Business name: Cave Comics

Address: 57 Church Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470

Owner: Matthew Bania

Background: I started reading comics when I was about 6, and I started coming here in the late 1990s. My brother was here at one point when he heard the owner talking about needing some help for the holidays and I got hired. At first, there was a lot to learn and do — and I came to realize pretty quickly that this was one of the coolest jobs, doing something I actually loved.

So when the owner was getting ready to retire, he started teaching me all the business end of things — and the plan was he’d find a new owner and I would stay on. Then, on a lark, I asked what he wanted to buy the place and I thought, “I can do that.” So after 16 years, three as a full-timer, I bought the place.

Business focus: I didn’t want to rock the boat with too many new things because everything was going well. We have awesome clients — some who’ve been here since it opened, so making changes could affect how our regular customers look at the place. Eventually, I’d like to increase our online retail presence, but that could mean hiring an extra dedicated person. I’m also planning on doing some work with our website.

I get gratification from seeing the light in a kid’s eyes when they’re discovering comics for the first time. But then, being able to discuss the deeper and more historical nuances of comics with longtime readers. It’s important to maintain that connection with every customer because I share that joy of discovery, as well as the deeper dive conversation.

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 am to 7 pm; Sunday, noon to 5 pm

Website: cavecomics.com

E-Mail: Click on the website ‘Contact’ tab

Social Media: facebook.com/pages/category/Comic-Bookstore/Cave-Comics-270620477026/

Phone: 203-426-4346