Hobby Lobby in Peru forced to close, state doesn't deem store essential

Hobby Lobby in Peru was forced to close its doors to the public Thursday afternoon because the state doesn’t deem the business to be essential.

Peru Police Chief Doug Bernabei said the department received a call from a lieutenant of the Illinois State Police out of Lockport, who said the state received complaints about Hobby Lobby being open.

Hobby Lobby in Peru opened its doors to the public on Monday. Hobby Lobby’s corporate office deemed them an essential store because they sell supplies that can make/manufacture face masks and coverings and because the store sells learning materials for e-learning and school children.

The following Hobby Lobby stores are “temporarily closed” in Illinois: Pekin, Peoria, Normal, Forsyth, Springfield, Champaign, Moline, Bradley, according to the company’s website. There is a store in Davenport, Iowa, that is open.

The ISP and governor’s office determined that Hobby Lobby is not an essential business and can only open for curbside service, Bernabei said.

Peru police contacted a corporate attorney with Hobby Lobby about the situation and the state’s position.

The company decided to shut its Peru doors to the public without the need for a cease and desist letter, Bernabei said.

“No argue, no fight,” he said.

A call to Hobby Lobby’s public relations office was not immediately returned.