I'm gonna update my previous "kinda ambivalent/ kinda negative" review. They're still functioning in what is clearly a "dead mall." And I've been re-thinking my ideas when it comes to malls overall-- relatively thriving malls (Willowbrook), "ghost malls," "dead malls." Phillipsburg Mall was a "ghost mall" when I reviewed it some years ago, and I haven't been back since. As I've also mentioned (ad nauseum, in fact), my review of the former Morris County Mall in Cedar Knolls was pulled due to the interference of Planet Fitness, I'm sure, but I'm re-thinking my negativity towards Planet Fitness because of that. Whether out of desperation or just plain balls, Planet Fitness planted its flag in "ghost mall" country, eliminated all crotchety negativity (from yours truly), and declared that many "excited' Morristown shoppers would transform their improbable vision into a capitalistic success story. I actually don't know how that Planet Fitness in Cedar Knolls is doing, but I hope they're doing well and continue to do even better as time goes on. If you travel to the Cedar Knolls Plaza (former Morris County Mall), you're going to find a deserted, empty mall bracketed on 1 side by a seemingly successful Walmart, and on the other by the aforementioned Planet Fitness. Hence, it's not really a "dead mall" (although, in my subsequently removed review, I only described it as a "ghost mall," which it was, and presumably still is, although maybe that has changed in the years since I last visited. I hope so.). As I wandered about the deserted, decaying Livingston Mall recently, I couldn't really conceive of what was going to be done with this property. Are they going to tear down these structures and build office buildings? Maybe a condo/townhouse development that no one will be able to afford? Or will they be open to other stores, other commercially viable businesses, like Walmart or Planet Fitness or maybe something else entirely? I don't know. I'm not a businessman, experienced in the ways of commerce and economics. I'm an aging wage slave of average intelligence. But, as I noted in my review of the Livingston Mall, I was somewhat heartened that the Barnes & Noble is still hanging on. For good? I'd like to think so, but its shrinking interior and diminishing inventory filled me with an ominous foreboding. My oldest friend, who IS a businessman, experienced in the ways of commerce and economics, of better than average intelligence, told me he thought they'd hold on until the lease or their contract expires. After that, he thinks they'll abandon ship. But what if another business DID decide to do what Planet Fitness did and open a location in the now gigantic empty space that was once a bustling commercial center? How about a Walmart (not that the world really needs ANOTHER one). Maybe even something better and more impressive than Walmart, or Planet Fitness. I don't know if that's realistically feasible or even possible, but wouldn't it be great to see a "dead mall" transformed into a "Back From the Dead" mall? (By the way, I recommend the documentary "Jasper Mall" about a dying mall in Alabama. I found it fascinating.) I haven't been to the Willowbrook Mall in years, but when I pass it on Rt. 46 or Rt. 23, it still seems to be going pretty strong, attracting to me what looks like a high volume of shoppers with money to spend. If shopping malls have truly gone the way of drive-in movie theatres...well, it looks like someone forgot to give the Willowbrook Mall that particular memo. (As I said, I haven't been there in years; I find its confusing snarl of heavy traffic intimidating, but obviously other shoppers don't feel that way.) American Dream seems to be doing OK with its "new and improved" vision of mall shopping. i admire the tenacity of Barnes & Noble in Livingston, a lone outpost in the middle of desolate, forgotten, pot-holed emptiness, doggedly still selling books and magazines, still providing jobs, still giving shoppers a brick-and-mortar place to go when they grow tired and maybe even repulsed at the smug expression on the smirking face of billionaire Jeff Bezos. God knows I've had my problems for years with Barnes & Noble as a chain (all branches are susceptible to that "hard sell" of getting your contact information so they can send you a never-ending stream of ads to your already overloaded email), but I guess this is what hard-pressed businesses and smaller-scale capitalists than Bezos do to keep themselves afloat. My favorite Barnes & Noble in Paramus has closed its doors and that doesn't bode well for those stores that still remain. God knows I'm as guilty as anyone else of pushing that button for Amazon and having something delivered to my door. But when there's an actual brick-and-mortar store not far away that actually does sell something essential and positive, like books, it's almost one's civic duty to try and patronize them. I wish them all the luck in the world. read more

