Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 01, 2014	Feb. 02, 2013
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (8,363)	$ 2,545
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	104
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	104
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(8,259)	2,545
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(779)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Books-A-Million	$ (7,480)	$ 2,545