Well DannyOKC, it seem as though you visited an LBS that normally sells to the family/ bike path crowd. You need to find a bike shop that tends to sell to the commuter/touring type cyclist, a shop like that will be better equiped with the inventory you are looking for. Try to find a shop that is owned and operated by a commuter him or her self, they tend to stock higher end, more rugged bikes, components and accessories that would better serve your needs. Remember, there are no bad bikes, some are just better at doing certain things then others. Commuting is tough service, the bike you chose for even short commutes, that are ridden daily and carry a variety of loads in all kinds of weather, needs to be heavy duty in the frame area, be equiped with a dependable, heavy duty component group, have racks to carry your things, fenders to protect you and the bike, lights to see your way and tires that are durable, flat resistant and long wearing. Most comfort/family type recreational bicycles cannot survive the commuting environment and afford the rider any amount of long term dependability without costly upgrades. Commuting to work is only worth it if you have a job, if you get fired because you are always late getting to work because of flat tires and equipment failures it's can be a non-productive thing to do. Some important commuting requirements are, 1. Getting where you're going on time and dependably, 2. safely carrying what you need to carry, 3. Having enough energy to work when you get to work, 4. seeing where you are going during the trip and being seen by drivers while on the way. 5. being able to be comfortable while on the bike, 6. ride a bike that doesn't cost more than you make to maintain.
Good luck with your search.
MRFIX