Barnes & Noble

06/04/05

Bathrooms Not Clean by Aron S. at InsiderPages

Contributor at Insider Pages

It's funny how a little thing can color your experience of a business. One does not go to a bookstore to use the restroom. In essence this Barnes & Noble is like every other in that they have something for everyone and a Starbucks in the corner. What can make a chain store stand out is the little things like service. In this place it was obvious that the restrooms had not been attended to in some time. When I pointed this out to the staff and returned to the restroom about half an hour later I found that a decidedly half-assed job had been done. I can go anywhere to look at books. But, to get my business it's helpful to have a clean restroom. Don't you think?

06/10/09

Where is customer service?

by LynneP at Citysearch

Today I needed some children's books and four gift cards from this mall bookstore (a total of nearly $200). I expected to be greeted in a friendly manner by a cashier, treated efficiently, and thanked at the end of the transaction. However, the clerk whose nametag read "Jason," never said hello, handled my questions and payment brusquely, and gave me my purchases without a thank you. Now I remember why I seldom set foot inside a physical bookstore any more. Amazon is programmed to appreciate my business.

• Pros: Attractive store, good selection of books
• Cons: Poor customer service

An easy-access resource for books of any stripe, with impressive children's, business and bestseller sections.

by Contributor at Citysearch

In Short
Established in 1873 and still thriving, this mainstream bookseller boasts almost 600 locations and does brisk online business as well. Ubiquitous and well organized, Barnes & Noble arranges its huge book selection in 22 user-friendly categories, from Art and Architecture to Romance and Travel. Stores host seasonal book signings and family-friendly "Storytimes." Many locations also offer music, movies and cafes that serve Starbucks coffee.