The best book, hobby & craft shops in Joliet

“From hoodies and pennants to course materials, laptops, and legit program-specific gear (think aviation supplies, drafting tools, even medical and dental gear), Lewis University Bookstore is the easy local move for Bolingbrook folks who want solid school swag, study essentials, or a quick gift that says "Go Flyers"…”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Craving fresh wax plus a legit closet refresh this week, hit up Paul Rose Records & Boutique. They lean hard into City Pop, movie and video game soundtracks, and hip-hop favorites, and their boutique racks everything from plus-size picks to cozy loungewear, so your turntable and fits both win.”

From the Plainfield newsletter, September 22, 2026

“The Wandering Dragon Game & Puzzle Shoppe keeps Plainfield rolling with constant new releases, a treasure trove of pre-owned finds in the Dragon Cache, and a packed calendar. Jump into D&D Encounters, one-shots, or a full campaign, reserve a table for your crew, then sync up on their Discord.”

From the Plainfield newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Part community hub, part treasure hunt, Heirloom Books is a cozy, eclectic used bookstore with two floors of books, periodicals, LPs, DVDs, CDs, artwork, plus signed and antique finds.”

From the Chicago newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Angel's Trumpet Gifts is a family-owned Christian resource shop serving Joliet since 1963, with one of the area’s largest selections of Bibles, devotionals, children’s books, puzzles, church supplies, and Catholic gifts.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing the latest #1 or hunting a long-lost run, Alternate Reality, Inc stacks the shelves with current and vintage comics, plus action figures and posters that hit every fandom. Perfect for a quick escape from chores... and an even quicker excuse to start a new collection.”

From the Oak Lawn newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Plot Twist Books is an independent, women-owned bookstore in Lockport with thoughtfully curated new and gently loved reads for all ages, plus bookish gifts and local artisan finds. Swing by this week for book clubs, pop-ups, and events, or grab audiobooks when your hands are busy but your brain wants a story.”

From the Joliet newsletter, August 21, 2026

“From DC and Marvel staples to indie gems and manga, Amazing Fantasy Comics stocks comics, graphic novels, board games, CCGs, RPGs, miniatures, and their own AF merch.”

From the Joliet newsletter, September 2, 2026

“High Tide Press Publisher is your local go-to this week for person-centered resources that help at work and at home. Think CQL conversation cards, DDNA education and practice standards, and Linda Van Dyke’s handbook on connecting with nonverbal folks, with every purchase supporting Trinity Services’ nonprofit mission.”

From the Joliet newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Bookseller chain with a broad selection of titles for adults & kids, plus magazines & gifts.”

“The Book Cellar is the indie bookstore cafe that fuels your TBR and your caffeine habit, with lively book clubs, frequent author events, and a stellar signed selection including John Green. Drop by this week, grab a seat, discover something unexpected, and pretend you only came for one chapter.”

From the Evanston newsletter, August 18, 2026

“When your semester to-do list gets wild, JJC Bookstore keeps it simple with one stop for course materials, rentals and buyback, plus spirit wear and everyday supplies. Use their textbook look-up and online ordering, or go digital with day-one access for select classes so you’re not stuck waiting.”

From the Joliet newsletter, September 9, 2026

“New issue day hits Wednesday, August 26, and the shelves at Graham Crackers Comics of Plainfield, IL. are stacked with fresh releases, graphic novels, exclusive variants, and deep-cut back issues from Golden and Silver Age to graded gems. Set up a subscription, peek at preorders, maybe catch an event.”

From the Plainfield newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Michael Stone Books is your local pipeline for speculative and horror fiction from a Chicagoland author, with signed paperbacks like Lovely Flesh, bite-size flash stories on the blog, and a Classic Horror Collection on the way. Queue up something unsettling for this week’s reading and thank us later.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, August 19, 2026

“From chamber scores and opera vocal selections to method books, manuscript paper, tuners, and gems like the Music by Black Composers series, Performers Music keeps Chicago players stocked with the good stuff.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Friendly candle store featuring housemade creations in creative scents alongside gift items.”

“Brandolino's Encore Music Center does the local trifecta, selling and renting instruments, running reliable repairs for guitars and band gear, and teaching lessons for all ages. Family-run since 1971 in Shorewood, they also host jam and recording sessions, so you can learn, fix, then actually make some noise.”

