along with a great loyalty program to help repeat customers save even more! But, that's just the beginning. Action figures and statues line glass cases, entire sections of the store are dedicated to miniatures and model kits and events are held featuring meet-n-greets with comic book writers, voiceover artists, cosplayers and other pop culture celebs! My kids and I can each explore in here for hours and always find a new treasure to take home.

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Doomed Planet Comics

Sharing a building with Kaibur Coffee on Polish Hill, Doomed Planet Comics is the new name for The Copacetic Comics Company ! One of the smallest shops in square footage Don't worry; their focus hasn't changed and you still won't find the latest Superman here on Wednesdays. Instead, Doomed Planet focuses entirely on independent, small press, creator-owned and locally produced comics. If this sounds daunting, the expert staff are there to help! Let them help you find a new series or graphic novel, or check out the Made in Pittsburgh table to support the fantastic local comics creators right here in the city.

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Eide's Entertainment

Located right by the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Downtown Pittsburgh, Eide's is overflowing with pop culture, comics and collectibles through four floors of shopping. Head to the basement level for their incredible selection of back issues from the bronze to gold ages of comics then be sure to explore everywhere for records, DVDs and Blu-Rays and all of the superhero ephemera you could ever ask for in one of the oldest comic shops in the country.

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Bill & Walt's Hobby Shop

Located on the other end of Downtown by Point Park University is Bill & Walt's Hobby Shop, a place that exemplifies the term hidden gem. This tiny shop is packed with the latest comics plus miniatures, board games, table top RPGs and more, all with excellent customer service to make you feel welcome. Be sure to explore their unmatched selection of $1 comics to find the missing piece to your collection or start collecting an entirely new comic!

Mustang Comics

For the ultimate collector looking for the highest grade of collector comics, check out Mustang Comics in Regent Square. Once you've found your new frame-worthy comic, be sure to browse their huge selection of Funko Pops, signed hockey and celebrity memorabilia and much more. This is a perfect place to shop for the collector you love.

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Geekadrome: Games and Comics

Located in Brookline, Geekadrome does a bit of everything in the realm of nerd culture, and does it all well. They're sure to have the latest comics in stock, and happy to help you find whatever you're looking for if you're looking for something special. Add on an ever-growing selection of board games, back issues, graphic novels, card games and more, and you can see why this small shop packs a superhuman punch.

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Secret Manga

For those who prefer reading their comics from right to left, Secret Manga in Bellevue is where you need to be. Not only is this shop stuffed with the latest manga and classic series, it's owned by a local artist who keeps the store stocked with art supplies and other media created by independent artists. Get the latest issue of Chainsaw Man, the full box set of your favorite series from childhood or a new favorite plushie; this place is a haven for Japanese culture!

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Pop Culture Comics & Toys

With locations north (Glenshaw) and south (Brookline/Overbrook) of the city, this comic shop is the kind of place you can look for hours and still discover something new. Comics remain a huge focus here but memorabilia, new action figures, hard-to-find collectibles and so much more blanket every square inch of these shops. Star Wars, wrestling, horror...you can find it all at Pop Culture Comics , no matter the niche!

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Pittsburgh Comics

Never judge a book by its cover, or a comic book store by the outside. This unassuming spot in McMurray is worth the drive with an interior packed with new and back issues, statues, memorabilia, graphic novels and more with friendly owners happy to help you find your way. Plus, friendly doggos great you as you enter the store! Customer service doesn't get any better than Pittsburgh Comics .

South Side Comics

If your travels take you south of the city to the Baldwin/Pleasant Hills area, make sure a stop at South Side Comics is on your itinerary. Even if you don't, this shop is known for shipping the issues you need (including specializing in exclusive variant covers) to all 50 states quickly and in mint condition.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by South Side Comics (@south_side_comics)

Special Events

The Pittsburgh comics scene continues to thrive not only at local stores but at fantastic cons, shows, expos and other special events. Mark your calendars now for:

