Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Reconciliation Of Basic And Diluted Loss Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 30, 2010	Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 30, 2010
Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to Barnes & Noble, Inc.	$ (6,563)	$ (12,568)	$ (63,169)	$ (75,085)
Accrual of preferred stock dividends	(3,118)		(3,118)
Accretion of dividends on preferred stock	(262)		(262)
Net loss available to common shareholders	(9,943)	(12,568)	(66,549)	(75,085)
Effect of dilutive options
Net loss available to common shareholders	$ (9,943)	$ (12,568)	$ (66,549)	$ (75,085)
Basic weighted average common shares	57,261	56,708	57,207	56,239
Average dilutive options
Diluted weighted average common shares	57,261	56,708	57,207	56,239
Net loss attributable to Barnes & Noble, Inc. - Basic	$ (0.17)	$ (0.22)	$ (1.16)	$ (1.34)
Net loss attributable to Barnes & Noble, Inc. - Diluted	$ (0.17)	$ (0.22)	$ (1.16)	$ (1.34)