I have not read thru all of the postings, but one VERY essential item in a LQS is personnel. Knowledgeable staff, whether male or female (I personally don't care), friendly, willing to make suggestions as far as colors, fabrics, etc.
Willing to help with problems, errors, measurements, etc. The staff should always acknowledge your presence when you enter the store, if they do not recognize the customer, they should offer to guide you around the store or at the very least, point out areas of interest and then leave you alone for a while. They should touch base with the customer after a while also....