Barnes & Noble, Inc.: United States Securities and Exchange Commission

10-Q 1 d282054d10q.
htm FORM 10-Q
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended October 29, 2016
OR
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES

EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number: 1-12302
BARNES & NOBLE, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Delaware 06-1196501
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
122 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(212) 633-3300
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, if Changed Since Last Report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any,
every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this
chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post
such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a
smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting
company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer ☒ Accelerated filer ☐

Non-accelerated filer ☐ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange
Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
As of October 31, 2016, 72,682,568 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share, were outstanding, which
number includes 76,706 shares of unvested restricted stock that have voting rights and are held by members of the Board
of Directors and the Company’s employees.
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BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Fiscal Quarter Ended October 29, 2016

Index to Form 10-Q
Page No.
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Consolidated Statements of Operations – For the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and
October 31, 2015 3
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss – For the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 29,
2016 and October 31, 2015 4
Consolidated Balance Sheets – October 29, 2016, October 31, 2015 and April 30, 2016 5
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity – For the 26 weeks ended October
29, 2016 6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – For the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October
31, 2015 7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 9
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 25
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 37
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 37
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 38
Item 1A. Risk Factors 40
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 40
Item 6. Exhibits 41
SIGNATURES 42
EXHIBIT INDEX 43
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PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1: Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Operations

(In thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)
13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

October 29, October 31, October 29, October 31,
2016 2015 2016 2015
Sales $858,548 894,654 $1,772,430 1,873,213

Cost of sales and occupancy 603,173 624,868 1,239,516 1,303,329
Gross profit 255,375 269,786 532,914 569,884
Selling and administrative expenses 254,646 290,281 522,537 562,411
Depreciation and amortization 29,994 35,064 61,031 68,717
Operating loss (29,265) (55,559) (50,654) (61,244)
Interest expense, net and amortization of deferred financing fees 1,961 2,338 3,590 5,257
Loss before taxes (31,226) (57,897) (54,244) (66,501)
Income taxes (10,817) (30,694) (19,419) (31,547)
Net loss from continuing operations $ (20,409) (27,203) $ (34,825) (34,954)
Net loss from discontinued operations — (12,023) — (39,146)
Net loss $ (20,409) (39,226) $ (34,825) (74,100)
Basic loss per common share:

Loss from continuing operations $ (0.29) (0.36) $ (0.49) (0.64)
Loss from discontinued operations — (0.16) — (0.55)
Basic loss per common share $ (0.29) (0.52) $ (0.49) (1.20)
Diluted loss per common share:

Diluted loss per common share $ (0.29) (0.52) $ (0.49) (1.20)
Weighted average common shares outstanding:

Basic 72,212 75,557 72,558 70,552
Diluted 72,212 75,557 72,558 70,552
Dividends declared per common share $ 0.15 0.15 $ 0.30 0.30
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss
(In thousands)
(unaudited)

2016 2015 2016 2015
Net loss $ (20,409) (39,226) $ (34,825) (74,100)

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Decrease in postretirement plan liability (net of tax expense of
$30) — — 47 —
Total comprehensive loss $ (20,409) (39,226) $ (34,778) (74,100)
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Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except per share data)
October 29, October 31, April 30,

2016 2015 2016
(unaudited) (unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 11,365 13,367 13,838
Receivables, net 75,744 82,355 124,917
Merchandise inventories, net 1,218,822 1,219,878 933,723
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 129,404 148,589 105,912
Total current assets 1,435,335 1,464,189 1,178,390
Property and equipment:
Land and land improvements 2,541 2,541 2,541
Buildings and leasehold improvements 1,062,377 1,061,527 1,058,452
Fixtures and equipment 1,592,849 1,573,300 1,560,005
2,657,767 2,637,368 2,620,998
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 2,369,074 2,314,184 2,322,418
Net property and equipment 288,693 323,184 298,580
Goodwill 211,276 215,197 211,276
Intangible assets, net 310,543 315,038 310,904
Other non-current assets 11,916 12,302 13,632
Total assets $ 2,257,763 2,329,910 2,012,782
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 717,220 730,387 480,574
Accrued liabilities 311,150 325,393 360,194
Gift card liabilities 344,044 330,474 353,103
Total current liabilities 1,372,414 1,386,254 1,193,871
Long-term debt 191,423 192,000 47,200
Long-term deferred taxes 54,290 15,795 54,017
Other long-term liabilities 110,844 153,435 114,184
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock; $0.001 par value; 300,000 shares authorized; 111,560,
110,595 and 111,228 shares issued, respectively 112 111 112
Additional paid-in capital 1,741,120 1,731,696 1,738,034
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 198 (16,533) 151
Retained earnings (81,319) (51,045) (24,349)
Treasury stock, at cost, 39,741, 34,961 and 37,941 shares, respectively (1,131,319) (1,081,803) (1,110,438)
Total shareholders’ equity 528,792 582,426 603,510
Commitments and contingencies — — —
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 2,257,763 2,329,910 2,012,782
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Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
For the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016
(In thousands)
(unaudited)
Accumulated
Additional Other Treasury
Common Paid-In Comprehensive Retained Stock at
Stock Capital Gains Earnings Cost Total
Balance at April 30, 2016 $ 112 1,738,034 151 (24,349) (1,110,438) $603,510
Net loss — — — (34,825) — (34,825)
Postretirement plan liability, net of tax — — 47 — — 47
Exercise of 31 common stock options — 312 — — — 312
Stock options and restricted stock tax
expense — (388) — — — (388)
Stock-based compensation expense — 3,162 — — — 3,162
Cash dividends declared — — — (22,104) — (22,104)
Accrued dividends for long-term incentive
awards — — — (41) — (41)
Purchase of treasury stock related to stock-
based compensation, 91 shares — — — — (1,093) (1,093)
Treasury stock repurchase plan, 1,709 shares — — — — (19,788) (19,788)
Balance at October 29, 2016 $ 112 1,741,120 198 (81,319) (1,131,319) $528,792
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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands)
(unaudited)
26 weeks ended
October 29, October 31,
2016 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss $ (34,825) (74,100)
Net loss from discontinued operations — (39,146)
Net loss from continuing operations $ (34,825) (34,954)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization (including amortization of deferred financing fees) 62,000 71,027
Stock-based compensation expense 3,162 7,944
Loss on disposal of property and equipment 974 1,171
Net decrease in other long-term liabilities (3,263) (8,774)
Net (increase) decrease in other non-current assets 1,201 (1,007)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net (80,999) (79,097)
Net cash flows used in operating activities (51,750) (43,690)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (51,737) (50,721)
Net cash flows used in investing activities (51,737) (50,721)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from credit facility 645,423 436,200
Payments on credit facility (501,200) (244,200)
Cash dividends paid (22,104) (23,359)
Treasury stock repurchase plan (19,788) —
Purchase of treasury stock related to stock-based compensation (1,093) (2,087)
Payment of new credit facility related fees (474) (5,701)
Proceeds from exercise of common stock options 312 607
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation 14 1,755
Cash dividends paid for long-term incentive awards (76) —
Cash settlement of equity award — (8,022)
Cash dividends paid to preferred shareholders — (3,941)
Inducement fee paid upon conversion of Series J preferred stock — (3,657)
Net cash flows provided by financing activities 101,014 147,595
Cash flows from discontinued operations:
Operating cash flows — (86,384)
Investing cash flows — (11,764)
Financing cash flows (including cash at date of Spin-Off) — (16,029)
Net cash flows used in discontinued operations — (114,177)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (2,473) (60,993)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 13,838 74,360
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 11,365 13,367
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net:
Receivables, net $ 49,173 (22,090)
Merchandise inventories, net (285,099) (224,140)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (23,522) (54,624)
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and gift card liabilities 178,449 221,757
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net $ (80,999) (79,097)

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)
(In thousands)
(unaudited)
26 weeks ended
2016 2015
Supplemental cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest $ 2,491 9,569
Income taxes (net of refunds) $ 2,145 6,471
Non-cash financing activity:
Accrued dividends for long-term incentive awards $ 415 190
Dividends to preferred stockholders paid in shares $ — 1,783
Issuance of common stock upon conversion of Series J preferred stock $ — 200,262
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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
For the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015
(Thousands of dollars, except per share data)
(unaudited)
The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Barnes & Noble, Inc. and its
subsidiaries (collectively, Barnes & Noble or the Company).
In the opinion of the Company’s management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of
the Company contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly its
consolidated financial position as of October 29, 2016 and the results of its operations for the 13 and 26 weeks and its cash
flows for the 26 weeks then ended. These consolidated financial statements are condensed and therefore do not include all
of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles. The consolidated financial
statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the 52 weeks ended
April 30, 2016 (fiscal 2016).
Due to the seasonal nature of the business, the results of operations for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 are
not indicative of the results expected for the 52 weeks ending April 29, 2017 (fiscal 2017).
1. Separation of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

On February 26, 2015, Barnes & Noble announced plans for the legal and structural separation of Barnes &
Noble Education, Inc. (Barnes & Noble Education or B&N Education) (formerly known as NOOK Media Inc.) from
Barnes & Noble into an independent public company (the Spin-Off).
On July 14, 2015, the Barnes & Noble board of directors (the Board) approved the final distribution ratio and
declared a pro rata dividend of the outstanding shares of B&N Education common stock, which resulted in the complete
legal and structural separation of the two companies. The distribution was subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain
conditions as set forth in B&N Education’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, which was filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 26, 2015 and was amended on April 29, 2015, June 4, 2015, June 29,
2015, July 13, 2015, July 14, 2015 and July 15, 2015.
On August 2, 2015, Barnes & Noble completed the Spin-Off of Barnes & Noble Education and distributed, on a
pro rata basis, all of the shares of B&N Education common stock to the Company’s stockholders of record as of July 27,
2015. These Barnes & Noble stockholders of record as of July 27, 2015 received a distribution of 0.632 shares of B&N
Education common stock for each share of Barnes & Noble common stock held as of the record date. Immediately
following the completion of the Spin-Off, the Company’s stockholders owned 100% of the outstanding shares of common
stock of B&N Education. Following the Spin-Off, B&N Education operates as an independent public company and as the
parent of Barnes & Noble College, trading on New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “BNED”.
In connection with the separation of B&N Education, the Company and B&N Education entered into a
Separation and Distribution Agreement on July 14, 2015 and several other ancillary agreements on August 2, 2015. These
agreements govern the relationship between the Company and B&N Education after the separation and allocate between
the Company and B&N Education various assets, liabilities, rights and obligations following the separation, including
employee benefits, intellectual property, information technology, insurance and tax-related assets and liabilities. The
agreements also describe the Company’s future commitments to provide B&N Education with certain transition services.
This Spin-Off is expected to be a non-taxable event for Barnes & Noble and its shareholders, and Barnes &
Noble’s U.S. shareholders (other than those subject to special rules) generally will not recognize gain or loss as a result of
the distribution of B&N Education shares.
2. History of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

On September 30, 2009, Barnes & Noble acquired Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, LLC (B&N College)
from Leonard and Louise Riggio. From that date until October 4, 2012, B&N College was wholly owned by Barnes &
Noble Booksellers, Inc. B&N Education was initially incorporated under the name NOOK Media Inc. in July 2012 to hold
Barnes & Noble’s B&N College and NOOK digital businesses. On October 4, 2012, Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft)
acquired a 17.6% non-controlling preferred membership interest in B&N Education’s subsidiary B&N Education, LLC
(formerly NOOK Media LLC) (the LLC), and through B&N Education, Barnes & Noble maintained an 82.4% controlling
interest of the B&N College and NOOK digital businesses.
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On January 22, 2013, Pearson Education, Inc. (Pearson) acquired a 5% non-controlling preferred membership
interest in the LLC, entered into a commercial agreement with the LLC relating to the B&N College business and received
warrants to purchase an additional preferred membership interest in the LLC.
On December 4, 2014, B&N Education re-acquired Microsoft’s interest in the LLC in exchange for cash and
common stock of Barnes & Noble and the Microsoft commercial agreement was terminated effective as of such date. On
December 22, 2014, B&N Education also re-acquired Pearson’s interest in the LLC and certain related warrants
previously issued to Pearson. In connection with these transactions, Barnes & Noble entered into contingent payment
agreements with Microsoft and Pearson providing for additional payments upon the occurrence of certain events,
including upon a sale of the NOOK digital business. As a result of these transactions, Barnes & Noble owned, prior to the
Spin-Off, 100% of B&N Education.
On May 1, 2015, B&N Education distributed to Barnes & Noble all of the membership interests in B&N
Education’s NOOK digital business. As a result, B&N Education ceased to own any interest in the NOOK digital
business, which remains a wholly owned subsidiary of Barnes & Noble.
3. Discontinued Operations of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

The Company has recognized the separation of B&N Education in accordance with Accounting Standards
Codification (ASC) 205-20, Discontinued Operations. As such, the historical results of Barnes & Noble Education have
been adjusted to include separation-related costs and exclude corporate allocations with B&N Retail, and have been
classified as discontinued operations.
Discontinued operations in the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015 primarily consisted of investment banking fees
(as it directly related to the Spin-Off) and separation-related costs.
Discontinued operations in the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015 primarily consisted of pre-spin B&N
Education results, investment banking fees (as it directly related to the Spin-Off), separation-related costs and excluded
corporate allocation adjustments with B&N Retail.
The following unaudited financial information presents the discontinued operations for the 13 and 26 weeks
ended October 31, 2015:

