Comic art is at the heart of many classic stories. Whether it’s DC, Marvel or independent graphic novels, comics are an important part of art and literature. Thanks to the store Books with Pictures, comics and graphic novels are far more accessible in Eugene. Additionally, the store’s events create community and career building for aspiring writers and artists.

The store itself, based at 5th Street Public Market in the downtown area, has a large variety of choices under the graphic novel and comics umbrella. The store sells role playing games, zines and everything from single issue comic books to graphic novels. Books with Pictures is also known for its regular, community based events like creator meetups, book signings and crafting events.

Andréa Gilroy, the store’s owner, got into the comic and graphic novel industry through their field of study at the University of Oregon. They taught at UO and got their Ph.D. in comparative literature. They got the idea of opening a Eugene location for Books with Pictures from the owner of the original location in Portland, who offered the idea of a new store in Eugene to Gilroy. Gilroy opened the spot in Eugene only months before the COVID-19 pandemic. They fought through quarantine to make it the flourishing store it is today.

One of Gilroy’s favorite events is their crafting event. They have a collection of craft supplies, including old recycled comics they use to create new art, instead of letting them go to waste.

“When comics come to us damaged, they usually don’t want us to return the books,” Gilroy said. “They say to destroy it, don’t sell them and they will send you a replacement. I’m not going to sell a comic with a ripped cover to somebody. Everything else in it is fine, so we use those for crafts.”

Their book signings include a range of local and infamous writers and artists that come to the store. These events create an opportunity for local creators and fans to get to know one another and build community. They also hold opportunities for larger celebrities to get to know attendees.

Patton Oswalt, an actor, comedian and comic creator, attended one of these events in 2025. He signed his work for fans before performing his sold-out comedy show at Olsen Run Comedy Club and Lounge.

Books with Pictures works to help bring together the community in the city of Eugene, especially for students or beginner creators who are looking to get a foot in the door.

“We know that there’s an artist community in Eugene,” Gilroy said. “It can be difficult to connect with people, especially on campus, and we understand you’re in school. You’re not necessarily coming out. But there are a lot of folks like you out there, and there are resources and connections that could be helpful at the very least. But it’s also just nice to have friends, and to have other people who do the things you do.”

Rhae Olson, a bookseller and events manager at the store agrees that community building is at the forefront of all the events they do. They host many free, all-ages events for that same reason of accessibility.

“We have a motto that, ‘comics are for everyone,’” Olson said. “That is at the heart of everything we do, and a big part of that is making sure that our store and events are as accessible as we can make them.”

Whether people in Eugene simply like keeping up to date with some of the new and popular comics, or are looking for a way into the field, Books with Pictures Eugene is here for them, with a range of stories, art styles and creators.