Odd Places to get Comics

If you have kept up with my writing for a while, you may have noticed that many of my recent writings have surrounded general information about comic shops. More specifically, I refer to the one in the town in which I live, called Fanatix. I mainly do this out of support for them, since they are my first actual comic shop, and I want them to receive good business. However, they and other comic shops are not the only sources through which people can purchase or obtain comics physically from retailers. There are several other more un-conventional methods of procuring them that some people would not be aware of. I am referring to different types of stores and public sources that may just have some decent reads.

A more active and fun preference for myself would have to be attending small comic conventions where multiple shops show up to. Shop will set up booths ,ranging in sizes , to move out old backlogged inventory at very low prices. Single issues that were once four or five dollars individually become one dollar each, with possible bundle sales. It is a nice way for shop to make a quick few bucks as well as move out old product. This makes a nice way to still support a shop, but cheaply.

Another option would be to buy trades from a bookstore, mainly large franchises like Barnes & Nobles. You have to look for it, but they usually keep a section for graphic novels in more "off to the side" areas of the store. Customers can keep up with comic story lines easier by mainly reading  trades while discovering re-releases of old stories in new trade forms. Also, it may not be as closely knit like a shop, but they usually have very relaxing atmospheres. They are a little more expensive, but more convenient as far as accessibility and possible discounts.

Finally, the most simple way of getting comics, borrowing from a friend or collector. You can just ask someone you know or have met whether you can borrow something from their collection for a little while. Naturally, you must take extra care of someone property, but as long as that is done they will continue to lend to you. This builds on a good friendship you already have, along with getting a few good reads out of the deal. This, along with the other options, make for great alternatives to full on comic shops if they are not available.

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