2015 2015
Sales $ — $ 238,983
Cost of sales and occupancy — 186,697
Gross profit — 52,286
Selling and administrative expenses 8,289 94,933
Depreciation and amortization — 13,100
Operating loss from discontinued operations (8,289) (55,747)
Interest expense, net and amortization of deferred
financing fees — 3
Loss before taxes from discontinued operations (8,289) (55,750)
Income taxes 3,734 (16,604)
Net loss from discontinued operations $ (12,023) $ (39,146)
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4. EBook Settlement
The Company provided credits to eligible customers resulting from the settlement reached with Apple Inc.
(Apple) in an antitrust lawsuit filed by various State Attorneys General and private class plaintiffs regarding the price of
digital books. The Company’s customers were entitled to $95,707 in total credits as a result of the settlement, which is
funded by Apple. If a customer’s credit is not used to make a purchase within one year, the entire credit will expire. The
Company recorded estimated redemptions of $56,527 during fiscal 2016 as a receivable from the Apple settlement fund
and a liability to its customers with a deadline of June 2017 for the activation of all credits. As of October 29, 2016, the
Company’s customers had activated $50,610 in credits, of which $39,771 were redeemed. Total receivables from the
Apple settlement fund were $7,616 as of October 29, 2016.
5. Merchandise Inventories
Merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined primarily by the retail
inventory method under the first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. NOOK merchandise inventories are recorded based on the
average cost method.
Market is determined based on the estimated net realizable value, which is generally the selling price. Reserves
for non-returnable inventory are based on the Company’s history of liquidating non-returnable inventory.
The Company also estimates and accrues shortage for the period between the last physical count of inventory
and the balance sheet date. Shortage rates are estimated and accrued based on historical rates and can be affected by
changes in merchandise mix and changes in actual shortage trends.
6. Revenue Recognition
Revenue from sales of the Company’s products is recognized at the time of sale or shipment, other than those
with multiple elements and Free On Board (FOB) destination point shipping terms. The Company accrues for estimated
sales returns in the period in which the related revenue is recognized based on historical experience. ECommerce revenue
from sales of products ordered through the Company’s websites is recognized upon estimated delivery and receipt of the
shipment by its customers. Freight costs are included within the Company’s cost of sales and occupancy. Sales taxes
collected from retail customers are excluded from reported revenues. All of the Company’s sales are recognized as
revenue on a “net” basis, including sales in connection with any periodic promotions offered to customers. The Company
does not treat any promotional offers as expenses.
In accordance with ASC 605-25, Revenue Recognition, Multiple-Element Arrangements, and Accounting
Standards Updates (ASU) 2009-13 and 2009-14, for multiple-element arrangements that involve tangible products that
contain software that is essential to the tangible product’s functionality, undelivered software elements that relate to the
tangible product’s essential software and other separable elements, the Company allocates revenue to all deliverables
using the relative selling-price method. Under this method, revenue is allocated at the time of sale to all deliverables based
on their relative selling price using a specific hierarchy. The hierarchy is as follows: vendor-specific objective evidence,
third-party evidence of selling price, or best estimate of selling price. NOOK® device revenue is recognized at the segment
point of sale.
The Company includes post-service customer support (PCS) in the form of software updates and potential
increased functionality on a when-and-if-available basis with the purchase of a NOOK® from the Company. Using the
relative selling-price method described above, the Company allocates revenue based on the best estimate of selling price
for the deliverables as no vendor-specific objective evidence or third-party evidence exists for any of the elements.
Revenue allocated to NOOK® and the software essential to its functionality is recognized at the time of sale, provided all
other conditions for revenue recognition are met. Revenue allocated to the PCS is deferred and recognized on a straight-
line basis over the 2-year estimated life of a NOOK® device.
The average percentage of a NOOK®’s sales price that is deferred for undelivered items and recognized over its
2-year estimated life ranges between 0% and 5%, depending on the type of device sold. The amount of NOOK®-related
deferred revenue as of October 29, 2016, October 31, 2015 and April 30, 2016 was $354, $675 and $160, respectively.
These amounts are classified on the Company’s balance sheet in accrued liabilities for the portion that is subject to
deferral for one year or less and other long-term liabilities for the portion that is subject to deferral for more than one year.
The Company also pays certain vendors who distributed NOOK® a commission on the content sales sold
through that device. The Company accounted for these transactions as a reduction in the sales price of the NOOK® based
on historical trends of content sales and a liability was established for the estimated commission expected to be paid over
the life of the product. The Company recognizes revenue of the content at the point of sale of the content. The Company
records revenue from sales of digital content, sales of third-party extended warranties, service contracts and other
products, for which the Company is not obligated to perform, and for which the Company does not meet the criteria for
gross revenue recognition under ASC 605-45-45, Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent, on a
net basis. All other revenue is recognized on a gross basis.
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The Company rents physical textbooks. Revenue from the rental of physical textbooks is deferred and
recognized over the rental period commencing at point of sale. The Company offers a buyout option to allow the purchase
of a rented book at the end of the semester. The Company records the buyout purchase when the customer exercises and
pays the buyout option price. In these instances, the Company would accelerate any remaining deferred rental revenue at
the point of sale.
NOOK acquires the rights to distribute digital content from publishers and distributes the content on
www.barnesandnoble.com, NOOK® devices and other eBookstore platforms. Certain digital content is distributed under
an agency pricing model, in which the publishers set prices for eBooks and NOOK receives a commission on content sold
through the eBookstore. The majority of the Company’s eBooks are sold under the agency model.
The Barnes & Noble Member Program offers members greater discounts and other benefits for products and
services, as well as exclusive offers and promotions via e-mail or direct mail, for an annual fee of $25.00, which is non-
refundable after the first 30 days. Revenue is recognized over the 12-month period based upon historical spending patterns
for Barnes & Noble Members.
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts
with Customers (ASU 2014-09). The standard provides companies with a single model for use in accounting for revenue
arising from contracts with customers and supersedes current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific
revenue guidance. The core principle of the model is to recognize revenue when control of the goods or services transfers
to the customer, as opposed to recognizing revenue when the risks and rewards transfer to the customer under the existing
revenue guidance. ASU 2014-09, as amended by ASU 2015-14, ASU 2016-08, ASU 2016-10 and ASU 2016-12, is
effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting
period. Earlier application is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The guidance
permits companies to either apply the requirements retrospectively to all prior periods presented, or apply the requirements
in the year of adoption, through a cumulative adjustment. The Company has not yet selected a transition method nor has it
determined the impact of adoption on its consolidated financial statements.
7. Research and Development Costs for Software Products

The Company follows the guidance in ASC 985-20, Cost of Software to Be Sold, Leased or Marketed, regarding
research and development costs for software products to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed. Capitalization of software
development costs begins upon the establishment of technological feasibility and is discontinued when the product is
available for sale. A certain amount of judgment and estimation is required to assess when technological feasibility is
established, as well as for the ongoing assessment of the recoverability of capitalized costs. The Company’s products
reach technological feasibility shortly before the products are released and, therefore, research and development costs are
generally expensed as incurred.
8. Internal-Use Software and Website Development Costs

Direct costs incurred to develop software for internal use and website development costs are capitalized and
amortized over an estimated useful life of three to seven years. The Company capitalized costs, primarily related to labor,
consulting, hardware and software, of $10,622 and $17,221 during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31,
2015, respectively. Amortization of previously capitalized amounts was $6,154 and $8,156 during the 13 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively, and $12,749 and $15,242 during the 26 weeks ended October 29,
2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. Costs related to the design or maintenance of internal-use software and website
development are expensed as incurred.
9. Net Earnings (Loss) per Share

In accordance with ASC 260-10-45, Share-Based Payment Arrangements and Participating Securities and the
Two-Class Method, unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to receive non-forfeitable dividends are
considered participating securities. The Company’s unvested restricted shares and unvested restricted stock units granted
prior to July 15, 2015 and shares issuable under the Company’s deferred compensation plan are considered participating
securities. Cash dividends to restricted stock units and performance-based stock units granted on or after July 15, 2015 are
not distributed until and except to the extent that the restricted stock units vest, and in the case of performance-based stock
units, until and except to the extent that the performance metrics are achieved or are otherwise deemed satisfied. Stock
options do not receive cash dividends. As such, these awards are not considered participating securities.
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Basic earnings per common share are calculated by dividing the net income, adjusted for preferred dividends and
income allocated to participating securities, by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the
period. Diluted net income per common share reflects the dilution that would occur if any potentially dilutive instruments
were exercised or converted into common shares. The dilutive effect of participating securities is calculated using the
more dilutive of the treasury stock method or two-class method. Other potentially dilutive securities include preferred
stock, stock options, restricted stock units granted after July 15, 2015, and performance-based stock units and are included
in diluted shares to the extent they are dilutive under the treasury stock method for the applicable periods.
During periods of net loss, no effect is given to the participating securities because they do not share in the
losses of the Company. Due to the net loss during the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015 and the 26
weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, participating securities in the amounts of 1,224,579, 2,330,973,
1,305,303 and 2,512,070, respectively, were excluded from the calculation of loss per share using the two-class method
because the effect would be antidilutive. The Company’s outstanding non-participating securities consisting of dilutive
stock options of 75,438, 198,596, 81,338 and 170,247 for the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, and
the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively, and accretion/payments of dividends on
preferred shares were also excluded from the calculation of loss per share using the two-class method because the effect
would be antidilutive.
The following is a reconciliation of the Company’s basic and diluted loss per share calculation:

2016 2015 2016 2015
Numerator for basic loss per share:
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to
Barnes & Noble, Inc. $ (20,409) (27,203) $ (34,825) (34,954)
Inducement fee paid upon conversion of Series J
preferred stock — — — (3,657)
Preferred stock dividends paid in shares — — — (1,783)
Accretion of dividends on preferred stock — — — (4,204)
Less allocation of dividends to participating
securities (188) (332) (391) (692)
Net loss from continuing operations available to common
shareholders $ (20,597) (27,535) $ (35,216) (45,290)
Net loss from discontinued operations available to
common shareholders — (12,023) — (39,146)
Net loss available to common shareholders $ (20,597) (39,558) $ (35,216) (84,436)
Numerator for diluted loss per share:

Net loss from continuing operations available to common
shareholders $ (20,597) (27,535) $ (35,216) (45,290)
Net loss from discontinued operations available to
common shareholders — (12,023) — (39,146)
Net loss available to common shareholders $ (20,597) (39,558) $ (35,216) (84,436)
Denominator for basic and diluted loss per share:

Basic and diluted weighted average common shares 72,212 75,557 72,558 70,552
Basic loss per common share:
Basic loss per common share $ (0.29) (0.52) $ (0.49) (1.20)
Diluted loss per common share:

Diluted loss per common share $ (0.29) (0.52) $ (0.49) (1.20)
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10. Segment Reporting

The Company’s two operating segments are B&N Retail and NOOK.
B&N Retail
This segment includes 638 bookstores as of October 29, 2016, primarily under the Barnes & Noble Booksellers
trade name. These Barnes & Noble stores generally offer a comprehensive trade book title base, a café, and departments
dedicated to Juvenile, Toys & Games, DVDs, Music & Vinyl, Gift, Magazine, Bargain products and a dedicated NOOK®
area. The stores also offer a calendar of ongoing events, including author appearances and children’s activities. The B&N
Retail segment also includes the Company’s eCommerce website, www.barnesandnoble.com, and its publishing operation,
Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
NOOK
This segment includes the Company’s digital business, including the development and support of the Company’s
NOOK® product offerings. The digital business includes digital content such as eBooks, digital newsstand and sales of
NOOK® devices and accessories to B&N Retail.
Summarized financial information concerning the Company’s reportable segments is presented below:
Sales by Segment 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

2016 2015 2016 2015
B&N Retail $830,719 860,705 $1,712,432 1,799,703
NOOK 35,042 43,496 76,090 97,831
Elimination (a) (7,213) (9,547) (16,092) (24,321)
Total $858,548 894,654 $1,772,430 1,873,213
Sales by Product Line 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

2016 2015 2016 2015
Media (b) 71% 71% 71% 72%

Digital (c) 4% 5% 4% 6%
Other (d) 25% 24% 25% 22%
Total 100% 100% 100% 100%
Depreciation and Amortization 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

2016 2015 2016 2015
B&N Retail $ 24,558 26,446 $ 49,520 51,226

NOOK 5,436 8,618 11,511 17,491
Total $ 29,994 35,064 $ 61,031 68,717
Operating Loss 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

2016 2015 2016 2015
B&N Retail $ (21,083) (25,662) $ (28,450) (5,138)
NOOK (8,182) (29,897) (22,204) (56,106)
Total $ (29,265) (55,559) $ (50,654) (61,244)
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Capital Expenditures 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

2016 2015 2016 2015
B&N Retail $ 27,381 24,780 $ 49,207 44,545
NOOK 1,554 3,254 2,530 6,176
Total $ 28,935 28,034 $ 51,737 50,721
As of As of
Total Assets (e) October 29, 2016 October 31, 2015
B&N Retail $ 2,134,004 1,921,912
NOOK 123,759 407,998
Total $ 2,257,763 2,329,910
(a) Represents sales from NOOK to B&N Retail on a sell-through basis.

(b) Includes tangible books, music, movies, rentals and newsstand.
(c) Includes NOOK®, related accessories, eContent and warranties.
(d) Includes Toys & Games, café products, gifts and miscellaneous other.
(e) Excludes intercompany balances.
A reconciliation of operating loss from reportable segments to loss from continuing operations before taxes in
the consolidated financial statements is as follows:

2016 2015 2016 2015
Reportable segments operating loss $ (29,265) (55,559) $ (50,654) (61,244)
Interest expense, net and amortization of deferred
financing costs 1,961 2,338 3,590 5,257
Consolidated loss before taxes $ (31,226) (57,897) $ (54,244) (66,501)
11. Intangible Assets and Goodwill
As of October 29, 2016

Useful Gross Carrying Accumulated
Amortizable Intangible Assets Life Amount Amortization Total
Technology 5-10 $ 10,710 (9,793) $ 917
Distribution contracts 10 8,325 (8,053) 272
Other 3-10 6,395 (6,335) 60
$ 25,430 (24,181) $ 1,249
Unamortizable Intangible Assets

Trade name $293,400
Publishing contracts 15,894
$309,294
Total amortizable and unamortizable intangible assets $310,543
As of October 31, 2015

Useful Gross Carrying Accumulated
Amortizable Intangible Assets Life Amount Amortization Total
Technology 5-10 $ 10,710 (9,385) $ 1,325
Distribution contracts 10 8,325 (7,757) 568
Other 3-10 6,271 (6,260) 11
$ 25,306 (23,402) $ 1,904
Unamortizable Intangible Assets

Trade name $293,400
Publishing contracts 19,734
$313,134
Total amortizable and unamortizable intangible assets $315,038
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All amortizable intangible assets are being amortized over their useful life on a straight-line basis.
Aggregate Amortization Expense

For the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 $381
For the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015 $615
Estimated Amortization Expense

(12 months ending on or about April 30)
2017 $759
2018 $547
2019 $324
The carrying amount of goodwill was $211,276 and $215,197 as of October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015,
respectively.
12. Gift Cards