It's still open!! Despite the demise of the Livingston Mall, the B&N is still thriving. Why? How? It's the staffers running the store who make this a good location that still brings in the people. They've kept and continue to keep the store in good condition, and are always helpful and friendly to all visitors. This week I dropped by to pick up a REAL SIMPLE magazine. While checking out, I asked the cashier what's going to happen to the store. She said, at some point this year (2026), the store will move from the mall to another location in Livingston. Hopefully, only the location will be the only thing to change about this Barnes and Noble. read more

Barnes and Noble - Still Open! 2/8/2026 - Bookstores Near Me - Livingston, New Jersey

They are open and alot of customers are still coming in even though the mall is closing. Clean, spacious and organized branch. Clean and smelling good restroom. They have a cafe with pastries. A spacious children's area. Child friendly restroom. See images for further reference. read more

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I have been infatuated with Barnes and Noble ever since childhood. It's truly saddened me to know that so many locations have closed their doors, permanently. However, I am elated that this one still stands. The service is always pleasant and majority of the time I can find whatever I am looking for. If not, they can order it or if I call they can hold it until I get there. Also, if I decide to have a seat and browse, no one bothers me. Much appreciated lol. I love this store and I hope they never close! read more

Goodness, how long has this Barnes and Noble been here? I went to undergrad in the area, and I feel like I would have spent a lot more time at the mall if it was a long time resident! The store has entrances from the outside and inside of the mall. It's very clean and the bookshelves are well faced. There are restrooms, and they're pretty clean. The cafe has a good amount of seating for you to enjoy drink and food, and there are other spots within the store for you to sit and look through a book. They don't seem particularly overstaffed, but enough for a backup cashier if the line gets unruly. They are also pushing a premium membership on top of their current membership program. It's new, so there are some training kinks to work out, like when I get my free bag, but it adds to the value you're paying for. I was surprised with coupons I didn't know i had, ended up getting my book for a few dollars! read more

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2 stars for customer service. I am a frequent customer and a BN rewards member. I just bought a selection of books. It was 9:30am on a Tuesday, the store was nearly empty, and there was only one woman at the cash wrap. I kindly asked her if she could help me find one book. She replied in a snarky tone, "Um maybe you could ask someone at the customer service desk because that's what that's for and you know if I leave the front, who's going to take care of customers?". I wasn't expecting her to walk me to a book. Just search it up in the system and point me in the right direction. It wasn't what she said, it was her disgruntled and rude tone. I always have a pleasant experience here. People's demeanor and personality has everything to do with customer experience. I didn't ask for her name. I don't want to get her in trouble if someone reads this but BN just make sure that your staff is friendly to customers and is taking the time to help them with kindness. read more

I LOVE the setup of this B&N!! It's calm, has everything, I love coming here to study

Good to see ol' Barnes and Noble still standing. One of the planks with glue still holding Livingston Mall up complete with it's own entrance and cafe that serves Starbucks, it's a well kept B and N. All the sections are well stocked and the staff at checkout are ready to help with that as well as answer questions or place an order for you if need be. There is a separate staff member in the children's sections likely to help answer specific questions in that area both from children or their parents. In addition to it's cleanliness the best part about Barnes and Noble ( and B&N in general) is actual books and physical media. In a world that's quickly turning all digital with books, music, movies/TV it's good that it is still available in physical form and new. Sure you can get these things preowned or online retailers Barnes is here just in case that doesn't quite work out. read more

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I love going to a Barnes and Noble store. The smell of books and the fact that you can touch and feel them is cathartic for me. Everything was easy to locate. The staff were friendly and helpful. read more

Barnes and Noble - Starbucks - Bookstores Near Me - Livingston, New Jersey

A nice renovated B&N but honestly less books and more toys these days. The area for music and DVDs keep getti g smaller like books, a bigger kids section and a Starbucks inside for coffee and snacks. Miss the large racks of books to go through discounted books and the B&N special classics that were great to collect. I remember they used to have a great gaming section for RPGs but that's mostly replaced with manga and comic style books now. read more

