Diamond Bookshelf 32 The LGBTQ+ Issue | Page 38

HOW TO ORDER COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS

YOU HAVE MANY OPTIONS – CHOOSE THE ONE THAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU !
1 . BUY FROM YOUR LOCAL COMIC BOOK SHOP
For a variety of reasons , your local comic book shop could be the best possible resource for your purchase of graphic novels . In fact , many local comic shops service both schools and libraries already with the latest comics and graphic novels .
2 . BUY FROM YOUR USUALWHOLESALER OR BOOK JOBBER
Baker & Taylor , Booksource , Brodart , Follett , Ingram , and other wholesalers all carry a full line of graphic novels . Most schools and libraries already do business with one or more of these companies , and it ’ s easy to add in your order through these procurement channels .
3 . BUY DIRECT FROM DIAMOND
If there are no comic book stores in your area and your usual wholesaler doesn ’ t have deep stock on a variety of titles , Diamond does sell directly to educators and librarians . For more information , call Allan Greenberg at 443-318-8001 ext . 8564 or email library @ diamondcomics . com or schools @ diamondcomics . com
A GREAT RESOURCE : YOUR LOCAL COMIC BOOK SHOP
Quality comic book shops are a valuable resource for libraries and schools seeking graphic novels and graphic novel information . In the past , such partnerships have proven successful for all involved , with increased sales and circulation , as well as the satisfaction that comes with community involvement . As comic book and graphic novel specialists , comic shop retailers have up-to-date knowledge on the most recent and upcoming hits , and a great familiarity with what their customers are reading and enjoying . Many are more than willing to work together on cross-promotional events , reaching out to and expanding the audience of graphic novel fans . So , how do you go about finding and dealing with your local comic shop ? Well , it ’ s easier than you think . By following these easy steps , you ’ ll be coordinating with your local comic shop in no time !
Research and Choose a Store . Once you ’ ve located a store , the next thing to do is find out more about it . If you used the Comic Shop Locator , many of the stores have posted brief profiles . The best way to find out more information about a store is to visit it in person . That way , you ’ ll have the opportunity to browse through the store ’ s collection and get personal advice from the knowledgeable experts on hand . All stores will have their own unique approach – find one that you feel comfortable with .
Introduce Yourself . Going into any new environment can be intimidating , especially when you have preconceived notions . But there ’ s nothing to fear from comic shop retailers . Many of them are happy to welcome librarians and teachers into their stores because they understand the mutual benefit working together can achieve . Let them know you ’ re interested in using graphic novels , and they will be more than happy to help !
Find a Store . We ’ ve already done the work for you ! To find your closest comic shop , all you have to do is use the Comic Shop Locator Service . Just log on to http :// www . comicshoplocator . com and enter your zip code . It ’ s as simple as that ! Located on the store listings is the School and Library Partners icon above . Stores with this designation have told us they are willing to partner with schools and libraries to aid with selection , programming , purchasing , and more .
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