The Company sells gift cards, which can be used in its stores, on www.barnesandnoble.com, on NOOK® devices
and at B&N Education stores. The Company does not charge administrative or dormancy fees on gift cards and gift cards
have no expiration dates. Upon the purchase of a gift card, a liability is established for its cash value. Revenue associated
with gift cards is deferred until redemption of the gift card. Gift cards redeemed at B&N Education are funded by the gift
card liability at the Company. Over time, a portion of the gift cards issued is typically not redeemed. The Company
estimates the portion of the gift card liability for which the likelihood of redemption is remote based upon the Company’s
historical redemption patterns. The Company records this amount in income on a straight-line basis over a 12-month
period beginning in the 13th month after the month the gift card was originally sold. The Company does not believe there
is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to recognize revenue
associated with gift cards. Additional breakage may be required if gift card redemptions continue to run lower than
historical patterns.
The Company recognized gift card breakage of $4,835 and $5,198 during the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016
and October 31, 2015, respectively, and $9,756 and $10,588 during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31,
2015, respectively. The Company had gift card liabilities of $344,044 and $330,474 as of October 29, 2016 and
October 31, 2015, respectively.
13. Other Long-Term Liabilities

Other long-term liabilities consist primarily of deferred rent, tax liabilities and reserves, long-term insurance
liabilities and asset retirement obligations. The Company provides for minimum rent expense over the lease terms
(including the build-out period) on a straight-line basis. The excess of such rent expense over actual lease payments (net of
tenant allowances) is classified as deferred rent. Other long-term liabilities also include store closing expenses and long-
term deferred revenues. The Company had the following other long-term liabilities at October 29, 2016, October 31, 2015
and April 30, 2016:
October 29, October 31, April 30,

2016 2015 2016
Deferred rent $ 63,741 79,422 70,006
Tax liabilities and reserves 13,758 43,090 13,758
Insurance liabilities 15,296 15,878 15,219
Asset retirement obligations 12,819 11,658 11,268
Other 5,230 3,387 3,933
Total other long-term liabilities $110,844 153,435 114,184
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14. Income Taxes

The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $10,817 on a pre-tax loss of $31,226 during the 13 weeks
ended October 29, 2016, which represented an effective income tax rate of 34.6%. The Company recorded an income tax
benefit of $30,694 on pre-tax loss of $57,897 during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015, which represented an effective
income tax rate of 53.0%.
The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $19,419 on a pre-tax loss of $54,244 during the 26 weeks
ended October 29, 2016, which represented an effective income tax rate of 35.8%. The Company recorded an income tax
benefit of $31,547 on pre-tax loss of $66,501 during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015, which represented an effective
income tax rate of 47.4%.
The income tax benefits for the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively,
differs from the statutory rate due to the impact of permanent items such as meals and entertainment, non-deductible
executive compensation, tax credits, changes in uncertain tax positions and the impact of return to provision adjustments
and state income taxes, net of federal benefit. The Company continues to maintain a valuation allowance against certain
state items.
15. Fair Values of Financial Instruments

In accordance with ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820), the fair value of an asset is
considered to be the price at which the asset could be sold in an orderly transaction between unrelated, knowledgeable and
willing parties. A liability’s fair value is defined as the amount that would be paid to transfer the liability to a new obligor,
not the amount that would be paid to settle the liability with the creditor. Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value are
measured using a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers
include:
Level 1 – Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices in active markets

Level 2 – Inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring the Company to develop its
own assumptions
The Company’s financial instruments include cash, receivables, gift cards, accrued liabilities, accounts payable
and its credit facility. The fair values of cash, receivables, gift cards, accrued liabilities and accounts payable approximate
carrying values because of the short-term nature of these instruments. The Company believes that its credit facility
approximates fair value since interest rates are adjusted to reflect current rates.
16. Credit Facility

Prior to August 3, 2015, the Company was party to an amended and restated credit facility with Bank of
America, N.A., as administrative agent, collateral agent and swing line lender, and other lenders, dated as of April 29,
2011 (as amended and modified through August 3, 2015, the Prior Credit Facility), consisting of up to $1,000,000 in
aggregate commitments under a five-year asset-backed revolving credit facility, which was scheduled to expire on
April 29, 2016.
On August 3, 2015, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into a credit agreement (New Credit
Agreement) with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, collateral agent and swing line lender, and the other
lenders from time to time party thereto, under which the lenders committed to provide a five-year asset-backed revolving
credit facility in an aggregate committed principal amount of up to $700,000 (Revolving Credit Facility). On
September 30, 2016, the Company amended the New Credit Agreement to provide for a new “first-in, last-out” revolving
credit facility (the FILO Credit Facility and, together with the Revolving Credit Facility, the New Credit Facility) in an
aggregate principal amount of up to $50,000, which supplements availability under the Revolving Credit Facility. The
Company generally must draw down the FILO Credit Facility before making any borrowings under the Revolving Credit
Facility.
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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and
SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc. are the joint lead arrangers for the New Credit Facility. The New Credit Facility
replaced the Prior Credit Facility. Proceeds from the New Credit Facility are used for general corporate purposes,
including seasonal working capital needs.
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are permitted to borrow under the New Credit Facility. The New
Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the inventory, accounts receivable and related assets of the borrowers
under the New Credit Facility (collectively, the Loan Parties), but excluding the equity interests in the Company and its
subsidiaries, intellectual property, equipment and certain other property. Borrowings under the New Credit Facility are
limited to a specified percentage of eligible collateral. The Company has the option to request an increase in commitments
under the New Credit Facility of up to $250,000, subject to certain restrictions.
Interest under the Revolving Credit Facility accrues, at the election of the Company, at a LIBOR or alternate
base rate, plus, in each case, an applicable interest rate margin, which is determined by reference to the level of excess
availability under the Revolving Credit Facility. Through the end of the fiscal quarter during which the closing of the
Revolving Credit Facility occurred, loans under the Revolving Credit Facility bore interest at LIBOR plus 1.750% per
annum, in the case of LIBOR borrowings, or at the alternate base rate plus 0.750% per annum, in the alternative, and
thereafter the interest rate began to fluctuate between LIBOR plus 2.000% per annum and LIBOR plus 1.500% per annum
(or between the alternate base rate plus 1.000% per annum and the alternate base rate plus 0.500% per annum), based upon
the average daily availability under the Revolving Credit Facility for the immediately preceding fiscal quarter. Interest
under the FILO Credit Facility accrues, at the election of the Company, at a LIBOR or alternate base rate, plus, in each
case, an applicable interest rate margin, which is also determined by reference to the level of excess availability under the
Revolving Credit Facility. Loans under the FILO Credit Facility bear interest at 1.000% per annum more than loans under
the Revolving Credit Facility.
The New Credit Agreement contains customary negative covenants, which limit the Company’s ability to incur
additional indebtedness, create liens, make investments, make restricted payments or specified payments and merge or
acquire assets, among other things. In addition, if excess availability under the New Credit Facility were to fall below
certain specified levels, certain additional covenants (including fixed charge coverage ratio requirements) would be
triggered, and the lenders would assume dominion and control over the Loan Parties’ cash.
The New Credit Agreement contains customary events of default, including payment defaults, material breaches
of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, default on other material indebtedness, customary ERISA events of
default, bankruptcy and insolvency, material judgments, invalidity of liens on collateral, change of control or cessation of
business. The New Credit Agreement also contains customary affirmative covenants and representations and warranties.
The Company wrote off $460 of deferred financing fees related to the Prior Credit Facility during the second
quarter of fiscal 2016 and the remaining unamortized deferred financing fees of $3,542 were deferred and are being
amortized over the five-year term of the New Credit Facility. The Company also incurred $5,701 of fees to secure the
New Credit Facility, which are being amortized over the five-year term accordingly. During the second quarter of 2017,
the Company incurred $474 of fees to secure the FILO Credit Facility, which are being amortized over the same term as
the New Credit Facility.
The Company had $191,423 and $192,000 of outstanding debt under the New Credit Facility as of October 29,
2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. The Company had $46,895 and $48,318 of outstanding letters of credit under its
New Credit Facility as of October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively.
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17. Stock-Based Compensation

For the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, the Company recognized stock-based
compensation expense in selling and administrative expenses as follows:

2016 2015 2016 2015
Restricted Stock Expense $ 280 150 $ 490 390

Restricted Stock Units Expense (451) 4,278 2,110 6,914
Performance-Based Stock Unit Expense 258 183 562 250
Stock Option Expense — 181 — 390
Stock-Based Compensation Expense $ 87 4,792 $ 3,162 7,944
18. CEO Departure

On October 26, 2016, the Company entered into a release agreement (the Release Agreement) with its former
Chief Executive Officer, Ronald D. Boire. Under the Release Agreement, Mr. Boire and the Company agreed to release
claims against each other in connection with Mr. Boire’s termination of employment in exchange for a cash payment
contemplated by his employment agreement. In connection with the execution of the Release Agreement, Mr. Boire also
agreed to forfeit all equity awards that were granted to him by the Company.
The cash payment in connection with the Release Agreement totals $4,826. The Company has previously
recognized $1,933 in expense relating to the equity awards granted to Mr. Boire during his employment. Taking into
account the reversal of those expenses, the Company recorded a net charge related to the cash payment to Mr. Boire in
connection with the Release Agreement of $2,892 within selling and administrative expenses during the second quarter
ending October 29, 2016.
19. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

As of December 31, 1999, substantially all employees of the Company were covered under a non-contributory
defined benefit pension plan (the Pension Plan). As of January 1, 2000, the Pension Plan was amended so that employees
no longer earn benefits for subsequent service. Effective December 31, 2004, the Barnes & Noble.com Employees’
Retirement Plan (the B&N.com Retirement Plan) was merged with the Pension Plan. Substantially all employees of
Barnes & Noble.com were covered under the B&N.com Retirement Plan. As of July 1, 2000, the B&N.com Retirement
Plan was amended so that employees no longer earn benefits for subsequent service. Subsequent service continued to be
the basis for vesting of benefits not yet vested at December 31, 1999 and June 30, 2000 for the Pension Plan and the
B&N.com Retirement Plan, respectively.
On June 18, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a resolution to terminate the Pension Plan. The
Pension Plan termination was effective November 1, 2014 and the accrued benefit for active participants was vested as of
such date. As a result of the Pension Plan termination, pension liability and other comprehensive loss increased by
$15,747, before tax, during the 13 weeks ended August 2, 2014. The pension liability was settled in either a lump-sum
payment or a purchased annuity. A special lump-sum opportunity was offered to the terminated vested participants in the
Pension Plan during the 13 weeks ended November 1, 2014, which triggered settlement accounting in the period ended
January 31, 2015. The settlement represented 735 participants who elected to receive a lump sum of their benefit, totaling
$15,190. The distributions primarily took place in December 2014 and resulted in a settlement charge of $7,317, which
was reclassified from other comprehensive income to selling and administrative expenses during fiscal 2015. In addition,
the Pension Plan received a favorable determination letter, dated October 15, 2015, from the Internal Revenue Service.
This determination letter rules that the termination of the Pension Plan, as amended, does not affect its tax-qualified status.
The net impact of the Pension Plan termination, special lump-sum opportunity, settlement accounting and
remeasurement and regular plan experience, was an increase in pension liability of $3,062 and a decrease in other
comprehensive income of $6,503, before tax, in fiscal 2015.
In fiscal 2016, there was a final Pension Plan termination lump-sum opportunity offered to the remaining 2,300
active and terminated vested participants at the final Pension Plan termination distribution date. To effectuate the full plan
liquidation, lump-sum payments totaling approximately $18,100 were distributed in March 2016 to about 1,800
participants who elected to receive an immediate distribution of their benefit as part of the plan termination lump-sum
window. Benefits for the remaining plan population were transferred to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company
for an annuity purchase premium of $34,500, which was paid on March 28, 2016.
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Pension expense was $450 and $1,435 for the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015,
respectively, and $450 and $2,682 for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. There
were no pension liabilities recorded at October 29, 2016. Pension liabilities were $11,799 at October 31, 2015 and
recorded within accrued liabilities.
The Company maintains a defined contribution plan (the Savings Plan) for the benefit of substantially all
employees. Total Company contributions charged to employee benefit expenses for the Savings Plan were $2,774 and
$2,661 for the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively, and $6,161 and $6,173 for the 26
weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively.
20. Samsung Commercial Agreement

On June 4, 2014, NOOK Digital, LLC (NOOK Digital) (formerly NOOK Media Sub and barnesandnoble.com
llc), a wholly owned subsidiary of B&N Education as of such date and a subsidiary of Barnes & Noble, entered into a
commercial agreement (Agreement) with Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (Samsung) relating to tablets.
Pursuant to the Agreement, NOOK Digital, after good faith consultations with Samsung and subject to
Samsung’s agreement, selected Samsung tablet devices under development to be customized and co-branded by NOOK
Digital. Such devices are produced by Samsung. The co-branded NOOK® tablet devices are sold by NOOK Digital
through Barnes & Noble retail stores, www.barnesandnoble.com and www.nook.com.
Under the Agreement, NOOK Digital committed to purchase a minimum of 1,000,000 NOOK®-Samsung co-
branded devices from Samsung within 12 months after the launch of the initial co-branded device, which occurred on
August 20, 2014. The 12-month period was automatically extended by three months due to the quantity of sales of such
co-branded devices through December 31, 2014, and the period was further extended until June 30, 2016 by an
amendment executed by the parties on March 7, 2015.
NOOK Digital and Samsung have agreed to coordinate customer service for the co-branded NOOK® devices
and have both agreed to a license of intellectual property to promote and market the devices. Additionally, Samsung has
agreed to fund a marketing fund for the co-branded NOOK® devices at the initial launch and for the duration of the
Agreement.
The Agreement had a two-year term, with certain termination rights, including termination (i) by NOOK Digital
for a Samsung material default; (ii) by Samsung for a NOOK Digital material default; (iii) by NOOK Digital if Samsung
fails to meet its shipping and delivery obligations in any material respect on a timely basis; and (iv) by either party upon
insolvency or bankruptcy of the other party.
On May 17, 2016, NOOK Digital and Samsung amended the Agreement, pursuant to which NOOK Digital
agreed to a minimum purchase commitment during the first 12 months after launch of any co-branded NOOK® tablet
device of total devices with a total retail value equal to $10,000. The amended minimum purchase commitment replaces
all prior purchase commitments contained in the Agreement by NOOK Digital and Samsung.
21. Series J Preferred Stock

