The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Comic book store has something for everyone
Comic bookstore has something for everyone
The store is filled with the latest issues for whatever comic book interest someone might have.
For those looking for a local comic bookstore, look no further than Keith’s Comics in Elyria.
The store, located at 394 Broad St., is filled with the latest issues for whatever comic interest someone might have.
“We resupply every Wednesday with the latest issues,” said Bryan Branch, chairman of the board for Keith’s Comics. “We carry all the top comic book publishers and the iconic superheroes and comic series that people know and love.”
Branch said the store has moved around a few times but has always stayed in the same area.
“We’ve been at 316 Broad, 523 Broad, 387 Broad, 121 East Ave., and now at 394 Broad,” he recalled. “The store has always been in this area despite the moves and changes. People have asked about that, so I just wanted to clarify.”
Branch said Keith’s is always thinking about what the customer wants.
“We carry Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, we’ve got some Rick and Morty, and pretty much whatever else you might want,” he said. “These comics cover anything from movies, television, and the Ninja Turtles, which some people don’t know started as a comic. It’s not just the top flight issues like the X-Men, I also have the indy darlings. We cover the needs of all ages and interests. If there is something that isn’t here, I will order it and have it brought in.” Branch said he gets a preview of all the new comics
every month.
“I’m always looking to see what’s coming next,” he said. “Whether it is the latest installment of a longrunning series or something that is new, I make sure to order and reserve enough copies for the store.”
Branch said it is important to be in constant conversation with customers.
“I talk with people all the time to try and figure out what they are looking for,” he said. “I try to keep in touch via phone, email, and on social media.”
Branch said the business is doing very well.
“We have been here for 20 years now supplying the comic needs of the area,” he said. “It has been sad to see some of the business close down in this area over the years. Fortunately, we are starting to get a resurgence in downtown Elyria and I’m glad to be a part of it.”
Branch said the difficulties with a comic book shop is building a customer base.
“I know that is the cliche answer, but it is important to get the word out and get regulars to come in at a good rate,” he said. “The other problem is supplying the comics. I have to order ahead to make sure I get the popular issues that people are going to want. Sometimes I will order what I feel is enough and then the hype builds around a comic. It can be tough to keep up, but that’s part of the business.”
Branch said Free Comic Book Day is coming May 5 to the store.
“It’s a national day that is a hype train centered around a big comic book-inspired film,” he said. “There will be a stand set up outside and I will be passing out the free books that the companies make for the occasion. It is always a lot of fun and gets people coming down to the store.”
Branch said Elyria has been very supportive of the business.
“The people have been incredible,” he said. “It is so great to see the regulars come in to get the latest issues. I have been contacted to supply comic books for the superhero-themed Cleveland Pops Orchestra event they had in Elyria. I have also been contacted by Atlas Cinema to supply comic books for some of their superhero events.”
Branch said the increase in digital reading hasn’t affected the business.
“I see that conversation going around, but the business is fine,” he said. “I get the convenience of digital, but I think there is something to the physical copy. The comic book patrons value the physical copy and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.”