Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements (1) Form S-3 (No. 333-23855, No. 333-69731, No. 33-84826 and No. 33-89258) and (2) Form S-8 (No. 333-27033, No. 33-89260, No. 333-90538, No. 333-116382, No. 333-59111, No. 333-160560 and No. 333-183869) pertaining to the Employees’ Savings Plan of Barnes & Noble, Inc. of our reports dated July 26, 2013, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Barnes & Noble, Inc. and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Barnes & Noble, Inc., included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended April 27, 2013.

/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP

New York, New York

July 26, 2013