• Pittsburgh Comic Book Show - May 19, 2024. Two floors of nothing but comics at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in the Shouth Hills.
• 3 Rivers Comic Con - June 1-2, 2024. Get your comic-on with 200 vendors, cosplay contests, panels with local and national comic book creators and more at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
• Steel City Con - Multiple dates each year. Next Show: April 12-14, 2024. Primarily a place to meet your favorite pop culture icons for photos and autographs, the huge vendor area is always full of comic book sales from the shops above as well as local creators at a new location TBD.
• Tekko - July 18-21, 2024. Enjoy reading old and new manga with your friends at the manga library, and check out the vendor market for more amazing art and budding mangaka at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
• Pittsburgh Gaming Expo - Oct. 4-6, 2024. Primarily focused on table top gaming and video games, the Gaming Expo also features a giant vendors market featuring local authors, artists and creatives in the comic scene.
• Free Comic Book Day - May 4, 2024. The best day to visit your local comic book shop as exclusive issues are given away for free along with specials and more exciting events at participating locations. Always held the first Saturday in May.

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Finding rare and collectable comics can be hard work. But not at Quality Comix.

With over 20 years of experience, accurate grading, lightning-fast shipping, and vintage comics added to our stock daily, that rare comic book that your collection deserves is just a few clicks away!

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Dear Comic Book Collector.

Hi, I'm Brent Moeshlin, CEO and founder of Quality Comix.

For over 20 years I have been involved in the Comic Book industry.

But my passion for comics started when I was a young boy. Visiting the local comic book store was the highlight of my week.

However, it wasn't until I finished a 4-year career in the Military that I started to become involved in the buying and selling of comic books online.

I took an old collection of comics that had gathered dust in my garage and sold them online for a 900% increase in profit.

From that moment I was hooked and shortly after Quality Comix was born.

Our mission, to treat comic books and comic book collectors with the respect they deserve and create a marketplace where the buying and selling of comics is stress-free, professional, risk-free and fast.

And over 20 years later, Quality Comix has become the number 1 vintage comic company in the world.

Because we don't just deal in comic books.

We love comic books.

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Buy the comic books you love and let us take care of the rest!

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How To Sell Your Comic Book Collection In 3 Easy Steps

At Quality Comix we understand how frustrating the comic book sales process can be.

That's why we created a simple, safe and fair way to sell your comic book collection!

Step 1: Submit your list of comics along with some photos to our online form and our experienced team of grading staff will get to work on your valuation.

Step 2: Once our team has valued your comics, we will get in touch to let you know the price.

Step 3: We provide an iron clad agreement to purchase, we pay for your shipping, your funds are then either directly deposited into your account or a cashier's check is overnighted to you within 24 hours!

Learn More about Selling Your Collection

The Ultimate Guide To Selling Your Comic Collection

Selling your comic collection can be full of pitfalls, pros and cons. And we want you to make the best decision for yourself.

That's why we created The Ultimate Guide To Selling Your Comic Collection.

A FREE E-book that will teach you all there is to know about selling your collection.

From auction houses to comic brokers, from grading to online valuation tools, we cover it all.

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Very buttoned up & professional. Pleasure dealing with them. Sold them my 550 comic cllection, & understood exactly why I received the offer I accepted (very fair). No cherry picking of top key comics only. Total package in regard to grading & explaining keys & tiers. Very timely in regards to communication & payout. As former corporate Director of Sales, will give them a 10 of 10. Bill A

When I decided to sell my collection of 850 marvel comics, I turned to Quality Comics and entrusted them with my whole collection which initially gave me high anxiety. But from the initial contact with Lee from Quality Comics all the way through the process of them receiving my comics till the very end where they gave me a very fair price for the whole collection, I was reassured that they respected my collection as much as I did. It was all about trusting them through the whole process, which I did, due to their constant contact, reassurance and integrity. I would whole-heartily recommend their services for your collection. Thomas S

I can only say that my experience with Quality Comics, and more specifically Lee whom I worked with there was spectacular! Lee walked me through the whole process of selling my collection from the 1960s - early 2000s. I priced and graded my collection before agreeing to sell, and we came out at almost the same evaluation. Actually Lee and Q. C. came out with a higher evaluation than what I had hoped for ! A very positive experience from beginning to end. These are GOOD people and I highly recommend them if you have a collection you are considering selling. Mark M

