The best book, hobby & craft shops in Will County

“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

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

“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 Joliet newsletter, October 1, 2026

“Need a midweek reset? Watershed Cafe and Books brews organic, flavor-forward coffee, stocks faith-filled reads that actually encourage, and curates artisan gifts from local makers. Pop in to sip, browse, and slow down...”

From the Tinley Park newsletter, September 24, 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, September 25, 2026

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

“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, October 7, 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, September 27, 2026

“Two Hearts Catholic Gifts & Books is your locally owned go-to for Bibles, missals, rosaries, beautiful crucifixes and statues, plus vintage-style Retro Holy Cards that actually feel keepsake-worthy.”

From the Tinley Park newsletter, October 4, 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

“If your shelves are begging for a story, Sincerely, Salli's is, quite literally, in the business of selling memories. Wander the aisles for one-of-a-kind vintage and nostalgic finds that make home feel more you... the perfect low-stress treasure hunt to squeeze into this week.”

From the Kankakee newsletter, August 13, 2026

“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

“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

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

“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).”

“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.”

From the Bolingbrook newsletter, September 25, 2026

“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, October 15, 2026

“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