On August 18, 2011, the Company entered into an investment agreement between the Company and Liberty
GIC, Inc. (Liberty), pursuant to which the Company issued and sold to Liberty, and Liberty purchased, 204,000 shares of
the Company’s Series J Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share (Preferred Stock), for an aggregate purchase price of
$204,000 in a private placement exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. The shares of Preferred Stock
were convertible, at the option of the holders, into shares of Common Stock representing 16.6% of the Common Stock
outstanding as of August 29, 2011 (after giving pro forma effect to the issuance of the Preferred Stock) based on the initial
conversion rate. The initial conversion rate reflected an initial conversion price of $17.00 and was subject to adjustment in
certain circumstances. The initial dividend rate for the Preferred Stock was equal to 7.75% per annum of the initial
liquidation preference of the Preferred Stock paid quarterly and subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.
On April 8, 2014, Liberty sold the majority of its shares to qualified institutional buyers in reliance on Rule
144A under the Securities Act and had retained an approximate 10% stake of its initial investment. As a result, Liberty no
longer had the right to elect two preferred stock directors to the Company’s Board. Additionally, the consent rights and
pre-emptive rights, to which Liberty was previously entitled, ceased to apply.
On June 5, 2015, the Company entered into conversion agreements with five beneficial owners (Series J
Holders) of its Preferred Stock, pursuant to which each of the Series J Holders had agreed to convert (Conversion) shares
of Preferred Stock it beneficially owned into shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share
(Company Common Stock), and additionally received a cash payment from the Company in connection with the
Conversion.
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On July 9, 2015, the Company completed the Conversion. Pursuant to the terms of the Conversion Agreements,
the Series J Holders converted an aggregate of 103,995 shares of Preferred Stock into 6,117,342 shares of Company
Common Stock, and made an aggregate cash payment to the Series J Holders of $3,657 plus cash in lieu of fractional
shares in connection with the Conversion.
The number of shares of Company Common Stock issued was determined based on a conversion ratio of
58.8235 shares of Company Common Stock per share of Preferred Stock converted, which was the conversion rate in the
Certificate of the Designations with respect to the Preferred Stock, dated as of August 18, 2011.
On July 10, 2015, the Company gave notice of its exercise of the right to force conversion of all outstanding
shares of its Senior Convertible Redeemable Series J Preferred Stock into Company Common Stock pursuant to Section 9
of the Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Relative Participating, Optional and Other Special Rights and
Qualifications, Limitations and Restrictions of Series J Preferred Stock, dated as of August 18, 2011 (the Forced
Conversion). The effective date of the Forced Conversion was July 24, 2015. On the date of the Forced Conversion, each
share of Series J Preferred Stock was automatically converted into 59.8727 shares of Company Common Stock, which
included shares of Company Common Stock reflecting accrued and unpaid dividends on Series J Preferred Stock. Each
holder of Series J Preferred Stock received whole shares of Company Common Stock and a cash amount in lieu of
fractional shares of Company Common Stock.
As a result of the transactions described above, all shares of Series J Preferred Stock were retired by the
Company and are no longer outstanding.
22. Shareholders’ Equity

On October 20, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program of up to
$50,000 of its common shares. Stock repurchases under this program may be made through open market and privately
negotiated transactions from time to time and in such amounts as management deems appropriate. The repurchase
program has no expiration date and may be suspended or discontinued at any time. The Company’s repurchase plan is
intended to comply with the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended. During the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016, the Company repurchased 878,195 shares at a cost of
$10,045 and 1,708,778 shares at a cost of $19,788, respectively, under this plan. The Company had remaining capacity of
approximately $3,494 under this program as of October 29, 2016. As of October 29, 2016, the Company has repurchased
39,741,262 shares at a cost of approximately $1,084,812 since the inception of the Company’s stock repurchase programs.
The repurchased shares are held in treasury.
23. Legal Proceedings

The Company is involved in a variety of claims, suits, investigations and proceedings that arise from time to
time in the ordinary course of its business, including actions with respect to contracts, intellectual property, taxation,
employment, benefits, securities, personal injuries and other matters. The results of these proceedings in the ordinary
course of business are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or
results of operations.
The Company records a liability when it believes that it is both probable that a liability will be incurred, and the
amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company evaluates, at least quarterly, developments in its legal matters
that could affect the amount of liability that has been previously accrued and makes adjustments as appropriate.
Significant judgment is required to determine both probability and the estimated amount of a loss or potential loss. The
Company may be unable to reasonably estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for a particular legal
contingency for various reasons, including, among others: (i) if the damages sought are indeterminate; (ii) if proceedings
are in the early stages; (iii) if there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending proceedings (including motions and
appeals); (iv) if there is uncertainty as to the likelihood of settlement and the outcome of any negotiations with respect
thereto; (v) if there are significant factual issues to be determined or resolved; (vi) if the proceedings involve a large
number of parties; (vii) if relevant law is unsettled or novel or untested legal theories are presented; or (viii) if the
proceedings are taking place in jurisdictions where the laws are complex or unclear. In such instances, there is
considerable uncertainty regarding the ultimate resolution of such matters, including a possible eventual loss, if any.
Legal matters are inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties, some of which are beyond the
Company’s control. As such, there can be no assurance that the final outcome of these matters will not materially and
adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
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Except as otherwise described below with respect to the Adrea LLC (Adrea) matter, the Company has
determined that a loss is reasonably possible with respect to the matters described below. Based on its current knowledge,
the Company has determined that the amount of loss or range of loss that is reasonably possible (or, in the case of Adrea,
probable), including any reasonably possible (or, in the case of Adrea, probable) losses in excess of amounts already
accrued, is not estimable.
The following is a discussion of the material legal matters involving the Company.
PIN Pad Litigation
As previously disclosed, the Company discovered that PIN pads in certain of its stores had been tampered with
to allow criminal access to card data and PIN numbers on credit and debit cards swiped through the terminals. Following
public disclosure of this matter on October 24, 2012, the Company was served with four putative class action complaints
(three in federal district court in the Northern District of Illinois and one in the Northern District of California), each of
which alleged on behalf of national and other classes of customers who swiped credit and debit cards in Barnes & Noble
Retail stores common law claims such as negligence, breach of contract and invasion of privacy, as well as statutory
claims such as violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, state data breach notification statutes, and state unfair and
deceptive practices statutes. The actions sought various forms of relief including damages, injunctive or equitable relief,
multiple or punitive damages, attorneys’ fees, costs, and interest. All four cases were transferred and/or assigned to a
single judge in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, and a single consolidated amended
complaint was filed. The Company filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint in its entirety, and in
September 2013, the Court granted the motion to dismiss without prejudice. The Plaintiffs then filed an amended
complaint, and the Company filed a second motion to dismiss. On October 3, 2016, the Court granted the second motion
to dismiss, and dismissed the case without prejudice; in doing so, the Court permitted plaintiffs to file a second amended
complaint by October 31, 2016. On October 31, 2016, the plaintiffs filed a second amended complaint. The Court set the
following schedule; motion to dismiss brief due on November 30, 2016, opposition brief due January 6, 2017, and reply
brief due January 31, 2017. A status hearing is scheduled for March 14, 2017.
Cassandra Carag individually and on behalf of others similarly situated v. Barnes & Noble, Inc., Barnes &
Noble Booksellers, Inc. and DOES 1 through 100 inclusive
On November 27, 2013, former Associate Store Manager Cassandra Carag (Carag) brought suit in Sacramento
County Superior Court, asserting claims on behalf of herself and all other hourly (non-exempt) Barnes & Noble
employees in California in the preceding four years for unpaid regular and overtime wages based on alleged off-the-clock
work, penalties and pay based on missed meal and rest breaks, and for improper wage statements, payroll records, and
untimely pay at separation as a result of the alleged pay errors during employment. Via the complaint, Carag seeks to
recover unpaid wages and statutory penalties for all hourly Barnes & Noble employees within California from
November 27, 2009 to present. On February 13, 2014, the Company filed an Answer in the state court and concurrently
requested removal of the action to federal court. On May 30, 2014, the federal court granted Plaintiff’s motion to remand
the case to state court and denied Plaintiff’s motion to strike portions of the Answer to the Complaint (referring the latter
motion to the lower court for future consideration).
Adrea LLC v. Barnes & Noble, Inc., barnesandnoble.com llc and NOOK Media LLC
With respect to the Adrea matter described herein, the Company has determined, based on its current
knowledge, that a loss is probable. On June 14, 2013, Adrea filed a complaint against Barnes & Noble, Inc., NOOK
Digital, LLC (formerly barnesandnoble.com llc) and B&N Education, LLC (formerly NOOK Media LLC) (collectively,
B&N) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York alleging that various B&N NOOK
products and related online services infringe U.S. Patent Nos. 7,298,851 (‘851 patent), 7,299,501 (‘501 patent) and
7,620,703 (‘703 patent). B&N filed its Answer on August 9, 2013, denying infringement and asserting several affirmative
defenses. At the same time, B&N filed counterclaims seeking declaratory judgments of non-infringement and invalidity
with respect to each of the patents-in-suit. On July 1, 2014, the Court issued a decision granting partial summary judgment
in B&N’s favor, and in particular granting B&N’s motion to dismiss one of Adrea’s infringement claims, and granting
B&N’s motion to limit any damages award with respect to another of Adrea’s infringement claims.
Beginning October 7, 2014, through and including October 22, 2014, the case was tried to a jury in the Southern
District of New York. The jury returned its verdict on October 27, 2014. The jury found no infringement with respect to
the ‘851 patent, and infringement with respect to the ‘501 and ‘703 patents. It awarded damages in the amount of $1,330.
The jury further found no willful infringement with respect to any patent.
On July 24, 2015, the Court granted B&N’s post-trial application to invalidate one of the two patents (the ‘501
patent) the jury found to have been infringed. On September 28, 2015, the Court heard post-trial motions on the jury’s
infringement
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and validity determinations, and on February 24, 2016, it issued a decision upholding the jury’s determination of
infringement and validity with respect to the ‘703 patent. Since the original damages award was a total award for
infringement of both patents, the Court held a new trial to determine damages for infringement of the ‘703 patent, which
trial concluded on July 15, 2016. In a post-trial brief, Adrea asked the Court to award damages of $1,059 for infringement
of the ‘703 patent alone (calculated by applying a 20.2 cent per unit royalty rate to accused sales for the period November
2009, when the ‘703 patent first issued, through June 30, 2014), and requested enhanced damages. B&N responded to
Adrea’s damages claims, asking the Court to award damages of $105 for infringement of the ‘703 patent (calculated by
applying a 0.2 cent per unit royalty rate to accused sales for the period November 2009 through the date of the first trial
verdict, October 22, 2014), and further responded that no enhanced damages were available as a matter of law. Adrea filed
its replies to B&N’s submissions on September 8, 2016.
Café Manager Class Actions
Two former Café Managers have filed separate actions alleging similar claims of entitlement to unpaid
compensation for overtime. In each action, the plaintiff seeks to represent a class of allegedly similarly situated employees
who performed the same position (Café Manager). Specifically, Christine Hartpence filed a complaint against Barnes &
Noble, Inc. (Barnes & Noble) in Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas on May 26, 2015 (Case No.: 160503426),
alleging that she is entitled to unpaid compensation for overtime under Pennsylvania law and seeking to represent a class
of allegedly similarly situated employees who performed the same position (Café Manager). On July 14, 2016,
Ms. Hartpence amended her complaint to assert a purported collective action for alleged unpaid overtime compensation
under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), by which she sought to act as a class representative for similarly
situated Café Managers throughout the United States. On July 27, 2016, Barnes & Noble removed the case to the U.S.
District Court of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (Case No.: 16-4034). Ms. Hartpence then voluntarily dismissed her
complaint and subsequently re-filed a similar complaint in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas (Case No.:
161003213), where it is currently pending. The re-filed complaint alleges only claims of unpaid overtime under
Pennsylvania law and alleges class claims under Pennsylvania law that are limited to current and former Café Managers
within Pennsylvania.
On September 20, 2016, Kelly Brown filed a complaint against Barnes & Noble in the U.S. District Court for the
Southern District of New York (Case No.: 16-7333) in which she also alleges that she is entitled to unpaid compensation
under the FLSA and Illinois law. Ms. Brown seeks to represent a national class of all similarly situated Café Managers
under the FLSA, as well as an Illinois-based class under Illinois law. On November 9, 2016, Ms. Brown filed an amended
complaint to add an additional plaintiff named Tiffany Stewart, who is a former Café Manager who also alleges unpaid
overtime compensation in violation of New York law and seeks to represent a class of similarly situated New York-based
Café Managers under New York law.
24. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740) – Intra- Entity Transfers of Assets
Other Than Inventory (ASU 2016-16). This standard requires that an entity should recognize the income tax consequences
of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. Consequently, the amendments in this
standard eliminate the exception for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory. The amendments in this
standard do not include new disclosure requirements; however, existing disclosure requirements might be applicable. ASU
2016-16 is effective for public companies for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including
interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact
of this standard on its consolidated financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) – Classification of
Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (ASU 2016-15). The amendments in this update clarifies the classification of
certain cash receipts and cash payments in the statement of cash flows, including debt prepayment or extinguishment
costs, settlement of contingent consideration arising from a business combination, insurance settlement proceeds, and
distributions from certain equity method investees. The new standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods
within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently
evaluating the potential impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718) –
Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (ASU 2016-09). ASU 2016-09 includes provisions to
simplify certain aspects related to the accounting for share-based awards and the related financial statement presentation.
This ASU includes a requirement that the tax effect related to the settlement of share-based awards be recorded in income
tax benefit or expense in the statements of earnings. This change is required to be adopted prospectively in the period of
adoption. In addition, the ASU modifies the classification of certain share-based payment activities within the statements
of cash flows and these changes are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented, or in certain cases
prospectively, beginning in the period of adoption. ASU 2016-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after
December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is
currently evaluating the potential impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements.
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In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (ASU 2016-02), in order to increase
transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet
for those leases classified as operating leases under previous Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. ASU 2016-02
requires that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset
representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. ASU 2016-02 requires expanded
disclosures about the nature and terms of lease agreements and is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after
December 15, 2018, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is
currently evaluating the potential impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements, but expects that it will
result in a significant increase to its long-term assets and liabilities.
In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (ASU 2015-11),
modifying the accounting for inventory. Under ASU 2015-11, the measurement principle for inventory will change from
lower of cost or market value to lower of cost and net realizable value. ASU 2015-11 defines net realizable value as the
estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and
transportation. ASU 2015-11 is applicable to inventory that is accounted for under the first-in, first-out method and is
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with
early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of this standard on its consolidated
financial statements.
In June 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Improvements. The amendments in
this update cover a wide range of Topics in the Codification. The amendments in this update represent changes to make
minor corrections or minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current
accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. This update is the final version of Proposed
Accounting Standards Update 2014-240, Technical Corrections and Improvements, which has been deleted. The adoption
did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs (ASU 2015-
03). ASU 2015-03 simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs by requiring that debt issuance costs related to a
recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt
liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not
affected by ASU 2015-03. In August 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-15, Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of
Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements (ASU 2015-15). ASU 2015-15 clarifies the
presentation and measuring of debt issuance costs incurred in connection with line-of-credit arrangements given the lack
of guidance on this topic in ASU 2015-03. For line-of-credit arrangements, an entity can continue to present debt issuance
costs as an asset and amortize the deferred debt issuance costs ratably over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement.
ASU 2015-03, as amended, is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim
periods within such annual reporting periods with early adoption permitted. ASU 2015-03 is to be retrospectively adopted
to each prior reporting period presented. The Company adopted ASU 2015-03 in the first quarter ended July 30, 2016. The
Company made a policy election to continue recording the debt issuance costs as an asset, as allowed for revolving credit
agreements. As the Company only has a line-of-credit arrangement, the adoption of this ASU did not result in a change in
the Company’s accounting for debt issuance costs related to such line of credit and had no impact on the Company’s
consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09. The standard provides companies with a single model for use in
accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes current revenue recognition guidance,
including industry-specific revenue guidance. The core principle of the model is to recognize revenue when control of the
goods or services transfers to the customer, as opposed to recognizing revenue when the risks and rewards transfer to the
customer under the existing revenue guidance. ASU 2014-09, as amended by ASU 2015-14, ASU 2016-08, ASU 2016-10
and ASU 2016-12, is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods
within that reporting period. Earlier application is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15,
2016. The guidance permits companies to either apply the requirements retrospectively to all prior periods presented, or
apply the requirements in the year of adoption, through a cumulative adjustment. The Company has not yet selected a
transition method nor has it determined the impact of adoption on its consolidated financial statements.
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Item 2: Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Separation of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.
On February 26, 2015, Barnes & Noble announced plans for the legal and structural separation of Barnes &
Noble Education, Inc. (Barnes & Noble Education or B&N Education) (formerly known as NOOK Media Inc.) from
Barnes & Noble into an independent public company (the Spin-Off).
On July 14, 2015, the Barnes & Noble board of directors (the Board) approved the final distribution ratio and
declared a pro rata dividend of the outstanding shares of B&N Education common stock, which resulted in the complete
legal and structural separation of the two companies. The distribution was subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain
conditions as set forth in B&N Education’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, which was filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 26, 2015 and was amended on April 29, 2015, June 4, 2015, June 29,
2015, July 13, 2015, July 14, 2015 and July 15, 2015.
On August 2, 2015, Barnes & Noble completed the Spin-Off of Barnes & Noble Education and distributed, on a
pro rata basis, all of the shares of B&N Education common stock to the Company’s stockholders of record as of July 27,
2015. These Barnes & Noble stockholders of record as of July 27, 2015 received a distribution of 0.632 shares of B&N
Education common stock for each share of Barnes & Noble common stock held as of the record date. Immediately
following the completion of the Spin-Off, the Company’s stockholders owned 100% of the outstanding shares of common
stock of B&N Education. Following the Spin-Off, B&N Education operates as an independent public company and as the
parent of Barnes & Noble College, trading on New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “BNED”.
In connection with the separation of B&N Education, the Company and B&N Education entered into a
Separation and Distribution Agreement on July 14, 2015 and several other ancillary agreements on August 2, 2015. These
agreements govern the relationship between the Company and B&N Education after the separation and allocate between
the Company and B&N Education various assets, liabilities, rights and obligations following the separation, including
employee benefits, intellectual property, information technology, insurance and tax-related assets and liabilities. The
agreements also describe the Company’s future commitments to provide B&N Education with certain transition services.
This Spin-Off is expected to be a non-taxable event for Barnes & Noble and its shareholders, and Barnes &
Noble’s U.S. shareholders (other than those subject to special rules) generally will not recognize gain or loss as a result of
the distribution of B&N Education shares.
History of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

