JHU Comic Books has moved to 481 3rd Avenue, #5503, New York, NY 10016
Comic books and graphic novels have stepped up their game over the past few decades, and are now recognized as a legitimate art form, both by the publishing world and by collectors. I have been to a number of great comic book shops while walking the side streets, but none of them can compare with the vast and well-organized selection that JHU carries. The shop is set up in alphabetical order, from Aqua Man to Zombie, in an effort to help enthusiasts and newcomers alike navigate the collection. And of course, the knowledgeable and friendly staff is always on hand to answer questions. “Golden Age Larry,” as he is affectionately known, is an icon in the world of comics and a real delight. His passion becomes apparent as soon as you begin a conversation.
I spent a pleasant time with Larry, who told me about the history of the business and how he became involved. What started as a small interest thirty years ago became the bane of his existence once he discovered JHU on Chamber Street in the 1990s. Larry worked on Wall Street at the time, and hung out at JHU during his lunch hour, chatting with the owners and customers. He became what people referred to as a “fountain of knowledge,” a walking encyclopedia of comic books. Within a few years, Larry made the decision to leave his job downtown and begin a new career in the world of comics uptown. Now, happily situated between Park and Madison, JHU enjoys a steady stream of collectors and first-timers who browse the golden oldies and the newest comic books that line JHU’s organized shelves.