LCS: Rooftop Shouting Required

I, am excited. Today I was pointed to an article on Joe Keatinge’s website, which was all about the local comic shop. I, for one, am a fan of the local comic shop (and not just because I work for one).

I find that in a dying industry, the personal touch is a necessity. Not only is it helpful to have someone to go to regarding the latest comic titles, but also, the comic shop can point you towards other things that you might like. I know that I have picked up books that I never otherwise would have without the input of Paul, Erik, or Amy at House of Secrets in Burbank, California.  They also can order me things that I’m missing, or that they don’t stock at the store. Having the personal touch is something so valuable to comics as a whole, but especially indie books.

Comic stores need to hear about small books or independent titles that you like, but a lot of comic shops also appreciate the random titles more than you’d think. Personally, I know that indie comics are my breath of fresh air. I love “Uncanny X-Force”, but if I have to discuss the brilliance of Remender one more time, I might break my teeth from jaw stress.

We love independent comics for the journey and the imagination behind them. They aren’t like every tights and capes book out there. They are very personal. Someone made that. A lot of times on their own, without the aide of the industry. If you like these books, speak up. Tell the local comic stores to stock them. They will, because they like these books, too. Plus, if they know they’ll sell, all the better.

It is our job to yell from the rooftops what it is we want to read. I want people to make the comics that mean something to them. I love it when someone puts together a piece of art they did themselves. In this industry, the only thing we can do is support one another and let it be known that comics, especially creator owned, will not go down without a fight!