Another way is to ask around. Talk to your friends, colleagues, or fellow comic book enthusiasts. They might know of some hidden gems in the area.
Check local business directories or community forums. Sometimes people post recommendations for comic book shops there. You could also look for reviews on sites like Yelp to find the best ones nearby.
In some cases, you can. But it often depends on the store's policies and the owner's attitude. Some might be open to negotiation, especially if you're a regular customer or buying in bulk.
You can try using online search engines or mapping apps. Just type in 'comic book store near me' and you'll likely get some results.
It's tough to give an exact number. Different places have different amounts. Urban centers tend to have more, but it really varies by location and the popularity of comics in that particular area.
It's hard to give an exact number as it varies by location. But you can probably find a few in big cities.
It depends. Variant covers could potentially hurt local comic shops if they cause a diversion in the supply chain or if customers are more inclined to buy from elsewhere to get specific variants. But it's not always a straightforward negative impact.
Comic book shops usually stock a wide range of comics and related merchandise. They buy from distributors and sell to customers. Staff are often knowledgeable about different series and can offer recommendations.
Comic book shops make money mainly by selling comic books, related collectibles, and merchandise. They also earn through hosting events and signings with comic creators.
Another way is to search on social media platforms. Use relevant hashtags like #localcomicartists or the name of your local area along with #comicartists. You might come across profiles of local talent this way. Also, ask for recommendations from fellow art enthusiasts or comic lovers in your area.
I'm not exactly sure. But you could try looking up industry reports or old directories to get a better idea. It likely varied by location and the popularity of comics at the time.
It depends. Some might think they are better because they offer exclusive merchandise or special promotions. But for others, it might not make much of a difference.