On September 30, 2009, Barnes & Noble acquired Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, LLC (B&N College)
from Leonard and Louise Riggio. From that date until October 4, 2012, B&N College was wholly owned by Barnes &
Noble Booksellers, Inc. B&N Education was initially incorporated under the name NOOK Media Inc. in July 2012 to hold
Barnes & Noble’s B&N College and NOOK digital businesses. On October 4, 2012, Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft)
acquired a 17.6% non-controlling preferred membership interest in B&N Education’s subsidiary B&N Education, LLC
(formerly NOOK Media LLC) (the LLC), and through B&N Education, Barnes & Noble maintained an 82.4% controlling
interest of the B&N College and NOOK digital businesses.
On January 22, 2013, Pearson Education, Inc. (Pearson) acquired a 5% non-controlling preferred membership
interest in the LLC, entered into a commercial agreement with the LLC relating to the B&N College business and received
warrants to purchase an additional preferred membership interest in the LLC.
On December 4, 2014, B&N Education re-acquired Microsoft’s interest in the LLC in exchange for cash and
common stock of Barnes & Noble and the Microsoft commercial agreement was terminated effective as of such date. On
December 22, 2014, B&N Education also re-acquired Pearson’s interest in the LLC and certain related warrants
previously issued to Pearson. In connection with these transactions, Barnes & Noble entered into contingent payment
agreements with Microsoft and Pearson providing for additional payments upon the occurrence of certain events,
including upon a sale of the NOOK digital business. As a result of these transactions, Barnes & Noble owned, prior to the
Spin-Off, 100% of B&N Education.
On May 1, 2015, B&N Education distributed to Barnes & Noble all of the membership interests in B&N
Education’s NOOK digital business. As a result, B&N Education ceased to own any interest in the NOOK digital
business, which remains a wholly owned subsidiary of Barnes & Noble.
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Discontinued Operations of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

The Company has recognized the separation of B&N Education in accordance with Accounting Standards
Codification (ASC) 205-20, Discontinued Operations. As such, the historical results of Barnes & Noble Education have
been adjusted to include separation-related costs and exclude corporate allocations with B&N Retail and have been
classified as discontinued operations.
Discontinued operations in the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015 primarily consisted of investment banking fees
(as it directly related to the Spin-Off) and separation-related costs.
Discontinued operations in the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015 primarily consisted of pre-spin B&N
Education results, investment banking fees (as it directly related to the Spin-Off), separation-related costs and excluded
corporate allocation adjustments with B&N Retail.
Liquidity and Capital Resources

The primary sources of Barnes & Noble’s cash are net cash flows from operating activities, funds available
under its credit facility and short-term vendor financing.
Credit Facility
Prior to August 3, 2015, the Company was party to an amended and restated credit facility with Bank of
America, N.A., as administrative agent, collateral agent and swing line lender, and other lenders, dated as of April 29,
2011 (as amended and modified through August 3, 2015, the Prior Credit Facility), consisting of up to $1.0 billion in
aggregate commitments under a five-year asset-backed revolving credit facility, which was scheduled to expire on
April 29, 2016.
On August 3, 2015, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into a credit agreement (New Credit
Agreement) with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, collateral agent and swing line lender, and the other
lenders from time to time party thereto, under which the lenders committed to provide a five-year asset-backed revolving
credit facility in an aggregate committed principal amount of up to $700.0 million (Revolving Credit Facility). On
September 30, 2016, the Company amended the New Credit Agreement to provide for a new “first-in, last-out” revolving
credit facility (the FILO Credit Facility and, together with the Revolving Credit Facility, the New Credit Facility) in an
aggregate principal amount of up to $50.0 million, which supplements availability under the Revolving Credit Facility.
The Company generally must draw down the FILO Credit Facility before making any borrowings under the Revolving
Credit Facility.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and
SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc. are the joint lead arrangers for the New Credit Facility. The New Credit Facility
replaced the Prior Credit Facility. Proceeds from the New Credit Facility are used for general corporate purposes,
including seasonal working capital needs.
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are permitted to borrow under the New Credit Facility. The New
Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the inventory, accounts receivable and related assets of the borrowers
under the New Credit Facility (collectively, the Loan Parties), but excluding the equity interests in the Company and its
subsidiaries, intellectual property, equipment and certain other property. Borrowings under the New Credit Facility are
limited to a specified percentage of eligible collateral. The Company has the option to request an increase in commitments
under the New Credit Facility of up to $250.0 million, subject to certain restrictions.
Interest under the Revolving Credit Facility accrues, at the election of the Company, at a LIBOR or alternate
base rate, plus, in each case, an applicable interest rate margin, which is determined by reference to the level of excess
availability under the Revolving Credit Facility. Through the end of the fiscal quarter during which the closing of the
Revolving Credit Facility occurred, loans under the Revolving Credit Facility bore interest at LIBOR plus 1.750% per
annum, in the case of LIBOR borrowings, or at the alternate base rate plus 0.750% per annum, in the alternative, and
thereafter the interest rate began to fluctuate between LIBOR plus 2.000% per annum and LIBOR plus 1.500% per annum
(or between the alternate base rate plus 1.000% per annum and the alternate base rate plus 0.500% per annum), based upon
the average daily availability under the Revolving Credit Facility for the immediately preceding fiscal quarter. Interest
under the FILO Credit Facility accrues, at the election of the Company, at a LIBOR or alternate base rate, plus, in each
case, an applicable interest rate margin, which is also determined by reference to the level of excess availability under the
Revolving Credit Facility. Loans under the FILO Credit Facility bear interest at 1.000% per annum more than loans under
the Revolving Credit Facility.
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The New Credit Agreement contains customary negative covenants, which limit the Company’s ability to incur
additional indebtedness, create liens, make investments, make restricted payments or specified payments and merge or
acquire assets, among other things. In addition, if excess availability under the New Credit Facility were to fall below
certain specified levels, certain additional covenants (including fixed charge coverage ratio requirements) would be
triggered, and the lenders would assume dominion and control over the Loan Parties’ cash.
The New Credit Agreement contains customary events of default, including payment defaults, material breaches
of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, default on other material indebtedness, customary ERISA events of
default, bankruptcy and insolvency, material judgments, invalidity of liens on collateral, change of control or cessation of
business. The New Credit Agreement also contains customary affirmative covenants and representations and warranties.
The Company wrote off $0.5 million of deferred financing fees related to the Prior Credit Facility during the
second quarter of fiscal 2016 and the remaining unamortized deferred financing fees of $3.5 million were deferred and are
being amortized over the five-year term of the New Credit Facility. The Company also incurred $5.7 million of fees to
secure the New Credit Facility, which are being amortized over the five-year term accordingly. During the second quarter
of 2017, the Company incurred $0.5 million of fees to secure the FILO Credit Facility, which are being amortized over the
same term as the New Credit Facility.
The Company had $191.4 million and $192.0 million of outstanding debt under the New Credit Facility as of
October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. The Company had $46.9 million and $48.3 million of outstanding
letters of credit under its New Credit Facility as of October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively.
Cash Flows
The Company’s cash and cash equivalents were $11.4 million as of October 29, 2016, compared with $13.4
million as of October 31, 2015. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $2.0 million versus the prior year period
were due to changes in working capital and cash flows as outlined below.
Net cash flows used in operating activities for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 were $51.8 million, as
compared to net cash flows used in operating activities of $43.7 million for the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. The
unfavorable year-over-year comparison was primarily attributable to changes in working capital.
Net cash flows used in investing activities for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 were $51.7 million, as
compared to net cash flows used in investing activities of $50.7 million for the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. The
Company’s investing activities primarily consisted of capital expenditures for the maintenance of existing stores,
merchandising initiatives and enhancements to systems and the website.
Net cash flows provided by financing activities for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 were $101.0 million,
as compared to net cash flows provided by financing activities of $147.6 million for the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015.
The Company’s financing activities during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 consisted primarily of net proceeds from
the credit facility, offset by common dividends and share repurchases. Financing activities during the 26 weeks ended
October 31, 2015 consisted primarily of net proceeds from the credit facility, offset by common and preferred dividends,
cash settlement of an equity award, fees incurred to enter into the New Credit Facility and an inducement fee on the
conversion of preferred stock.
Since July 2015, the Company has returned $114.7 million in cash to its shareholders through share repurchases
and dividends.
Additional year-over-year balance sheet changes include the following:

