The best book, hobby & craft shops in Summit County

“Mythical Bookworm piles up gently used reads across sci-fi, manga, cookbooks, and kid lit, plus curveballs like Warhammer minis, paints, and game-night vibes. Swing by this week to browse, trade recommendations, maybe learn Magic: The Gathering, and leave with a story you didn’t know you needed.”

From the Akron newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Part small, used indie shop and part community living room in downtown Cuyahoga Falls, Shelf Life curates only clean, well-kept reads, offers low-cost and no-cost options, and champions anti-censorship, childhood literacy and analog reconnection. org support them.”

From the Cuyahoga Falls newsletter, September 24, 2026

“When you want something beyond the usual capes, JC Comics and Anime keeps shelves stacked with creator-owned gems and the big names, plus plenty of collectibles to tempt your inner kid. It’s the kind of local shop where browsing turns into discovering your new favorite series.”

From the Cuyahoga Falls newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a first guitar, a reliable stage piano, drum gear, or that odd cable that vanished again, A Max Music Ltd pairs old-fashioned service with a deep selection across guitars, pianos, drums, sound and lighting, and school band and orchestra. Need something weird? They’ll track it down.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 24, 2026

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

“For over 60 years, Lay's Guitar Shop has handled everything from neck resets and refrets to world-class restorations and custom builds, with Fender, Gibson, and Martin recommending their work. Local bonus, Jimmy Page’s Les Paul #1 had its neck shaved here... so your Tele will be just fine.”

From the Akron newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Street Craftery is Akron’s go-to for custom candle pouring, guided painting, and even stitching classes when your hands need something fun to do. Book a group hang, make it a date, or swing by for hand-poured soy candles that actually smell like their names... cozy, bright, and very giftable.”

From the Cuyahoga Falls newsletter, October 11, 2026

“From new and used guitars to amps, drums, effects and audio gear, Staff Music Akron has the good stuff plus solid repairs from a father and son team doing this since 1964. If your rig needs love this week, pop in and come out riff ready.”

From the Akron newsletter, October 1, 2026

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

“The Guitar Department is that cozy spot for fair-priced new and used guitars, amps, pedals, and surprise finds, plus buy-sell-trade help and private lessons, and they’re first on the delivery list from Akron neighbors EarthQuaker Devices and SIT Strings.”

From the Akron newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Huge selection of new and used gear, including DJ equipment, plus guitars from various brands, as well as a repair shop.”