What an absolute pleasure of a company to deal with. Selling your comic collection can be a daunting task, especially if you have a lot of comics. In my case I had over 15,000 comics in 37 long boxes. I had made a few calls and every other place I was dealing with insisted I had to make the first offer. Well I had no idea what the worth was. Finally I found Quality Comix and Lee. They made the process so easy, even to the point of helping me to get pallets and arranging for the shipping. They were also incredibly patient while I dealt with carrying all of those boxes up the stair to my garage for pick-up. Rather than just giving me an off the cuff price they actually took the time to sort through the comics, grade them and came back with a really fair offer. They left me feeling really comfortable that I got a fair offer for my comics. I give Quality Comix my best recommendation. You won't be sorry if you deal with them. Chris M

I can’t say enough good things about Quality Comix. Lee called me within 2 hours of uploading my comic book collection for his review. He was kind and had a genuineness in his voice that instantly made me believe that I was dealing with an authentic business that wasn’t out to take me knowing I had ZERO knowledge in comic book values. He promptly sent instructions on packing my collection for shipment and provided prepaid shipping labels. After careful review I was made an offer for my collection that I accepted. I believed it to be a very fair offer. If you’re in the business of selling a comic book collection look no further. Quality Comix in my opinion is second to none. Thank you, Lee, for a good experience from beginning to end! Gary L

After months of careful research and considering many options in selling my collection of silver age comics, there was only one I placed my trust in - Quality Comix (QC). Give QC a chance to prove they value you and your collection equally. I did, and would do again without reservation. Prior to talking to Lee Daniels of QC, my mind was locked that: (1) It’s crazy to sell and ship comics worth tens of thousands of dollars to Alabama from California to an unknown company. (2) Selling through a local comic book store, or over eBay myself is more profitable, and safer, than using an internet bulk buyer. I was WRONG on BOTH COUNTS. Lee addressed point blank all my concerns and really listened to my issues in a genuine, professional, knowledgeable, courteous, patient, mentoring, and consultative manner. QC checked off all the boxes ... A+ Better Business Bureau rating. A near perfect five star google rating with 369+ reviews. A huge veteran run retail presence. But equally important to me is working with a trusted person, and how easy is it to do business. Lee, and QC are one in the same. Our deal was seamless and he gave me a very fair market valuation to turn comics into cash. Ron C

I don’t typically write reviews but the folks at Quality Comix were very impressive and deserve kudos! Lee made the process amazingly easy; He clearly explained the process and did not try to blow smoke. I really liked the packing videos they supplied to help me protect my comics during shipment. Lee followed up at each step to update me on the progress. When it was over, he took time to explain the evaluation of my collection and made me a very fair offer. Ted P

There is a reason Quality Comix has across the board 5 star reviews. They really are the best. My middle school age daughter inherited a cardboard box full of comics from my Dad. Smart kid that she is, she immediately started looking them up on eBay. She quickly realized that her box of comics was pretty exciting. After some research she came across Quality Comix and their amazing reviews. She submitted her list of comics and Lee called us the next day. To say that Lee is a total kick to talk to is an understatement. He walked us through our list of over 100 comics, shared amazing advice and insider knowledge, and gave us a solid idea of what we had in our new collection. This was the point at which Lee could have just given us a number and offered to buy our comics. Instead, he asked my daughter what she planned to do with the money. When she said is was for college, he advised her to get the most valuable comics graded and let them appreciate in value. Let that sink in. After 45 minutes on the phone giving us tons of info Lee didn't push for a sale. He told my daughter to keep her comics. We are both super grateful for the knowledge we now have about her comics and the chance to watch them appreciate over the next few years. When she's ready to sell, you know we'll be calling Quality Comix. They're the real deal, a business with people doing the right thing and having a fun time doing it. Tracy K

I'm really glad I found Lee Wheeler and Quality Comix. Parting ways with my Spider-Man collection (dating back to 1967) was a big deal, a rite of passage even. Lee was straightforward and kind with his correspondence from the start. Also patient as I prepared my collection for a sale. Once we agreed on a price, the transaction details/process were seamless, and across a few hundred miles (not a given). Those comic books delivered countless smiles over my first 53 years. I'm glad they left with a smile, courtesy of Lee and Quality Comix. Frank M

The Quality Comix Promise

With over 20 years of experience in the trading of comic books, when you buy from Quality Comix you are in safe hands.