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The periodicals are well arranged and orderly, unlike the (now) messy shelves at the B&N Union location. I know the clientele is responsible for the mess, but staff keeps up on it here. The reason for the three star is the unfriendly, unsmiling, and cheerless baristas. C'mon folks, crack a smile and act or pretend like you enjoy your job. Edited to reflect major improvement at the Starbucks concession! read more

Good customer service . They got a coffee shop inside and a big space for readers . Huge collection of books and movie stuff . They got all you want and more tbh. Big toy section that's good for buying gifts for family members or friends . Quiet music playing makes it easy to stroll around for and get lost in . Would def recommend . read more

MEETRA FINNIGAN REPORT- on DECEMBER 9th 2024, the incompetent store manager provided unacceptable customer service and violated guidelines, laughing at me over the phone. Claiming there was no selection of what is nearly always available in stock, I kindly asked her to physically check after she made two dismissive remarks stating "Yeah, they're out of stock on the system so what does it matter if we have them or not, if we can't ship it from the store," when numerous occasions I have ordered in store to my house from this location. She was not doing her job and laughed at me when she was not following Barnes & Nobles' policies that they only accept credit cards, not debit cards to complete an order over the phone. I do not have a car to pick up from this location and with the horrid customer service I received over a telephone should speak volumes to how much worse their service is face to face. She rudely hung up on me after asking for her name and she claimed there was no purpose in continuing the conversation, although she was the one not doing her job and being extremely rude and uncouth! Please do not spend a DIME at this location, they know it is closing down, along with Livingston Mall. It is a shame that Mitra had to be so rude, I had to call back and speak to another worker to get her name, at which point, I said "okay, thank you" and hung up, what makes it worse is the fact that they say they can ship books but not the tiny item I have been able to ship from a plethora of other B&N locations throughout the United States when an item I wanted was not in stock nearby. It is as if she does not want to work so she was rude to hang up when she knew what she did was wrong and did not want to reveal her name. Therefore, I am putting Meetra Finnigan on blast, She had the nerve to call me afterwards off their store phone number and then off an unknown caller id number in a scare tactic so that I would feel I did something wrong and not contact corporate, this is completely unacceptable and I strongly suggest that the owner of this franchise location fires her immediately. Thank you for your time. Meetra Finnigan needs to face, at the very least, a demotion in position until she steps up her customer service. The value of my time meant nothing to her, and she is not steering more customers to shop here whatsoever, rather, hanging up on them when asking for her name to report them. This will not fly by anyone and I urge the public not to give this lazy location any business. PLEASE DO NOT SHOP HERE! read more

they got a great selection of books and lovely decoration for your home and desk. I really like the fact that they got a Starbucks in their store. They carry vera Bradly collection, Kate spade and many others. read more

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This was my 1st time coming in here and I have to say i love the lay out! This B&N is pretty big with all the sections that a regular B&N would have however, it seemed to be a little more expansive then the rest of the locations that I've been to. The Starbucks cafe seemed to have more seating, the kids section seemed to be a little bigger and there seem to have been more clearance items then some of the other stores. The store was very clean which was surprising because for some reason there seemed to have been a ton of families and literally a lot of kids running around. Additionally, what makes this location convenient is that it is located right at Livingston Mall, so much of the crowd is leaving the mall and coming here. Overall, I was very impressed with the layout specifically and how big it was compared to all the other locations and I will definitely be back to purchase more reading material! read more

