Changes In Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended			6 Months Ended				6 Months Ended
	Oct. 27, 2012		Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 27, 2012 B&N Retail		Oct. 27, 2012 B&N College	Apr. 28, 2012 B&N College	Oct. 27, 2012 Nook
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$ 519,685		$ 521,899	$ 225,336		$ 274,070	$ 274,070	$ 20,279
Benefit of excess tax amortization	(2,214)	[1]		(2,214)	[1]
Tikatok Impairment	(1,947)							(1,947)
Ending Balance	$ 515,524		$ 521,899	$ 223,122		$ 274,070	$ 274,070	$ 18,332

[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.