However, to ensure you receive a high-quality and consistent service, we developed what we call the Quality Comix Promise.

At the heart of our promise is our core 3 core commitments.

• We promise to LISTEN to you, our customers.
• We promise to provide a HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE with each and every interaction you have with our business.
• And we promise that we treat any comic that comes through our hands with RESPECT AND CARE

When you trust Quality Comix with your comic book collection we will move mountains to ensure comics are treated as if they were priceless works of art.

Because in our eyes, they are.

That is the Quality Comix difference.

So, take a look through our inventory of comics .

Download our FREE ebook , check out the price of your comic collection and if you have any questions on either buying or selling comics, give us a call .

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Welcome to our webstore!

Our showroom is in the National Hills Shopping Center! Over 7000 square feet of comics, toys, games, sports cards and autographed memorabilia!! 2701 Washington Rd Suite 11, Augusta GA 30909

New items arrive every day! Stop in and see us soon!

Augusta's Favorite place for Comics, Collectibles, Sports Cards and Gaming!

With over 30 years in the comics and sports card industry, we offer a one stop shop for all you collectible needs! We have served Augusta for 7 years and thank everyone for their support!

Open 6 days a week, or shop 24/7 on our ebay store!

Visit our store, shop us online via Ebay or check out our Facebook page! 

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Walk in the door and you are a friend! We offer a family friendly environment and provide the best in customer service! 

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We carry all the best brands, from Lego to Sideshow, Topps, Leaf, Marvel, DC, Games Workshop, and so much more!

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Outsider Comics and Geek Boutique is cozy, welcoming, and inclusive local comic book store located in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle, WA. We are a queer, trans, woman of color owned small business that caters to readers of all ages and experience levels, specializes in indie and local publishers, and highlights local, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ creators. You can find graphic novels, zines, geeky fashion, nerdy jewelry, games, gifts, and much more in our store. Learn more or visit Outsider today!

We have a 100% mask required policy. We ask that everyone over the age of 3 wear a face mask in the store. Free face masks are provided, but we appreciate it if you bring your own.

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Classic Comics

Graphic novels.

Retrograde Comics and Other Artifacts is a professional comic book store unlike any other. Our friendly staff will help you find the perfect reading material for you. We have reading material such as classic comics , DC Comics , Marvel comics , books , and graphic novels . Here in Little Rock, AR Retrograde Comics and Other Artifacts prides itself on providing some of the best comic material and collectibles year-round. We also offer two reading areas, a lounge, and a patio for our guests. Whether you are a collector, looking to treating yourself, or look to buying that special someone a gift that they will love, Retrograde Comics and Other Artifact have the collectibles just for you. We have a variety from pop figures to actual figures and many more.

As a family business, we treat our guests of all ages, new and advanced readers as family. It is our passion to give you the best recommendation that we can in movies , books , collectibles , and much more. You can find a hidden gem in Little Rock, AR. Just come on down and visit Retrograde Comics and Other Artifacts today and see what your next or first reading material will be today!

• 2 Reading Areas, a Lounge & Patio
• Curated Recommendations
• Family-Owned & Operated
• Personalized Service
• Wide Selection of Marvel, DC, & Independent Comics
• Little Rock, AR

How to Open a Comic Book Store

Alice Nuttall

Alice Nuttall (she/her) is a writer, pet-wrangler and D&D nerd. Her reading has got so out of control that she had to take a job at her local library to avoid bankrupting herself on books — unfortunately, this has just resulted in her TBR pile growing until it resembles Everest. Alice's webcomic, writing and everything else can be found at https://linktr.ee/alicenuttallbooks . Her debut novel, The Zombie Project , is coming out in January 2025 with Chicken House .

