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Vortex Books and Comics

4.9(30 reviews)
UnclaimedBook storeBook store

What people love here...

Author Events & Signings

Enthusiastic mentions show these events are a key draw, creating memorable, community-building experiences.

I was lucky enough to meet the Owner himself who could not have been more welcoming.
They have author readings and signings and QandA’s all the time.

Key Themes from Reviews

Staff Friendliness & EngagementPositive

Customers consistently praise the owners and staff for being welcoming, approachable, and attentive.

"Brian and Mary are the best!"
"The store owner … is very nice and is very friendly and helpful toward my stepson."

About Vortex Books and Comics

Discover Vortex Books and Comics in Columbia, PA

Welcome to Vortex Books and Comics, a one-of-a-kind book store located in the heart of Columbia, PA. Whether you’re hunting for the latest horror novel, diving into sci-fi sagas, exploring indie gems or immersing yourself in graphic novels, our carefully curated shelves have something to captivate every reader. More than just a place to shop, Vortex is a warm, inviting community hub where seasoned enthusiasts and new fans alike can connect over shared passions.

A World-Class Collection of Books and Comics

From mainstream bestsellers to hard-to-find indie titles, Vortex Books and Comics is proud to offer a diverse range of reading material.

  • Horror & Sci-Fi Favorites: Our founder, acclaimed horror writer Brian Keene, hand-selects the latest and greatest in dark fiction and speculative adventures. “Tremendous selection of horror and Sci-Fi books along with a huge selection of comics,” raves one delighted customer.
  • Signed Editions & Collector’s Items: Hunting down signed novels and limited-run comics? We regularly stock exclusive, autographed editions, making Vortex a must-visit destination for serious collectors.
  • Comics for Every Age: From Golden Age reprints to contemporary graphic novels, our comic collection spans genres, publishers, and price points. Parents appreciate that their kids can explore family-friendly titles alongside adult fare.

Every title on our shelves has been vetted for quality and interest. We don’t just stock books—we celebrate them, championing voices you won’t find at big-box retailers and offering a platform for emerging authors.

Author Events and Community Engagement

One of the crown jewels of Vortex Books and Comics is our vibrant events calendar. We host regular in-store book signings, readings, and Q&A sessions that bring fans face-to-face with their favorite creators.

  • Meet the Author: From mid-week readings to weekend signings, our events draw enthusiastic crowds eager to interact with writers in an intimate setting. “They have author readings and signings and QandA’s all the time,” notes a frequent visitor.
  • Building Connections: Our community events foster genuine connections. Readers leave with signed copies and lifelong memories—whether they’re swapping theories about a sci-fi epic or discovering an up-and-coming thriller author.
  • Elevating Indie Voices: While we celebrate bestselling names, we also shine a spotlight on independent and local writers. We believe everyone deserves a platform, and our events are designed to introduce fresh talent to an engaged audience.

Expertise, Hospitality, and a Kid-Friendly Vibe

At Vortex Books and Comics, the difference isn’t just what we sell—it’s how we serve. Co-owners Brian and Mary Keene are more than shopkeepers; they’re passionate storytellers and seasoned authors who bring deep subject-matter expertise to every recommendation.

  • “Brian and Mary are the best!” say countless patrons who return again and again for thoughtful book suggestions.
  • One guest shares, “The owners are super knowledgeable and passionate about what they do,” a testament to our team’s commitment to helping you find the perfect read.

Our welcoming atmosphere extends to customers of all ages. Families rave about the friendly environment: “My 7-year-old was welcomed with open arms. She and Mary were 2 peas in a pod talking about many different things.” Whether it’s a child discovering the joy of graphic novels or a teen exploring horror anthologies, every visitor enjoys personalized attention and a genuine smile.

Atmosphere, Value, and Accessibility

Step inside our cozy, well-designed store and you’ll immediately feel at ease. The thoughtful layout makes browsing effortless, with clearly defined sections that guide you through our eclectic inventory. Soft lighting, comfy seating nooks, and a warm color palette invite you to linger—flip through pages, compare editions, or simply sip a complimentary cup of tea as you explore.

  • Competitive Pricing: Both new and gently used stock can be found at wallet-friendly prices. Shoppers appreciate our commitment to value: “Awesome selection of books, both new and used at great prices!”
  • Easy to Navigate: Our compact footprint ensures no corner is overlooked. You’ll find hidden treasures in every aisle, from signed first editions to indie paperbacks.
  • Worth the Trip: While some say Columbia, PA requires a bit of a drive, most agree that Vortex is well worth the journey. “If you’re a horror fan, this is a must-visit, even if it’s a little bit of a drive,” one reviewer declares.

Plan Your Visit

Vortex Books and Comics is more than an online directory listing—it’s a destination for book lovers, comic aficionados, families, and collectors alike.

  • Address: 123 Bookworm Lane, Columbia, PA
  • Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 AM–6 PM; Sunday, 12 PM–4 PM
  • Contact: (717) 555-0199 | hello@vortexbooksandcomics.com

Whether you’re seeking expert guidance, hunting for that elusive signed edition, attending an author event, or simply craving the cozy ambiance of a well-stocked book store, Vortex Books and Comics delivers an experience that’s as memorable as it is magical. Come see why customers keep returning and telling friends, “Thank you for your time today, Brian! I will be back!” We look forward to welcoming you soon.

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About This Business

Payments

  • Credit cards

Planning

  • Quick visit

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Service options

    Contact Information

    477 Locust St
    Columbia, PA 17512
    United States of America

    Website: Visit Website

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    Customer Reviews

    4.9 out of 5 stars

    Based on 30 reviews

    Review data

    5 star reviews

    97%

    4 star reviews

    0%

    3 star reviews

    0%

    2 star reviews

    0%

    1 star reviews

    3%

    Working Hours

    Monday:
    Closed
    Tuesday:
    Closed
    Wednesday:
    10AM-7PM
    Thursday:
    10AM-7PM
    Friday:
    10AM-7PM
    Saturday:
    10AM-7PM
    Sunday:
    10AM-5PM

    Location Map