I love what Becca said. LQS generally have people passionate about quilts and it's reflected in their enthusiasm and helpfulness.
I worry about those shops these days and try to support mine.
I'm not a Walmart shopper and Joann's is only for notions for me. Sometimes I've gotten really sweet people to help me with batting etc. Just depends. Many are not very knowledgeable as others have said but I have found lovely people there who want to help.
I also like to shop online though and haven't had trouble with colors on my monitor, at least not yet :)
I love petting the fabric, a downside of online shopping lol