View All posts by Alice Nuttall

I’ve been making indie comics for many years and reading comics for many more. While the library was the first place that I was able to get my hands on comics, I soon wanted to read more than the small selection I found there, so I started visiting comic book stores. Living in a small town without its own local comic shop, I had to travel to do this — sometimes to Forbidden Planet in London, sometimes to the small independent comic book stores that have existed at various times in Oxford, and once getting the train to Southampton to browse a comic book store and visit a manga exhibition on the same day. I’ve always wondered how to open a comic book store, something we’ll explore today!

How To Open a Comic Book Store: A Starting Point

Comic book stores as we know them today arose in the 1970s following the decline of the newsstand market , and they’ve often had a certain reputation as unfriendly, gate-kept places. The Simpsons’ s Comic Book Guy might be a caricature, but I’ve certainly had the experience of stepping into a comic book store and feeling like the newcomer walking into the saloon in an old Western. Some comic book stores have indeed been unfriendly places for women comic readers and for other marginalised people, such as people of colour, LGBTQ+ people, and disabled people.

But other comic book stores have rejected this trend. Many stores have set themselves up as welcoming places for everyone, with a wide range of comics and a programme that makes them social centres as much as stores. While working on this article, I spoke to Menachem Luchins, founder and owner of Escape Pod Comics in New York , a shop that has been running for 10 years and whose tagline, “comics are for everyone,” emphasises how inclusive the comics world should be.

What Do Comic Book Stores Do?

Obviously, the primary task of comic book stores is to sell comics — or, to look at it from a different angle, to put a wide variety of comics in the hands of people who are interested in reading them. While bookstores are getting better, the majority of mainstream shops still only have a small comics and graphic novels section, if they have one at all — and those comics sections tend to be all lumped together, with Marvel and DC on the same shelf as manga, biographical comics, and all the others. Booksellers in mainstream stores may not have the background knowledge needed to give recommendations to comics readers, particularly when you consider that, unlike prose fiction, some comic series have around 70 years of stories to pick and choose from: you need expert knowledge to be able to narrow it down for a reader who’s just starting out. Comic book stores can divide comics into sections based on genre, style, or storyline, helping readers to find the general area of comics they want. Good comic booksellers can aid readers further by giving recommendations and signposting the best places to start or picking out titles that they know regular customers will enjoy.

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But comic book stores have always been more than places that sell comics. They’ve also been places that celebrate all things nerdy, not only selling merchandise to go along with the books but also running comic-based events. Some comic book shops host tabletop gaming clubs, invite authors and artists for meet-and-greets, or run comic-making workshops for new creators.

Setting Up a Comic Book Store

Running a comic book store is a dream of many comics fans, but how do you get started? Like any business, getting things underway can be a challenge. You need money to be able to start a business, which can mean either using a lump sum of your own — something few people have — or taking out loans. Fortunately, crowdfunding has provided an alternative. Crowdfunding campaigns have become a significant part of the independent comics landscape in recent years and have helped indie creators and publishers take control of their work, expand their projects, and engage with readers in a way that wasn’t previously possible.

As with comics publishing, crowdfunding for a comic book shop can mean that a community feels involved in the creation of the store, seeing it more as a social hub than simply a place to buy goods. Escape Pod Comics ran a Kickstarter as part of its launch process, something that helped the shop develop in ways beyond raising start-up money; Luchins notes that “the [campaign] was good for me to see how people reacted to the very idea, that a comic shop was more than just a  business looking for capital, but a center for exchanging ideas…I think now, 11 years later, a comic shop that hosts loads of community enriching events and the like is taken for granted, but then it was something that people only ‘in the know’ really got about comic shops.”

Running a campaign is one way to find the start-up money for a comic store, which is often the biggest hurdle for aspiring owners to clear. At one panel held at San Diego Comic Con in 2015 , comic store owners suggested that the minimum amount required to open a store is around $50,000 — and that’s a number from eight years ago, before the recent drastic increase in cost of living. This figure covers essentials like rent for a space in an area with enough footfall to guarantee a steady number of customers; fittings for the shop so you can shelve and display comics in the most appealing way possible; salaries for yourself and your staff; and, of course, the stock that you plan to sell. As comics distributor, Chris Powell noted on the SDCC panel, “The cost of opening a store is higher now because customers will expect the store to carry a broader range of stock…The clientele is no longer young men between the ages of 18 and 25.” Bringing in a diverse stock may have a greater up-front cost, but it’ll pay off in the long run when your comic shop appeals to a wider demographic of customers.