• Receivables, net decreased $6.6 million, or 8.0%, to $75.7 million as of October 29, 2016, compared
to $82.4 million as of October 31, 2015, primarily due to a tax receivable.
• Merchandise inventories, net decreased $1.1 million, or 0.1%, to $1.219 billion as of October 29,
2016, compared to $1.220 billion as of October 31, 2015. NOOK inventories decreased $10.4
million, or 53.5%, on lower planned sales volume. Retail inventories increased $9.4 million, or 0.8%,
compared to the prior year.
• Prepaid expenses and other current assets decreased $19.2 million, or 12.9%, to $129.4 million as of
October 29, 2016, compared to $148.6 million as of October 31, 2015, primarily due to cost
reductions.
• Property and equipment, net decreased $34.5 million, or 10.7%, to $288.7 million as of October 29,
2016, compared to $323.2 million as of October 31, 2015, as depreciation outpaced capital
expenditures.
• Intangible assets, net decreased $4.5 million, or 1.4%, to $310.5 million as of October 29, 2016,
compared to $315.0 million as of October 31, 2015, on additional amortization and a $3.8 million
impairment of a publishing contract during fiscal 2016.
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• Other non-current assets decreased $0.4 million, or 3.1%, to $11.9 million as of October 29, 2016,
compared to $12.3 million as of October 31, 2015.
• Accounts payable decreased $13.2 million, or 1.8%, to $717.2 million as of October 29, 2016,
compared to $730.4 million as of October 31, 2015. Accounts payable represented 58.8% and 59.9%
of merchandise inventories as of October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. This ratio is
subject to changes in product mix and the timing of purchases, payments and returns.
• Accrued liabilities decreased $14.2 million, or 4.4%, to $311.2 million as of October 29, 2016,
compared to $325.4 million as of October 31, 2015. Accrued liabilities include the eBook settlement,
deferred income, compensation, occupancy related, legal and other selling and administrative
miscellaneous accruals.
• Gift card liabilities increased $13.6 million, or 4.1%, to $344.0 million as of October 29, 2016,
compared to $330.5 million as of October 31, 2015. This increase was due to the activation of gift
cards in connection with the eBook settlement. The Company estimates the portion of the gift card
liability for which the likelihood of redemption is remote based upon the Company’s historical
redemption patterns. The Company recognized gift card breakage of $4.8 million and $5.2 million
during the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively, and $9.8 million
and $10.6 million during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively.
Additional breakage may be required if gift card redemptions continue to run lower than historical
patterns.
• Long-term deferred taxes increased $38.5 million, or 243.7%, to $54.3 million as of October 29,
2016, compared to $15.8 million as of October 31, 2015 primarily due to timing differences and a
change in valuation allowances.
• Other long-term liabilities decreased $42.6 million, or 27.8%, to $110.8 million as of October 29,
2016, compared to $153.4 million as of October 31, 2015, due to lower tax reserves and lower
deferred rent.
The Company has arrangements with third-party manufacturers to produce certain NOOK® products. These
manufacturers procure and assemble unfinished parts and components from third-party suppliers based on forecasts
provided by the Company. Given production lead times, commitments are generally made far in advance of finished
product delivery. Based on current purchase commitments and product development plans, the Company did not record
any provision for purchase commitments. Future charges may be required based on changes in forecasted sales or strategic
direction.
EBook Settlement
The Company provided credits to eligible customers resulting from the settlement reached with Apple Inc.
(Apple) in an antitrust lawsuit filed by various State Attorneys General and private class plaintiffs regarding the price of
digital books. The Company’s customers were entitled to $95.7 million in total credits as a result of the settlement, which
is funded by Apple. If a customer’s credit is not used to make a purchase within one year, the entire credit will expire. The
Company recorded estimated redemptions of $56.5 million during fiscal 2016 as a receivable from Apple settlement fund
and a liability to its customers with a deadline of June 2017 for the activation of all credits. As of October 29, 2016, the
Company’s customers had activated $50.6 million in credits, of which $39.8 million were redeemed. Total receivables
from the Apple settlement fund were $7.6 million as of October 29, 2016.
Samsung Agreement
On June 4, 2014, NOOK Digital, LLC (NOOK Digital) (formerly NOOK Media Sub and barnesandnoble.com
llc), a wholly owned subsidiary of B&N Education as of such date and a subsidiary of Barnes & Noble, entered into a
commercial agreement (Agreement) with Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (Samsung) relating to tablets.
Pursuant to the Agreement, NOOK Digital, after good faith consultations with Samsung and subject to
Samsung’s agreement, selected Samsung tablet devices under development to be customized and co-branded by NOOK
Digital. Such devices are produced by Samsung. The co-branded NOOK® tablet devices are sold by NOOK Digital
through Barnes & Noble retail stores, www.barnesandnoble.com and www.nook.com.
Under the Agreement, NOOK Digital committed to purchase a minimum of 1,000,000 NOOK®-Samsung co-
branded devices from Samsung within 12 months after the launch of the initial co-branded device, which occurred on
August 20, 2014. The 12-month period was automatically extended by three months due to the quantity of sales of such
co-branded devices through December 31, 2014, and the period was further extended until June 30, 2016 by an
amendment executed by the parties on March 7, 2015.
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NOOK Digital and Samsung have agreed to coordinate customer service for the co-branded NOOK® devices
and have both agreed to a license of intellectual property to promote and market the devices. Additionally, Samsung has
agreed to fund a marketing fund for the co-branded NOOK® devices at the initial launch and for the duration of the
Agreement.
The Agreement had a two-year term, with certain termination rights, including termination (i) by NOOK Digital
for a Samsung material default; (ii) by Samsung for a NOOK Digital material default; (iii) by NOOK Digital if Samsung
fails to meet its shipping and delivery obligations in any material respect on a timely basis; and (iv) by either party upon
insolvency or bankruptcy of the other party.
On May 17, 2016, NOOK Digital and Samsung amended the Agreement, pursuant to which NOOK Digital
agreed to a minimum purchase commitment during the first 12 months after launch of any co-branded NOOK® tablet
device of total devices with a total retail value equal to $10.0 million. The amended minimum purchase commitment
replaces all prior purchase commitments contained in the Agreement by NOOK Digital and Samsung.
Series J Preferred Stock

On August 18, 2011, the Company entered into an investment agreement between the Company and Liberty
GIC, Inc. (Liberty), pursuant to which the Company issued and sold to Liberty, and Liberty purchased, 204,000 shares of
the Company’s Series J Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share (Preferred Stock), for an aggregate purchase price of
$204.0 million in a private placement exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. The shares of Preferred
Stock were convertible, at the option of the holders, into shares of Common Stock representing 16.6% of the Common
Stock outstanding as of August 29, 2011 (after giving pro forma effect to the issuance of the Preferred Stock) based on the
initial conversion rate. The initial conversion rate reflected an initial conversion price of $17.00 and was subject to
adjustment in certain circumstances. The initial dividend rate for the Preferred Stock was equal to 7.75% per annum of the
initial liquidation preference of the Preferred Stock paid quarterly and subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.
On April 8, 2014, Liberty sold the majority of its shares to qualified institutional buyers in reliance on Rule
144A under the Securities Act and had retained an approximate 10% stake of its initial investment. As a result, Liberty no
longer had the right to elect two preferred stock directors to the Company’s Board. Additionally, the consent rights and
pre-emptive rights, to which Liberty was previously entitled, ceased to apply.
On June 5, 2015, the Company entered into conversion agreements with five beneficial owners (Series J
Holders) of its Preferred Stock, pursuant to which each of the Series J Holders had agreed to convert (Conversion) shares
of Preferred Stock it beneficially owned into shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share
(Company Common Stock), and additionally received a cash payment from the Company in connection with the
Conversion.
On July 9, 2015, the Company completed the Conversion. Pursuant to the terms of the Conversion Agreements,
the Series J Holders converted an aggregate of 103,995 shares of Preferred Stock into 6,117,342 shares of Company
Common Stock, and made an aggregate cash payment to the Series J Holders of $3.7 million plus cash in lieu of fractional
shares in connection with the Conversion.
On July 10, 2015, the Company gave notice of its exercise of the right to force conversion of all outstanding
shares of its Senior Convertible Redeemable Series J Preferred Stock into Company Common Stock pursuant to Section 9
of the Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Relative Participating, Optional and Other Special Rights and
Qualifications, Limitations and Restrictions of Series J Preferred Stock, dated as of August 18, 2011 (the Forced
Conversion). The effective date of the Forced Conversion was July 24, 2015. On the date of the Forced Conversion, each
share of Series J Preferred Stock was automatically converted into 59.8727 shares of Company Common Stock, which
included shares of Company Common Stock reflecting accrued and unpaid dividends on Series J Preferred Stock. Each
holder of Series J Preferred Stock received whole shares of Company Common Stock and a cash amount in lieu of
fractional shares of Company Common Stock.
As a result of the transactions described above, all shares of Series J Preferred Stock were retired by the
Company and are no longer outstanding.
Based upon the Company’s current operating levels and capital expenditures for fiscal 2017, management
believes cash and cash equivalents on hand, funds available under its credit facility and short-term vendor financing will
be sufficient to meet the Company’s normal working capital and debt service requirements for at least the next 12 months.
The Company regularly evaluates its capital structure and conditions in the financing markets to ensure it maintains
adequate flexibility to successfully execute its business plan.
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Segments
The Company identifies its operating segments based on the way the business is managed (focusing on the
financial information distributed) and the manner in which the chief operating decision maker interacts with other
members of management and makes decisions on the allocation of resources. The Company’s two operating segments are
B&N Retail and NOOK.
Seasonality
The B&N Retail business, like that of many retailers, is seasonal, with the major portion of sales and operating
income realized during its third fiscal quarter, which includes the holiday selling season.
The NOOK business, like that of many technology companies, is impacted by the launch of new products and
the promotional efforts to support those new products, as well as the traditional retail holiday selling seasonality.
Business Overview
In recent years, Barnes & Noble has experienced declining sales trends due to lower comparable store sales,
decreased online and digital sales, and store closures. The Company also experienced expense deleverage as a result of the
declining sales trends. To combat these trends, the Company has implemented a number of merchandising initiatives to
improve traffic and conversion. These initiatives include increasing the size and scope of its in-store events, which now
include nationwide campaigns, such as Get Pop-Cultured and Maker Faire that increase traffic and sales and further
reinforce Barnes & Noble as a community center. The Company is also improving the navigation and discovery of titles
that takes place in its stores to make books easier to find amongst its vast selection, which it believes will improve
performance.
Since launching its new website in June 2015, the Company has implemented a number of website fixes to
address post-launch issues that reduced website traffic and conversion, as well as to improve the overall user experience.
BN.com is an important component of the Company’s omni-channel strategy, and it believes that in the long term, the new
platform will enable it to be more competitive in the marketplace.
Through its omni-channel offering, the Company believes that it is well positioned to improve results and is
focused on executing four key objectives to achieve success, including: significantly reducing NOOK losses; growing
online and bookstore sales; reducing B&N Retail’s cost structure; and growing its Membership program.
The Company has taken a number of actions that will help further reduce NOOK losses, including the exit of its
Apps and Video businesses, as well as the exit of the U.K. eBook market. Additionally, the Company outsourced certain
NOOK functions, including cloud management and development support for NOOK® software, which enabled it to close
its Santa Clara, CA and Taipei offices. The Company continues to bring new co-branded devices to market through its
partnership with Samsung.
To grow online and bookstore sales, the Company will utilize the strong Barnes & Noble brand and retail
footprint to attract customers to its omni-channel offerings. The Company has created individual bookstore social media
accounts, which enable its booksellers to communicate directly with customers at the local level to inform them of all the
great events and merchandise available at their local Barnes & Noble stores. The Company is also focused on increasing
traffic through store events, and conversion through improved navigation and discovery throughout the store, including a
customer friendly and more intuitive organization of books and improved signage for easier browsing within and across
sections.
To reduce B&N Retail’s cost structure, the Company plans to increase productivity, streamline back office
operations and eliminate non-productive spend.
The Company’s Membership program provides the Company with valuable data and insights into its customer
base, enabling the Company to have deeper relationships and more meaningful communications with its Members. The
Company plans to leverage its unique assets to increase the appeal of the program and the loyalty of its Members.
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Results of Operations
The following tables summarize the Company’s results of operations for the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016
compared with the 13 and 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015.
Sales

October 29, % of October 31, % of October 29, % of October 31, % of
Dollars in thousands 2016 Total 2015 Total 2016 Total 2015 Total
B&N Retail $830,719 96.8% $860,705 96.2% $1,712,432 96.6% $1,799,703 96.1%
NOOK 35,042 4.1% 43,496 4.9% 76,090 4.3% 97,831 5.2%
Elimination (7,213) (0.8)% (9,547) (1.1)% (16,092) (0.9)% (24,321) (1.3)%
Total Sales $858,548 100.0% $894,654 100.0% $1,772,430 100.0% $1,873,213 100.0%
During the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016, the Company’s sales decreased $36.1 million, or 4.0%, to $858.5 million
from $894.7 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015. The changes by segment are as follows:
• B&N Retail sales for the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 decreased $30.0 million, or 3.5%, to
$830.7 million from $860.7 million during the same period one year ago, and accounted for 96.8% of
total Company sales. Comparable store sales decreased $23.7 million, or 3.2%, as compared to the
prior year. Closed stores decreased sales by $11.0 million. B&N Retail also includes third-party sales
of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., which decreased by $3.3 million, or 23.1%, versus the prior year on
lower coloring book sales. Online sales increased $7.8 million, or 12.5%, versus the prior year period
on benefits from the eBook settlement, site improvements and increased promotional activity.
Of the $23.7 million decrease in comparable store sales, core comparable store sales, which exclude
sales of NOOK® products, decreased $20.1 million, or 2.8%, as compared to the prior year due
primarily to lower traffic. Book categories decreased sales by $14.4 million, or 3.0%, due primarily to
declines in Trade book and Bargain sales (primarily coloring books), partially offset by higher
Juvenile sales (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child). Non-book core categories decreased sales by
$5.7 million, or 2.4%, for the quarter as declines in the Newsstand, DVD and Café businesses were
partially mitigated by increases in Toys & Games and Gift products. Comparable sales of NOOK®
products at B&N Retail stores decreased $3.6 million, or 31.9%, primarily on lower device unit
volume and lower average selling prices.
• NOOK sales decreased $8.5 million, or 19.4%, to $35.0 million during the 13 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 from $43.5 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015, and accounted for
4.1% of total Company sales. Digital content sales decreased $4.5 million, or 14.1%, compared to
prior year on lower unit sales, partially offset by higher average selling prices. Device and accessories
sales decreased $4.0 million, or 33.8%, on lower unit sales and lower average selling prices.
• Elimination sales, which represent sales from NOOK to B&N Retail on a sell-through basis,
decreased $2.3 million, or 24.4%, versus the prior year. NOOK sales, net of elimination, accounted
for 3.2% of total Company sales.
During the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016, B&N Retail had no store openings and no store closings.
During the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016, the Company’s sales decreased $100.8 million, or 5.4%, to $1.772 billion
from $1.873 billion during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. The changes by segment are as follows:
• B&N Retail sales for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 decreased $87.3 million, or 4.8%, to
$1.712 billion from $1.800 billion during the same period one year ago, and accounted for 96.6% of
total Company sales. Comparable store sales decreased $72.4 million, or 4.7%, as compared to the
prior year. Closed stores decreased sales by $22.0 million. B&N Retail also includes third-party sales
of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., which decreased by $3.2 million, or 14.0%, versus the prior year on
lower coloring book sales. Online sales increased $6.8 million, or 5.4%, versus the prior year period
on benefits from the eBook settlement, site improvements and increased promotional activity.
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Of the $72.4 million decrease in comparable store sales, core comparable store sales, which exclude
sales of NOOK® products, decreased $61.5 million, or 4.0%, as compared to the prior year due in
large part to lower traffic and the challenging retail environment. Book categories decreased sales by
$53.0 million, or 5.1%, on lower sales of Trade and Bargain titles (primarily coloring books),
partially offset by higher Juvenile sales (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child). Non-book core
categories decreased sales by $8.5 million, or 1.7%, as declines in DVD, Newsstand and Café
businesses were partially mitigated by increases in Toys & Games and Gift products. Comparable
sales of NOOK® products at B&N Retail stores decreased $10.9 million, or 39.5%, primarily on
lower device unit volume.
• NOOK sales decreased $21.7 million, or 22.2%, to $76.1 million during the 26 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 from $97.8 million during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015, and accounted for
4.3% of total Company sales. Digital content sales decreased $11.5 million, or 16.7%, compared to
prior year on lower unit sales, partially offset by higher average selling prices. Device and accessories
sales decreased $10.2 million, or 35.5%, primarily on lower unit sales.
• Elimination sales, which represent sales from NOOK to B&N Retail on a sell-through basis,
decreased $8.2 million, or 33.8%, versus the prior year. NOOK sales, net of elimination, accounted
for 3.4% of total Company sales.
During the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016, B&N Retail had no store openings and two store closings.
Cost of Sales and Occupancy

