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Barnes & Noble Expands in Chicago, Reviving Bookstores

1/7/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Barnes & Noble will open four new Chicago-area bookstores in 2026, signaling a push to revive brick-and-mortar retail, including a 30,000-square-foot store at 150 N. State St.
The flagship will occupy the former Old Navy site.
Other locations include a Hyde Park store and a relocation inside Skokie's Westfield Old Orchard Mall.
Volumes Bookcafe in Wicker Park reports sales declines since openings.
Community members urge support for local businesses.

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Story summary

Barnes & Noble will open four new Chicago-area bookstores in 2026, signaling a push to revive brick-and-mortar retail, including a 30,000-square-foot store at 150 N. State St.
The flagship will occupy the former Old Navy site.
Other locations include a Hyde Park store and a relocation inside Skokie's Westfield Old Orchard Mall.
Volumes Bookcafe in Wicker Park reports sales declines since openings.
Community members urge support for local businesses.