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I come to the cafe here to work fairly often so this review really concerns that more than the actual bookstore. This is most likely the best Barnes and Noble in the area. The cafe has ample seating, plenty of outlets, and is fairly quiet (outside of 3:00PM-4:00PM on weekdays when a bunch of school kids typically come by and carry out their attention-seeking behaviors). The staff is pleasant enough and is very cordial. Can't complain there. I do have a problem with the pricing on the food items. Honestly, most of the food is pretty bad and It's just as expensive as Starbucks, if not more. I only order dark coffees here, because it's only around $3, and even that is a bit of a stretch for a plain dark coffee. I don't mind paying more for quality food and drink, but you won't find it at this cafe. Overall, I recommend coming here for a quiet place to read or work. This location has a nice atmosphere and is also connected to the Livingston Mall, which offers more stuff to do. Sure, the place is basically abandoned at this point, but that's part of its charm to me. I'm aware most people probably disagree. The other Barnes and Nobles in the area don't have enough outlets, seating, or are too loud. The Livingston location wins out easily. Make better food and this would be an easy 5 stars. read more

Absolutely great service when getting breakfast at the Starbucks Cafe in the Barnes and Noble at Livingston Mall. Michael made our special coffee drinks exactly as asked and was very warm and pleasant. read more

Basically your typical Barnes & Noble. I think a little bit smaller than other ones I've been too. Unfortunately it is in the dying Livingston Mall. This and Macy's are the only two anchors in the Mall Sears has closed their doors and the rest of the businesses inside the mall or suffering because of very little traffic coming through. I do not see this mall lasting as well as this Barnes & Noble. read more

Barnes and Noble - Bookstores Near Me - Livingston, New Jersey

I know, I know...step into 2012 and buy a tablet, right? I can't...I read a lot and I like the feel of a real book in my hands. Since I was in the area waiting for my daughter to get through practice, I figured I'd run over to this BN location. The store is located in the Livingston Mall (which I really can't stand) and is really the only reason to shop here (for me at least). This particular BN has a GREAT selection (so I obviously disagree with other reviewers) and the staff here are just great. In fact, I think the selection here for most genres is bigger than most of the other BNs in Northern NJ. Unfortunately, my love of books doesn't mean I like to pay full price for books...in fact, I hate it since the publishing companies have simply pushed the price so high that the only books I buy for myself anymore in places like BN are those that I know I want to keep on my bookshelf. Otherwise, I buy online or at used bookstores. Overall, this is a great Barnes and Noble...and I hope they stick around since I love my books. I just wish publishing houses would realize that their prices are the reason e-books and tablets are becoming more popular and bookstores are becoming obsolete. read more

There are two comfy couches at Starbucks by the window. Great place to sit down enjoy your coffee and books. This place is great for the kids, they can play at the train table, Lego table or have fun at story time. read more

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(sigh) Book stores. There used to be so many! They are dying out. Fortunately not all of them. This Barnes & Noble reminds me of the days when you went to the library or a book store for a book. Yes, I'm old school and refuse to read a book on a tablet. I want the physical book in my hand. This store is beautiful. Everything a Bibliophily could ever want. They have a childrens department too which is great. They also have an area in the back selling books on tape as well as DVD's and vinyl records! It was a riot seeing all the great records from the 70's and 80's. Records that I used to buy with my allowance every week by walking to the record store! Now these same vinyl records are $30 each! It makes me wish that I still had all of my old ones. :( Great selection of magazines as well! read more

I love this Barnes and Noble. It is clean and fresh and has so much breeeeathing room. One downfall: as soon as you walk in you're bombarded with e-book stuff and I'm not into that, I like holding books in my hands and turning the pages. But it's a great B&N regardless of their marketing tactics. Plus, it's attached to the new-and-improved(ing) Livingston Mall (may or may not be a good thing). I'm a bookworm so I'd love this place no matter what shape it was in! read more

This relatively new Barnes & Noble is attached to the Livingston Mall ... I know, I know, but don't let that stop you! I'm a big fan of their Fiction and Science sections. There's nothing better than ordering a latte from the Starbucks Cafe & walking up & down the aisles, balancing an armload of potential new books for your collection. It's usually pretty quiet, and the staff is extremely helpful in tracking down that obscure book - you know, the one where you remember there was a monkey on the cover, and the author's last name maybe started with a K. The periodicals are well-stocked and in good condition (no dog-eared mags here!). However, the last time I was there, the Nook section looked larger and appeared to have caused a little store reorganization. It could have been just for the holidays, as the toys, accessories (desk items, paperweights, magazine racks), and calendar sections were also more prominent than usual. And, a few months ago, they stopped using those computer kiosks which help you locate books in the store (again, the staff is more than helpful, but sometimes I just like to browse authors!). As the only B&N in the area, and therefore my only tangible resource for new books, I hope they get back on track! read more