Dollars in thousands 2016 Sales 2015 Sales 2016 Sales 2015 Sales
B&N Retail $591,784 71.2% $607,486 70.6% $1,215,210 71.0% $1,264,700 70.3%
NOOK 18,602 53.1% 26,929 61.9% 40,398 53.1% 62,950 64.3%
Elimination (7,213) (20.6)% (9,547) (21.9)% (16,092) (21.1)% (24,321) (24.9)%
Total Cost of Sales and
Occupancy $603,173 70.3% $624,868 69.8% $1,239,516 69.9% $1,303,329 69.6%
The Company’s cost of sales and occupancy includes costs such as merchandise costs, distribution center costs (including
payroll, freight, supplies, depreciation and other operating expenses), rental expense, common area maintenance and real
estate taxes, partially offset by landlord tenant allowances amortized over the life of the lease.
During the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016, cost of sales and occupancy decreased $21.7 million, or 3.5%, to $603.2
million from $624.9 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015. Cost of sales and occupancy increased as a
percentage of sales to 70.3% from 69.8% during the same period one year ago. The changes by segment are as follows:
• B&N Retail cost of sales and occupancy increased as a percentage of sales to 71.2% from 70.6%
during the same period one year ago on higher markdowns for promotional activity including Harry
Potter and the Cursed Child (90 basis points), occupancy deleverage (40 basis points) and lower
eCommerce margins on higher promotional activity to increase site traffic (25 basis points), partially
offset by timing of vendor settlements (55 basis points). The remaining variance was comprised of
product mix and general timing differences.
• NOOK cost of sales and occupancy decreased as a percentage of sales to 53.1% from 61.9% during
the same period one year ago. This decrease was primarily due to sales mix.
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During the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016, cost of sales and occupancy decreased $63.8 million, or 4.9%, to $1.240
billion from $1.303 billion during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. Cost of sales and occupancy increased as a
percentage of sales to 69.9% from 69.6% during the same period one year ago. The changes by segment are as follows:
• B&N Retail cost of sales and occupancy increased as a percentage of sales to 71.0% from 70.3%
during the same period one year ago primarily on higher markdowns for promotional activity
including Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (75 basis points), occupancy deleverage (50 basis
points) and lower eCommerce margins on higher promotional activity to increase site traffic (30 basis
points), partially offset by timing of vendor settlements (30 basis points). The remaining variance was
attributable to product mix and general timing differences.
• NOOK cost of sales and occupancy decreased as a percentage of sales to 53.1% from 64.3% during
the same period one year ago. This decrease was primarily due to sales mix, improved device margins
and a favorable channel partner settlement.
Gross Profit

B&N Retail $238,935 28.8% $253,219 29.4% $497,222 29.0% $535,003 29.7%
NOOK 16,440 59.1% 16,567 48.8% 35,692 59.5% 34,881 47.5%
Total Gross Profit $255,375 29.7% $269,786 30.2% $532,914 30.1% $569,884 30.4%
The Company’s consolidated gross profit decreased $14.4 million, or 5.3%, to $255.4 million during the 13 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 from $269.8 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015. This decrease was due to the matters
discussed above.
The Company’s consolidated gross profit decreased $37.0 million, or 6.5%, to $532.9 million during the 26 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 from $569.9 million during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. This decrease was due to the matters
discussed above.
Selling and Administrative Expenses

B&N Retail $235,460 28.3% $252,435 29.3% $476,152 27.8% $488,915 27.2%
NOOK 19,186 68.9% 37,846 111.5% 46,385 77.3% 73,496 100.0%
Total Selling and Administrative
Expenses $254,646 29.7% $290,281 32.4% $522,537 29.5% $562,411 30.0%
Selling and administrative expenses decreased $35.6 million, or 12.3%, to $254.6 million during the 13 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 from $290.3 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015. Selling and administrative expenses
decreased as a percentage of sales to 29.7% from 32.4% as compared to the same period one year ago. The changes by
segment are as follows:
• B&N Retail selling and administrative expenses decreased $17.0 million as compared to prior year,
or 100 basis points as a percentage of sales to 28.3% from 29.3% for the quarter. This decrease was
primarily due to a prior year separation-related net severance charge of $10.5 million (120 basis
points).
Favorable variances to the prior year also include lower website expenses (25 basis points), as the
prior year included fixes to stabilize the site and improve traffic and customer experience, and lower
pension expense (10 basis points) on the prior year plan termination. The current year includes a
severance charge net of reversal of expense relating to equity awards of $3.0 million resulting from
the CEO departure (35 basis points) (see Note 18 to Consolidated Financial Statements). Unfavorable
variances to the prior year also include increased severance costs (30 basis points) primarily resulting
from a cost reduction program, and higher store payroll (10 basis points on store sales) as sales
deleverage and wage increases offset productivity gains. The remaining variance was attributable to
expense deleverage and the general timing of expenses.
• NOOK selling and administrative expenses decreased $18.7 million as compared to prior year,
decreasing as a percentage of sales to 68.9% from 111.5% for the quarter. This decrease was
primarily due to continued cost rationalization efforts, including lower compensation and lower
severance, as well as lower variable costs on the sales decline.
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Selling and administrative expenses decreased $39.9 million, or 7.1%, to $522.5 million during the 26 weeks ended
October 29, 2016 from $562.4 million during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. Selling and administrative expenses
decreased as a percentage of sales to 29.5% from 30.0% as compared to the same period one year ago. The changes by
segment are as follows:
• B&N Retail selling and administrative expenses decreased $12.8 million as compared to prior year,
increasing 65 basis points as a percentage of sales to 27.8% from 27.2% for the year.
The current year includes a severance charge net of reversal of expense relating to equity awards of
$3.0 million resulting from the CEO departure (20 basis points). Unfavorable variances to the prior
year also include increased severance costs (50 basis points) primarily resulting from a cost reduction
program, higher store payroll (40 basis points on store sales) as sales deleverage and wage increases
offset productivity gains, increased eCommerce advertising costs (25 basis points) to promote site
traffic and increased consulting fees related to the cost reduction program (10 basis points). The prior
year included a separation-related net severance charge of $10.5 million (60 basis points). Favorable
variances to the prior year also include lower pension expense (10 basis points) on the prior year plan
termination. The remaining variance was attributable to additional expense deleverage and the
general timing of expenses.
• NOOK selling and administrative expenses decreased $27.1 million as compared to the prior year,
decreasing as a percentage of sales to 77.3% from 100.0% during the same period a year ago. Current
year expenses include severance and transitional costs of $7.2 million related to the outsourcing of
certain services and the closure of its California and Taiwan offices. Excluding these costs, the
decrease in dollars was primarily attributable to continued cost rationalization efforts, including lower
compensation, as well as lower variable costs on the sales decline.
Depreciation and Amortization

B&N Retail $ 24,558 3.0% $ 26,446 3.1% $ 49,520 2.9% $ 51,226 2.8%
NOOK 5,436 19.5% 8,618 25.4% 11,511 19.2% 17,491 23.8%
Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 29,994 3.5% $ 35,064 3.9% $ 61,031 3.4% $ 68,717 3.7%
During the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016, depreciation and amortization decreased $5.1 million, or 14.5%, to $30.0
million from $35.1 million during the same period one year ago. This decrease was primarily attributable to fully
depreciated assets, partially offset by additional capital expenditures.
During the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016, depreciation and amortization decreased $7.7 million, or 11.2%, to $61.0
million from $68.7 million during the same period one year ago. This decrease was primarily attributable to fully
depreciated assets, partially offset by additional capital expenditures.
Operating Loss

B&N Retail $ (21,083) (2.5)% $ (25,662) (3.0)% $ (28,450) (1.7)% $ (5,138) (0.3)%
NOOK (8,182) (29.4)% (29,897) (88.1)% (22,204) (37.0)% (56,106) (76.3)%
Total Operating Loss $ (29,265) (3.4)% $ (55,559) (6.2)% $ (50,654) (2.9)% $ (61,244) (3.3)%
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The Company’s consolidated operating loss decreased $26.3 million, or 47.3%, to an operating loss of $29.3 million
during the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 from an operating loss of $55.6 million during the 13 weeks ended
October 31, 2015. This change was due to the matters discussed above.
The Company’s consolidated operating loss decreased $10.6 million, or 17.3%, to an operating loss of $50.7 million
during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 from an operating loss of $61.2 million during the 26 weeks ended
October 31, 2015. This change was due to the matters discussed above.
Interest Expense, Net and Amortization of Deferred Financing Fees

October 29, October 31, % of October 29, October 31, % of
Dollars in thousands 2016 2015 Change 2016 2015 Change
Interest Expense, Net and Amortization of
Deferred Financing Fees $ 1,961 $ 2,338 (16.1)% $ 3,590 $ 5,257 (31.7)%
Net interest expense and amortization of deferred financing fees decreased $0.4 million, or 16.1%, to $2.0 million during
the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 from $2.3 million from the same period one year ago. This decrease was primarily
due to lower deferred financing costs in conjunction with refinancing of the credit facility in August 2015.
Net interest expense and amortization of deferred financing fees decreased $1.7 million, or 31.7%, to $3.6 million during
the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 from $5.3 million from the same period one year ago. This decrease was primarily
due to lower deferred financing costs in conjunction with refinancing of the credit facility in August 2015.
Income Taxes

October 29, Effective October 31, Effective October 29, Effective October 31, Effective
Dollars in thousands 2016 Rate 2015 Rate 2016 Rate 2015 Rate
Income Taxes $ (10,817) 34.6% $ (30,694) 53.0% $ (19,419) 35.8% $ (31,547) 47.4%
The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $10.8 million during the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 compared
with an income tax benefit of $30.7 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015. The Company’s effective tax
rate was 34.6% and 53.0% for the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. The income tax
benefits for the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015 differs from the statutory rate due to the impact of
permanent items such as meals and entertainment, non-deductible executive compensation, tax credits, changes in
uncertain tax positions and the impact of return to provision adjustments and state income taxes, net of federal benefit. The
Company continues to maintain a valuation allowance against certain state items.
The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $19.4 million during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 compared
with an income tax benefit of $31.5 million during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015. The Company’s effective tax
rate was 35.8% and 47.4% for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015, respectively. The income tax
benefits for the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016 and October 31, 2015 differs from the statutory rate due to the impact of
permanent items such as meals and entertainment, non-deductible executive compensation, tax credits, changes in
uncertain tax positions and the impact of return to provision adjustments and state income taxes, net of federal benefit. The
Company continues to maintain a valuation allowance against certain state items.
Net Loss from Continuing Operations

Dollars in thousands 2016 2015 2016 2015
Net Loss from Continuing Operations $ (20,409) $ (27,203) $ (34,825) $ (34,954)
As a result of the factors discussed above, the Company reported consolidated net loss from continuing operations of
$20.4 million during the 13 weeks ended October 29, 2016, compared with consolidated net loss from continuing
operations of $27.2 million during the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015.
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As a result of the factors discussed above, the Company reported consolidated net loss from continuing operations of
$34.8 million during the 26 weeks ended October 29, 2016, compared with consolidated net loss from continuing
operations of $35.0 million during the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015.
Net Loss from Discontinued Operations

Net Loss from Discontinued Operations $ — $ (12,023) $ — $ (39,146)
The Company has recognized the separation of B&N Education in accordance with ASC 205-20, Discontinued
Operations. As such, the historical results of Barnes & Noble Education have been classified as discontinued operations.
Discontinued operations in the 13 weeks ended October 31, 2015 primarily consisted of investment banking fees (as they
directly related to the Spin-Off) and separation-related costs.
Discontinued operations in the 26 weeks ended October 31, 2015 primarily consisted of pre-spin B&N Education results,
investment banking fees (as they directly related to the Spin-Off) and separation-related costs and excluded corporate
allocation adjustments with B&N Retail.
Net Loss

Net Loss Attributable to Barnes & Noble, Inc. $ (20,409) $ (39,226) $ (34,825) $ (74,100)
As a result of the factors discussed above, the Company reported consolidated net loss of $20.4 million during the 13
weeks ended October 29, 2016, compared with consolidated net loss of $39.2 million during the 13 weeks ended
October 31, 2015.
As a result of the factors discussed above, the Company reported consolidated net loss of $34.8 million during the 26
weeks ended October 29, 2016, compared with consolidated net loss of $74.1 million during the 26 weeks ended
October 31, 2015.
Critical Accounting Policies

During the second quarter of fiscal 2017, there were no changes in the Company’s policies regarding the use of
estimates and other critical accounting policies. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations,” found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016 for
additional information relating to the Company’s use of estimates and other critical accounting policies.
Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This quarterly report on Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking statements (within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended) and information relating to Barnes & Noble that are based on the beliefs of the management of Barnes & Noble
as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the management of Barnes & Noble. When used in
this communication, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “will,” “forecasts,”
“projections,” and similar expressions, as they relate to Barnes & Noble or the management of Barnes & Noble, identify
forward-looking statements.
Such statements reflect the current views of Barnes & Noble with respect to future events, the outcome of which
is subject to certain risks, including, among others, the general economic environment and consumer spending patterns,
decreased consumer demand for Barnes & Noble’s products, low growth or declining sales and net income due to various
factors, including store closings, higher-than-anticipated or increasing costs, including with respect to store closings,
relocation, occupancy (including in connection with lease renewals) and labor costs, the effects of competition, the risk of
insufficient access to financing to implement future business initiatives, risks associated with data privacy and information
security, risks associated with Barnes & Noble’s supply chain, including possible delays and disruptions and increases in
shipping rates, various risks associated with the digital business, including the possible loss of customers, declines in
digital content sales, risks and costs associated with ongoing
36
Table of Contents
efforts to rationalize the digital business and the digital business not being able to perform its obligations under the
Samsung commercial agreement and the consequences thereof, the risk that financial and operational forecasts and
projections are not achieved, the performance of Barnes & Noble’s initiatives including but not limited to its new store
concept and eCommerce initiatives, unanticipated adverse litigation results or effects, potential infringement of Barnes &
Noble’s intellectual property by third parties or by Barnes & Noble of the intellectual property of third parties, and other
factors, including those factors discussed in detail in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” in Barnes & Noble’s Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016, and in Barnes & Noble’s other filings made hereafter from time to
time with the SEC.
Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect,
actual results or outcomes may vary materially from those described as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected,
intended or planned. Subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to Barnes & Noble or persons
acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements in this paragraph. Barnes & Noble
undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise after the date of this Form 10-Q.
Item 3: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

