Changes In Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
	Jul. 28, 2012		Jul. 30, 2011	Jul. 28, 2012 B&N Retail		Jul. 28, 2012 B&N College	Apr. 28, 2012 B&N College	Jul. 28, 2012 Nook	Apr. 28, 2012 Nook
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$ 519,685		$ 523,006	$ 225,336		$ 274,070	$ 274,070	$ 20,279	$ 20,279
Benefit of excess tax amortization	(1,107)	[1]		(1,107)	[1]
Ending Balance	$ 518,578		$ 523,006	$ 224,229		$ 274,070	$ 274,070	$ 20,279	$ 20,279

[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.