I had to kill a few hours today while my husband was at a meeting in West Orange, so naturally I chose Barnes & Noble. This store has a great selection in its "local interest" section and it looked like their fiction section is extensive, but everything else was really middling at best. The café was a decent size and there were even a few empty tables, although it was a weekday in the early-mid afternoon. The clerks were all pleasant and the restroom was clean, both of which are real pluses. Still, though, there was a pervasive "stroller brigade" and the music was also much too loud. read more

A nice B&N with a great kids section with good selections. While they don't always have all the latest books, they will be happy to order them for you to pick up in store. There is a Starbucks in here where you can sit with your laptop or a book for hours. They have readings and activities in their kids section, but I wish they would have more adult readings and activities. read more

I will always be a fan of Barnes and Noble or any bookstore. I know , I know..step into the future right? Get a nook...a tablet...an e-reader etc. etc. But books have always been a huge part of my life. I like the feel of the pages between my fingers and the anticipation of the next part being so good your fingers are trying to turn the page faster than your eyes can scan and process what is happening right now. I like being out somewhere and striking up a random conversation with a random person about what I'm/they're reading and finding out that somewhere , we have a strange sameness of preferences in literature. I used to spend a lot of time in Barnes and Noble. Hours. Aimlessly strolling around each aisle surprising myself with topics and genres I didnt' know I liked or existed. The glossy covers of each story catching your eye and sometimes your time if you stop to pluck it off the shelf and give it a quick thumb through. I love seeing kids being excited about the reading area. The stories that make them laugh or learn lessons with bright colorful pictures or pop ups to help their imagination along. This location in particular is quite nice. Huge , like most others and has a very nice cafe section with seating and from what I hear, a great selection of coffee and snacks. The children's section is very cute and large, and what I love is, they have a stage set up! I think this is for when they have guest readers and authors visit. A+ guys! One question I do have is.....WTF happened to all the big cozy,comfy couches and armchairs they used to have in these stores?? The only seating area is at the cafe and there are only THREE cushionly soft seats available. Otherwise you're at a small table with hard wooden chairs. Can we at least get some bean bags? As I get older, the floor just doesn not have the same appeal to me for sitting and reading. But maybe that's their point. They no longer want to welcome you into their arms to nestle and loose yourself in another world. They want you to buy books, buy coffe, buy gifts/accessories or immerse yourself in the nook station. If bookstores really want to stay ontop and compete with online orders and librarys, don't forget about us pre-historic folk who like to call your place our home too. read more

Really, these places are still around...with the onset of Amazon I would think these places would be extinct. I surely was wrong. Place is massive! Books, games and music everywhere. I had a game plan to buy one children's book and nearly $100 later, I was carting off a cook book, a biography, a funny book and a sports book....oh and I almost forgot the kids book...which ended up me buying a set because I liked a couple of them. Enough about my shopping habits. The location is ideal because it anchors a mall (which I don't like...the mall, not the B&N). I did enjoy just walking around (mind you for over an hour) and being in a library on steroids. It's very clean and modern. It's all one floor (unlike the Clifton location). A Starbucks is located inside...and on a cold day this place is perfect to escape the cruel world. Their staff was helpful. Checkout was the only sore spot but the young lady did a great job of moving the line (all the soccer moms were out in full force when I went). ENJOY! read more

I went during a weekday morning, and this customer was monopolizing the CSR's time. I just had a simple question. I waited about 25 minutes and this customer was still there. FINALLY, I asked where this book was. I was given the bum's rush, like this staff person didn't care. There is better service in any library! So....I went to the cashier and asked for a gift card receipt. She said she doesn't know how to give one. Really? If there is a problem with the card, and I have to come back there, I will ask for travel reimbursement. There are at least two racks of gift cards, and I can't get a gift receipt! They are available in the supermarket but not in the store? Obviously, the employees are poorly trained. read more