The Company limits its interest rate risks by investing certain of its excess cash balances in short-term, highly-
liquid instruments with an original maturity of one year or less. The Company does not expect any material losses from its
invested cash balances and the Company believes that its interest rate exposure is modest. As of October 29, 2016, the
Company’s cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $11.4 million. A 50 basis point increase in annual interest
rates would have increased the Company’s interest income by $0.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2017.
Conversely, a 50 basis point decrease in annual interest rates would have reduced interest income by $0.0 million in the
second quarter of fiscal 2017.
Additionally, the Company may from time to time borrow money under its credit facility at various interest rate
options based on the Base Rate or LIBO Rate (each term as defined in the amended and restated credit agreement
described in the Quarterly Report under the section titled “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”) depending upon
certain financial tests. Accordingly, the Company may be exposed to interest rate risk on borrowings under its credit
facility. The Company had $191.4 million in borrowings under its New Credit Facility at October 29, 2016 and $192.0
million borrowings at October 31, 2015. A 50 basis point increase in annual interest rates would have increased the
Company’s interest expense by $0.2 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2017. Conversely, a 50 basis point decrease in
annual interest rates would have reduced interest expense by $0.2 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2017.
The Company does not have any material foreign currency exposure as nearly all of its business is transacted in
United States currency.
Item 4: Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The management of the Company established and maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are
designed to ensure that material information relating to the Company and its subsidiaries required to be disclosed in the
reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the
time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to
management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow
timely decisions regarding required disclosures. As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s
management conducted an evaluation (as required under Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act), under
the supervision and with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the
Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures” (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the
Exchange Act). A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute,
assurance that it will detect or uncover failures within the Company to disclose material information otherwise required to
be set forth in the Company’s periodic reports.
Based on management’s evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that,
as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective at the
reasonable assurance level.
37
Table of Contents
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings

The Company is involved in a variety of claims, suits, investigations and proceedings that arise from time to
time in the ordinary course of its business, including actions with respect to contracts, intellectual property, taxation,
employment, benefits, securities, personal injuries and other matters. The results of these proceedings in the ordinary
course of business are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or
results of operations.
The Company records a liability when it believes that it is both probable that a liability will be incurred, and the
amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company evaluates, at least quarterly, developments in its legal matters
that could affect the amount of liability that has been previously accrued and makes adjustments as appropriate.
Significant judgment is required to determine both probability and the estimated amount of a loss or potential loss. The
Company may be unable to reasonably estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for a particular legal
contingency for various reasons, including, among others: (i) if the damages sought are indeterminate; (ii) if proceedings
are in the early stages; (iii) if there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending proceedings (including motions and
appeals); (iv) if there is uncertainty as to the likelihood of settlement and the outcome of any negotiations with respect
thereto; (v) if there are significant factual issues to be determined or resolved; (vi) if the proceedings involve a large
number of parties; (vii) if relevant law is unsettled or novel or untested legal theories are presented; or (viii) if the
proceedings are taking place in jurisdictions where the laws are complex or unclear. In such instances, there is
considerable uncertainty regarding the ultimate resolution of such matters, including a possible eventual loss, if any.
Legal matters are inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties, some of which are beyond the
Company’s control. As such, there can be no assurance that the final outcome of these matters will not materially and
adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
Except as otherwise described below with respect to the Adrea LLC (Adrea) matter, the Company has
determined that a loss is reasonably possible with respect to the matters described below. Based on its current knowledge,
the Company has determined that the amount of loss or range of loss that is reasonably possible (or, in the case of Adrea,
probable), including any reasonably possible (or, in the case of Adrea, probable) losses in excess of amounts already
accrued, is not estimable.
The following is a discussion of the material legal matters involving the Company.
PIN Pad Litigation
As previously disclosed, the Company discovered that PIN pads in certain of its stores had been tampered with
to allow criminal access to card data and PIN numbers on credit and debit cards swiped through the terminals. Following
public disclosure of this matter on October 24, 2012, the Company was served with four putative class action complaints
(three in federal district court in the Northern District of Illinois and one in the Northern District of California), each of
which alleged on behalf of national and other classes of customers who swiped credit and debit cards in Barnes & Noble
Retail stores common law claims such as negligence, breach of contract and invasion of privacy, as well as statutory
claims such as violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, state data breach notification statutes, and state unfair and
deceptive practices statutes. The actions sought various forms of relief including damages, injunctive or equitable relief,
multiple or punitive damages, attorneys’ fees, costs, and interest. All four cases were transferred and/or assigned to a
single judge in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, and a single consolidated amended
complaint was filed. The Company filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint in its entirety, and in
September 2013, the Court granted the motion to dismiss without prejudice. The Plaintiffs then filed an amended
complaint, and the Company filed a second motion to dismiss. On October 3, 2016, the Court granted the second motion
to dismiss, and dismissed the case without prejudice; in doing so, the Court permitted plaintiffs to file a second amended
complaint by October 31, 2016. On October 31, 2016, the plaintiffs filed a second amended complaint. The Court set the
following schedule; motion to dismiss brief due on November 30, 2016, opposition brief due January 6, 2017, and reply
brief due January 31, 2017. A status hearing is scheduled for March 14, 2017.
Cassandra Carag individually and on behalf of others similarly situated v. Barnes & Noble, Inc., Barnes &
Noble Booksellers, Inc. and DOES 1 through 100 inclusive
On November 27, 2013, former Associate Store Manager Cassandra Carag (Carag) brought suit in Sacramento
County Superior Court, asserting claims on behalf of herself and all other hourly (non-exempt) Barnes & Noble
employees in California in the preceding four years for unpaid regular and overtime wages based on alleged off-the-clock
work, penalties and pay based on missed meal and rest breaks, and for improper wage statements, payroll records, and
untimely pay at separation as a result
38
Table of Contents
of the alleged pay errors during employment. Via the complaint, Carag seeks to recover unpaid wages and statutory
penalties for all hourly Barnes & Noble employees within California from November 27, 2009 to present. On February 13,
2014, the Company filed an Answer in the state court and concurrently requested removal of the action to federal court.
On May 30, 2014, the federal court granted Plaintiff’s motion to remand the case to state court and denied Plaintiff’s
motion to strike portions of the Answer to the Complaint (referring the latter motion to the lower court for future
consideration).
Adrea LLC v. Barnes & Noble, Inc., barnesandnoble.com llc and NOOK Media LLC
With respect to the Adrea matter described herein, the Company has determined, based on its current
knowledge, that a loss is probable. On June 14, 2013, Adrea filed a complaint against Barnes & Noble, Inc., NOOK
Digital, LLC (formerly barnesandnoble.com llc) and B&N Education, LLC (formerly NOOK Media LLC) (collectively,
B&N) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York alleging that various B&N NOOK
products and related online services infringe U.S. Patent Nos. 7,298,851 (‘851 patent), 7,299,501 (‘501 patent) and
7,620,703 (‘703 patent). B&N filed its Answer on August 9, 2013, denying infringement and asserting several affirmative
defenses. At the same time, B&N filed counterclaims seeking declaratory judgments of non-infringement and invalidity
with respect to each of the patents-in-suit. On July 1, 2014, the Court issued a decision granting partial summary judgment
in B&N’s favor, and in particular granting B&N’s motion to dismiss one of Adrea’s infringement claims, and granting
B&N’s motion to limit any damages award with respect to another of Adrea’s infringement claims.
Beginning October 7, 2014, through and including October 22, 2014, the case was tried to a jury in the Southern
District of New York. The jury returned its verdict on October 27, 2014. The jury found no infringement with respect to
the ‘851 patent, and infringement with respect to the ‘501 and ‘703 patents. It awarded damages in the amount of $1.3
million. The jury further found no willful infringement with respect to any patent.
On July 24, 2015, the Court granted B&N’s post-trial application to invalidate one of the two patents (the ‘501
patent) the jury found to have been infringed. On September 28, 2015, the Court heard post-trial motions on the jury’s
infringement and validity determinations, and on February 24, 2016, it issued a decision upholding the jury’s
determination of infringement and validity with respect to the ‘703 patent. Since the original damages award was a total
award for infringement of both patents, the Court held a new trial to determine damages for infringement of the ‘703
patent, which trial concluded on July 15, 2016. In a post-trial brief, Adrea asked the Court to award damages of $1.1
million for infringement of the ‘703 patent alone (calculated by applying a 20.2 cent per unit royalty rate to accused sales
for the period November 2009, when the ‘703 patent first issued, through June 30, 2014), and requested enhanced
damages. B&N responded to Adrea’s damages claims, asking the Court to award damages of $0.1 million for
infringement of the ‘703 patent (calculated by applying a 0.2 cent per unit royalty rate to accused sales for the period
November 2009 through the date of the first trial verdict, October 22, 2014), and further responded that no enhanced
damages were available as a matter of law. Adrea filed its replies to B&N’s submissions on September 8, 2016.
Café Manager Class Actions
Two former Café Managers have filed separate actions alleging similar claims of entitlement to unpaid
compensation for overtime. In each action, the plaintiff seeks to represent a class of allegedly similarly situated employees
who performed the same position (Café Manager). Specifically, Christine Hartpence filed a complaint against Barnes &
Noble, Inc. (Barnes & Noble) in Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas on May 26, 2015 (Case No.: 160503426),
alleging that she is entitled to unpaid compensation for overtime under Pennsylvania law and seeking to represent a class
of allegedly similarly situated employees who performed the same position (Café Manager). On July 14, 2016,
Ms. Hartpence amended her complaint to assert a purported collective action for alleged unpaid overtime compensation
under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), by which she sought to act as a class representative for similarly
situated Café Managers throughout the United States. On July 27, 2016, Barnes & Noble removed the case to the U.S.
District Court of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (Case No.: 16-4034). Ms. Hartpence then voluntarily dismissed her
complaint and subsequently re-filed a similar complaint in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas (Case No.:
161003213), where it is currently pending. The re-filed complaint alleges only claims of unpaid overtime under
Pennsylvania law and alleges class claims under Pennsylvania law that are limited to current and former Café Managers
within Pennsylvania.
On September 20, 2016, Kelly Brown filed a complaint against Barnes & Noble in the U.S. District Court for the
Southern District of New York (Case No.: 16-7333) in which she also alleges that she is entitled to unpaid compensation
under the FLSA and Illinois law. Ms. Brown seeks to represent a national class of all similarly situated Café Managers
under the FLSA, as well as an Illinois-based class under Illinois law. On November 9, 2016, Ms. Brown filed an amended
complaint to add an additional plaintiff named Tiffany Stewart, who is a former Café Manager who also alleges unpaid
overtime compensation in violation of New York law and seeks to represent a class of similarly situated New York-based
Café Managers under New York law.
39
Table of Contents
Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table provides information with respect to purchases by the Company of shares of its common
stock:
Total
Number of Approximate
Shares Dollar Value of
Purchased as Shares That
Total Part of May Yet Be
Number Publicly Purchased
of Shares Average Announced Under the
Purchased Price Paid Plans or Plans or
Period (a) per Share Programs Programs
July 31, 2016 – August 27, 2016 258,691 $ 12.46 247,200 $ 10,462,257
August 28, 2016 – October 1, 2016 338,793 $ 11.31 335,500 $ 6,668,167
October 2, 2016 – October 29, 2016 298,919 $ 10.75 295,495 $ 3,493,830
Total 896,403 $ 11.45 878,195
(a) The shares on this table above include 878,195 shares repurchased under the Company’s stock repurchase program,
as well as 18,208 shares relinquished by employees in exchange for the Company’s agreement to pay federal and
state withholding obligations resulting from the vesting of the Company’s restricted stock and restricted stock units,
which are not drawn against the Company’s stock repurchase program. All of the restricted stock and restricted stock
units vested during these periods were originally granted pursuant to the Company’s 2009 Amended and Restated
Incentive Plan. This Incentive Plan provides for the withholding of shares to satisfy tax obligations due upon the
vesting of restricted stock or restricted stock units.
On October 20, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program for the
purchase of up to $50.0 million of its common shares. Stock repurchases under this program may be made through open
market and privately negotiated transactions from time to time and in such amounts as management deems
appropriate. The repurchase program has no expiration date and may be suspended or discontinued at any time. The
Company’s repurchase plan is intended to comply with the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company had remaining capacity of approximately $3.5 million under
this program as of October 29, 2016. As of October 29, 2016, the Company has repurchased 39,741,262 shares at a cost of
approximately $1.08 billion since the inception of the Company’s stock repurchase programs. The repurchased shares are
held in treasury.
40
Table of Contents
Item 6. Exhibits
Exhibits filed with this Form 10-Q:
31.1 Certification by the Executive Chairman (principal executive officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15(d)-14
(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002.
31.2 Certification by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15(d)-14(a) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1 Certification of the Executive Chairman (principal executive officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document
41
Table of Contents
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
BARNES & NOBLE, INC.

(Registrant)
By: /s/ ALLEN W. LINDSTROM

Allen W. Lindstrom
Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
By: /s/ PETER M. HERPICH

Peter M. Herpich
Vice President and Corporate Controller
(principal accounting officer)
November 22, 2016
42
Table of Contents
EXHIBIT INDEX
31.1 Certification by the Executive Chairman (principal executive officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15(d)-14
(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002.
31.2 Certification by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15(d)-14(a) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1 Certification of the Executive Chairman (principal executive officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document
43

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10-Q 1 d282054d10q.

htm FORM 10-Q

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES

Commission File Number: 1-12302

BARNES & NOBLE, INC.

122 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011

Large accelerated filer ☒ Accelerated filer ☐

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Fiscal Quarter Ended October 29, 2016

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1: Financial Statements

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Operations

13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

Sales $858,548 894,654 $1,772,430 1,873,213

Basic loss per common share:

Diluted loss per common share:

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

Net loss $ (20,409) (39,226) $ (34,825) (74,100)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

October 29, October 31, April 30,

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

BARNES & NOBLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

1. Separation of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

2. History of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

3. Discontinued Operations of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.

13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

7. Research and Development Costs for Software Products

8. Internal-Use Software and Website Development Costs

9. Net Earnings (Loss) per Share

13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

Numerator for diluted loss per share:

Denominator for basic and diluted loss per share:

Diluted loss per common share:

10. Segment Reporting

Sales by Segment 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

Sales by Product Line 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

Media (b) 71% 71% 71% 72%

Depreciation and Amortization 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

B&N Retail $ 24,558 26,446 $ 49,520 51,226

Operating Loss 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

Capital Expenditures 13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

(a) Represents sales from NOOK to B&N Retail on a sell-through basis.

13 weeks ended 26 weeks ended

11. Intangible Assets and Goodwill

As of October 29, 2016

Unamortizable Intangible Assets

Total amortizable and unamortizable intangible assets $310,543