The best book, hobby & craft shops in Albany

“Paper Moon is Troy’s indie hub for rare books, underground zines, and the kind of magazines you won’t find anywhere else, curated by musician-turned-bookseller Joshua Gruft and soundtracked by DJ Mercy.”

From the Troy newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Chasing this week’s new issues, digging for back issues, or eyeing a statue for the shelf, Cromulent Comics has you covered. Set up a subscription so your pulls never slip, check out their Tiny Onion picks from James Tynion IV, then hop on their Discord to nerd out with locals.”

From the Troy newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Aquilonia Comics and Cards has been fueling Troy readers since 1985 with a wall of comics and a serious lineup of trading cards. Swing by for Magic: The Gathering sessions, chat recommendations with folks who actually read this stuff, and maybe discover a new pull-list obsession.”

From the Troy newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Aftersun is a used bookstore and reading room built for unhurried browsing, cozy reads, and the quiet joy of discovering something you didn’t know you needed. They also buy books, so you can finally trade that overflowing shelf for fresh finds and a calmer brain.”

From the Hudson Valley newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Whether you need textbooks without a headache, school supplies that survive all-nighters, or RPI gear that actually fits, RPI Bookstore has you covered. You can shop by course or RIN, grab tech and gifts too, and every purchase sends money right back into the campus community.”

From the Troy newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Warm store boasting a wide array of titles and gifts, plus a kids' reading area.”

“Chasing that Yamaha touch, curious about Roland tech, or finally ready for a living room showstopper?”

From the Albany newsletter, August 6, 2026

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

“Chain music shop carrying guitars, amps, drums, and keyboards, plus repair services and lessons.”

“Up-Stitch is a nonprofit creative reuse fabric and yarn shop that turns donated textiles into affordable finds, keeping good material out of local landfills. Score unique yardage or drop off your extras, then plug into their workshops and outreach that support Capital District makers, schools, and good-cause stitchers.”

From the Albany newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Entertainment retail chain selling new & pre-owned music, movies & video games, plus T-shirts.”

“Arlene's Artist Materials is the Capital Region’s largest independently family owned art supply spot, with the kind of friendly, nerdy staff who can actually explain the difference between paints, markers, and brushes you’ll love.”

From the Albany newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Three floors of old and new vinyl, CDs, and tapes spanning rock, blues, punk, country, R&B, gospel and more make Last Vestige Music Shop a reliable place to lose an afternoon, swap or sell a stack, and leave with rare finds plus sleeves, cartridges, cleaners, even a used turntable.”

From the Albany newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Retail chain offering musical instruments, audio gear & accessories, plus rental & repair services.”

“Whether your frets are scratchy, your intonation’s drifting, or your pickups need new life, Kokotele Guitar Works handles meticulous fret work, pro setups, repairs and mods on acoustics, electrics, and basses, bone nuts and saddles, plus electronics like custom wiring and pickup installs.”

From the Albany newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Whether school band prep or your living room jams need a glow-up, John Keal Music Company, Inc. delivers shop-by-school accessories, lesson books, reeds, and online rentals, plus step-up and pre-owned instruments, guitars, keys, and ukes. Peek their community calendar and instructor directory, then go make some noise.”

From the Albany newsletter, August 14, 2026

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

“Whether you’re chasing your first chord or polishing a solo, Hilton Music Center Inc. has you covered with private in store or virtual lessons, a serious selection of guitars, keyboards, drums and sheet music, legit repairs, plus those famous lifetime guitar service plans.”

From the Albany newsletter, August 17, 2026