Why can't regular Starbucks stores carry more food items like the Barnes and Nobles licensed Starbucks outlets? The selection at Barnes and Nobles is much more extensive than regular Starbucks stores. Much more similar to the cafes in Europe where they have a better selection of savories. Good facility, clean, relaxing and well stocked. read more

The whole chain, this location, included, seems to be undergoing some sort of strange conversion. Suddenly books seem to be the least important of their offerings. As a result, three of the last four books I have sought here was not in stock. The clerks have offered to order and ship the missing books to me, but that's why I have Amazon and Prime. Why should I be willing to pay for shipping just so they have more room in each store to pimp their nooks. I'm not, so, for the most part, I will take my business elsewhere. read more

no returns for magazines. I explained that I spend a LOT of money at the store. No help, but a good helping of insincerity. I will NEVER go there again. My 10% off card will expire unused. Amazon, I am yours, and the snooty footsore retail drones who give bad service can go on the dole. I will laugh when this store goes out of business read more

The cafe here is really big with lots of seating. Pretty much exactly the same as other B&N. No plugs.

A very nice book store at the Livingston Mall. Plentiful parking with easy access from the adjacent lot and the mall itself. The store itself has a nice layout. Books, magazines, games/toys and a separate children's section complete with smaller chairs, tables, etc. There's even a little stage where they do readings, puppet shows, magic acts etc. There is plenty to find for all, including a small cafe area with fresh pastries, Starbucks coffee and a small selection of food. Be advised that while they do advertise Starbucks, they are not a Starbucks and will not honor Starbucks gift cards or phone Aps. There are places to sit and eat, multiple sections to relax and read or listen to music and the entire place is just so clean. It's a real pleasure. Usually there are plenty of cashiers that keep the checkout line moving along. The staff is friendly and more than willing to answer questions or help you find what you are looking for. read more

Not a huge store, but they have a decent selection. I'm giving this B&N an extra star for a great kids' section. They have toys, a Lego table, train table, Nook table, and of course ton of kids' books. read more

By far, the best part of the mall. Excellent kids section and a very nice cafe. The staff is quite helpful. They even have a gift wrapping service. The store is always clean and well organized. No small feat in the kids section. read more

I would give this store a 1 star, but the Starbucks coffee and food is good. The problem I have is the book selection is weak. There is ample space in the store, but it seems they only want to focus on selling the electronic book readers. I really wish the Borders in Livingston didn't close down, I really miss that place. They had a much better music and book selection. read more

This is a wonderful smaller store with places to sit and read and the staff is very nice. And I love the smell of new books! Though there is less of a selection the ambiance is wonderful. read more

This is the best and my favorite Barnes and Noble bookstore. I've been to many but overall I highly recommend coming here. It's nice area with plenty of parking along with the mall experience. Above all it's my home away from home especially where I can unwind and relax and not have to worry about anything. Go to Cafe and get your Starbucks drink and their exquisite pastries, pick up a new good book, your favorite magazine, and find your comfortable chair and relax. Also get their membership which is 10% off of everything including food and drinks and you also get 12 free drinks. Well managed, friendly helpful staff, clean and organized, and plenty to browse even gift items. Come regularly and support and save your Barnes and Noble that Amazon can't offer. read more

great place to sit and relax on a rainy day...its HUGE so u can usually find a nice quiet spot to sit and read....they usually have everything i'm looking for...if not the staff is usually very happy to help...plus they have a nice cafe serving coffee, sandwiches, smoothies, dessert, etc. read more

when ever i go to living ston mall i have to stop at barnes &noble. i love the wide selection of books and the fact they have an area where you can relax with your book like being at the library . the only graw back is that the young teens hog more than one table and thats not fair to others other wise be sure to end your shopping at this store with a night cap------coffee itll keep u coming back!!!! read more