The best book, hobby & craft shops in Polk County

Willamette Valley Music Company keeps Salem players covered with instrument rentals, a repair shop, and private lessons, plus buying guides and a violin sizing cheat sheet. Browse Bach trumpets, Kala ukuleles, and Yamaha THR amps, then actually practice... the student accessory portal keeps you stocked.

From the Salem newsletter, November 12, 2026

Founded by music educators in Salem, Peripole Music is the local go-to for real-deal classroom gear, from Peripole Halo recorders and Bergerault Orff setups to ukes, drums, and smart teaching tools. Great for lesson plans, music therapy, and anyone whose living room doubles as a rehearsal space.

From the Salem newsletter, October 21, 2026

Wild Knits is Salem’s cozy spot for yarn in every weight from lace to super bulky, plus needles, notions, and finishing tools. Come for classes and events, browse knit and crochet kits, and yes, there’s tea and teaware while you debate which Cascade skeins need to come home.

From the Marion County newsletter, November 12, 2026

Whether you’re picking out a piano, tracking down accessories, or looking for lesson books, Music, Music! is a friendly Salem shop focused on helping local musicians find the right gear. A good place to browse when your musical ambitions need a little encouragement, or at least a sturdy keyboard stand.

From the Keizer newsletter, November 4, 2026

Harvest Music is a friendly local spot for vinyl, CDs, tapes, and posters, with a wide-ranging mix from rock and jazz to hip-hop, country, and beyond. Whether you’re hunting a longtime favorite or ready to let a surprise record pick your next listening mood, it’s a Salem shop worth browsing.

From the Salem newsletter, November 8, 2026

RiverCity Rock Star Academy is the rare combo of legit gear shop and community hub, with guitars, basses, amps, ukuleles, drums, and all the fiddly bits, plus private lessons and band programs for every age, repairs, and rentals. Swing by this week, get inspired, maybe even join a fall class.

From the Salem newsletter, October 7, 2026

Drum Bug Music - Records + Drums mashes two Salem obsessions, flipping through new and used vinyl across all eras and genres while geeking out on vintage drum sets, cymbals, hardware and accessories. New arrivals pop in daily, and they'll help you track down that dream kit or the LP you can't stop chasing.

From the Salem newsletter, November 1, 2026

Guitar Castle specializes in pre-owned and vintage gear with real character, offering sales, buys, trades, and solid repairs and setups. If they don’t have the guitar or amp you’re hunting for, they can help you track it down, right over in downtown Salem.

From the Marion County newsletter, October 28, 2026

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