World’s End Comics Store is Heading Uptown

By Miranda Reale

KINGSTON – When World’s End Comics opened up its doors in Midtown Kingson two and a half years ago, the Covid-19 pandemic was lurking just around the corner. Considering the challenges an independent comic book shop already faces within the digital landscape of the 21st century, and additionally having to navigate the threats of a global pandemic, the decision to open caused concern for store owners. Yet, in just a few years, Midtown Kingston has undergone vast changes that have aided in the success of the store. With the ease of a freshly paved Broadway Avenue, the access of parking, and a newly instated roundabout connecting Uptown and Midtown Kingston – Broadway has become less problematic. Though opening initially looked precarious, the shop received energetic word-of-mouth recommendation and praise. Now, fully immersed in the Midtown community, co-owner Cristopher Livecchi, says he is a little sad to leave their current spot at 588 Broadway, but a move Uptown to Wall Street will bring some new and exciting changes to the business.

Though the shop’s reputation has grown in Midtown, “We needed to be doing more business,” he continues. “When we reached the natural end of our lease at our current space, we decided it was time to look for something bigger. We realized we had maximized what we could do.”

Free Comic Book Day is coming up on May 7th and conveniently scheduled for the grand reopening of the new space at 319/321 Wall St. Last Saturday was the final day that the Midtown location would open its doors for business. Attractively situated next to Kingston Candy Bar, the new Uptown site hopes to accumulate more foot-traffic. “The Stockade District is more of a destination,” Livecchi said.

With the additional amount of square-footage gained in its new location, World’s End Comics intends to bring the community ties gained over the years in Midtown, to the Stockade District. In hopes to expand not only their physical space, World’s End will act more like a community space where gatherings, gaming, and entertainment can take place simultaneously. With the space and flexibility to offer author signings, book events, workshops, panel-discussions, and other opportunities to inspire younger generations. “We want to provide space to fire people’s imaginations,” Livecchi says.

For updates on what’s planned for the opening event and beyond, visit www.worldsendkingston.com