Of course, there’s more to setting up and running a shop than the financial side of things. Luchins has recommended that any budding comic book store owners should try to work or volunteer at their existing local store if at all possible:

“There are so so so many small, nitty-gritty, parts of working and running a comic shop (ordering, receiving, billing, hold lists, pricing back issues) that the more years you have under your belt at any level, the better a time you are going to have when it’s your own place. You also get to see practices you DON’T want to do from the perspective of the shop, and hopefully come to understand why they might sell items you wouldn’t want to or don’t understand!”

Immersing yourself in the comics world in any way possible is a great way to build your knowledge before opening a store. Jason Mojica, owner of Hey Kids Comics! in Brooklyn, began selling comics on stalls on the street before he was eventually able to open a bricks-and-mortar store . In my years attending comic conventions, I’ve met many comic book store owners who are exhibiting or taking part in panels. The world of UK comics is a relatively small one, and a huge amount of networking and idea-sharing happens at cons. Engaging with and speaking to comics creators and readers, both long-established and new to the scene, is a great way to gain an understanding and knowledge of what kinds of things people are reading and how they want to engage with comics.

Building this background knowledge of the comics world will give you a strong idea of what sells; while one of the best aspects of running your own business is being able to focus on stocking the comics and merch you love, you’ll be more successful if you bring in a wide range of stock to appeal to as many people as possible. (In short, don’t be Tim Bisley .)

Staffing a comic book store is another challenge and cost — it’s not surprising that, for most comic book stores in their early years, the only members of staff will be the owner/s. Be prepared to do everything from working the till to being your own social media manager, as well as ordering and curating stock. If your start-up fund does include enough to hire an extra member of staff, or you’re able to hire someone later, you may want to hire from the pool of local comics fans: their knowledge of the comics scene will be a great asset when dealing with customers.

Keeping It Going

There are many challenges in running a comic shop, particularly as the social and economic landscape has moved on a huge amount since the dawn of the comic book store in the 1970s. Bricks-and-mortar stores are struggling now that online ordering is so easy; running a physical shop involves costs like rent and utilities, something that online competitors can avoid and, therefore, sell their products at a lower price. Sadly, several of the comic book stores I’ve visited over the years have had to close because running the business became unsustainable.

The comic book stores that are thriving are the ones that have worked to stand out. Luchins told me, “I went out of my way to make a shop that’s a little more unique than most, whether it’s in how we stock the shelves or how we do business.” As I mentioned earlier, comic book stores are uniquely placed to provide things that customers can’t get online: face-to-face meetings with creators, social clubs focused around hobbies like tabletop gaming or drawing meet-ups, or workshops that teach you art skills or zine-making.

Comic book stores can also get involved in the wider comics scene through conventions; the UK comic book shop Travelling Man partners with the long-running comic convention Thought Bubble, including by offering micro-bursaries for marginalised creators . You can expand your customer base and engage more with local and broader communities by getting involved in conventions, running clubs (liaising with local schools’ art departments is also a great way to do this), and ensuring that you have a good roster of events, with something to appeal to everyone. Comics creators, particularly those working in indie comics, are often happy to do talks and signings at comic stores.

Running any business is hard, and that’s particularly true when you’re running a niche business like a comic book store. But for people who love comics, it’s worth it. Luchins says,

“The best things about running a comic shop are, again, unique to what kind of shop you make! I have friends who love being on the sales floor, others who live to schedule events and conventions and still more that want to sort through and catalogue awesome old comics — all are awesome things, depending on what your jam is! For me, the ultimate part is being my own boss and trying to make a space that doesn’t just sell merchandise but enlivens imaginations and empathy in all sorts of readers.”

Unlike the comic book stores of the past, Escape Pod Comics and many other modern comic book stores reject gatekeeping and focus on bringing readers new and old into the world of comics.

Looking for fun comics shops to visit? Try our article on The Most Unique Comic Book Stores Across the USA . If you want comics recommendations, try The Bestselling Comics of All Time .