What You Need to Know
Barnes & Noble opened a new three-floor store at 150 N State Street in Chicago’s Loop, occupying the historic building that was once a flagship Borders Bookstore and more recently an Old Navy. The store spans more than 20,000 square feet and carries books, toys, games, magazines, gifts and more across its three floors. It is the fourth new Barnes & Noble to open in the Chicagoland area this year, following new locations in Skokie, Hyde Park and Oak Park. CEO James Daunt said the opening reinforces the brand’s commitment to Chicago, where it has now opened four new stores in the past year.
The Loop opening is part of a broader growth push for Barnes & Noble, which has been expanding rapidly after years of declining store counts. The chain now operates more than 720 bookstores and is on track to open 60 new stores in 2026. The strategy driving the growth puts local booksellers in control of each store’s curation and feel, which the company credits for strong sales across its existing locations. Grand opening weekend featured exclusive deals including double stamps for members and discounts on NOOK devices and movies.
