Changes In Intangible Assets And Goodwill (Changes In The Carrying Amount Of Goodwill By Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 29, 2011		Oct. 30, 2010
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance as of April 30, 2011	$ 524,113		$ 526,327
Benefit of excess tax amortization	(2,214)	[1]
Balance as of October 29, 2011	521,899		526,327
Tax basis of goodwill in excess of related basis	96,576
B&N Retail [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance as of April 30, 2011	225,336
Benefit of excess tax amortization		[1]
Balance as of October 29, 2011	225,336
B&N College [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance as of April 30, 2011	274,070
Benefit of excess tax amortization		[1]
Balance as of October 29, 2011	274,070
B&N.com [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance as of April 30, 2011	24,707
Benefit of excess tax amortization	(2,214)	[1]
Balance as of October 29, 2011	$ 22,493

[1] The tax basis of goodwill arising from an acquisition during the 52 weeks ended January 29, 2005 exceeded the related basis for financial reporting purposes by approximately $96,576. In accordance with ASC 740-10-30, Accounting for Income Taxes, the Company is recognizing the tax benefits of amortizing such excess as a reduction of goodwill as it is realized on the Company's income tax return.