From the Oswego newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Whether you're restocking charcoal, watercolor, or geeking out on screen printing, Jenny G’s Art Supply champions sustainable, non-toxic picks and even has a Terracycle drop for spent supplies.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Left Round Records keeps the racks fresh with new and used vinyl, CDs, tapes, and even vintage video games, spanning rock, soul, hip hop, jazz and more. Bring a want list or a stack to trade, then let the staff steer you toward your next obsession.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Well-stocked store specializing in new, used & vintage guitars, plus amps & accessories.”

“Whether you're chasing the perfect fountain pen nib, brushes and watercolor that actually behave, or Japanese papers that make your notes feel special, Martha Mae Outpost curates the good stuff. Thoughtful tools, sketchbooks, brass desk gems, and occasional workshops to nudge your creative routine back to life.”

From the Romeoville newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Laid-back and very Chicago, Tommy's Guitars & Trading Post stacks new, used, and vintage guitars, amps, and pedals, plus legit repair work when your setup acts up. Lefty players will feel seen, and the authorized lineup from Ibanez, Orange, Yamaha, and Danelectro keeps things dialed.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Folklore Crafts keeps Chicago winter interesting with cozy ponchos featuring bold, pop culture patterns and anime nods like an Akatsuki design. If your cold‑weather rotation needs something warm, comfy, and a little geeky, their catalog delivers pieces you can wear to brunch, the office, or a quick grocery dash.”

From the Chicago newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Whether you’re clearing out that closet of half-used yarn or hunting for inspiration that doesn’t wreck the budget, The WasteShed collects reusable art and school supplies and makes them available to teachers, artists, and everyday makers.”

From the Berwyn newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Rare Birds Music is a curated playground for Chicago players hunting vintage and pre-owned gems, from black panel Fender amps and Moog synths to vibe-heavy pedals. If your current rig feels meh, trade something in and end up with gear that actually sparks practice this week.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Whether your Strat buzzes, your Taylor needs TLC, or your frets feel like speed bumps, The Guitar Workshop is where luthier Mario Percoco delivers pro setups, precision refrets and repairs, custom builds, and curated vintage gear trusted by working players across Chicagoland.”

From the Plainfield newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Clean store stocking toys, snacks, decor and beauty supplies.”

“Chain music retailer with a wide selection of guitars and other instruments plus recording gear.”

“Disc Replay keeps shelves fresh with constantly changing pre-owned vinyl, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, video games, consoles, and collectible finds, so every visit feels like a new dig. They also buy your gently used media for cash or store credit, which basically funds your next great score.”

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Audiophil's Records keeps Joliet spinning with deep record bins, a Local Rack spotlighting hometown artists, and a friendly buy-sell-trade counter. They also plug into scene-y happenings like Panic at the Plaza and the Will County Record Crawl, plus plenty of CDs, cassettes, and gear.”

From the Joliet newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“If your living room jam needs a little oomph or you've been eyeing that first guitar, Ceasar's Music of Illinois keeps a solid spread of instruments and a friendly crew ready to steer you right. Pop in this week and walk out sounding a little more like the musician you want to be.”

From the Cicero newsletter, August 17, 2026

“From banjos and mandolins to acoustic and electric guitars, sheet music, harmonicas, and even rentals, Old Town School Music Store is Chicago's acoustic source. Non-profit since 1957, every purchase supports the Old Town School of Folk Music, so your next instrument also funds more music around here.”

From the Arlington Heights newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Music store, specializing in guitars and basses.”

“Second Wind Music treats your horn like a long-term investment, specializing in meticulous woodwind and brass repairs, from quick adjustments to full vintage restorations. Ask about custom touches like palm key risers or adjustable thumb rests, and peek at their refurbished instruments if you’re upgrading...”

From the Joliet newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Atlas Stationers is a veteran spot for fine writing, inks, and actually-good planners, with brands like Hobonichi and Kaweco plus Atlas exclusives and special editions. Stock up on notebooks, refills, and giftable gear, then peek at their events calendar for workshops and community hangs.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Vintage, new & used guitars plus other instruments & gear in a polished space with an acoustic room.”