I’m always looking for new spots to study. However, my laptop does not have the best battery life so I need to find cafes and bookstores with power outlets.
Which got me wondering, does Barnes and Noble have power outlets? Can I study in a Barnes and Noble?! I looked into it and this is what I found…
Does Barnes & Noble Have Power Outlets?
Barnes & Noble bookstores do have power outlets in their stores, as do all large retail stores. However, how accessible they are to the public depends on the store you’re in, the age of the building, and the physical set up of shelves, displays, and tables.
This article takes a look at what it’s like to sit and study at Barnes & Noble: where you can go, what you need, and what you should know.

Can I Bring My Laptop To Barnes and Noble?
Barnes & Noble became popular with young readers and students when they teamed up with Starbucks and added café spaces to their book stores. Now it’s common to see students, alone or in groups, working quietly away in the public spaces in Barnes & Noble stores.
It’s fine to bring a laptop or any other device. You may or may not be able to plug it in though. Fans of Barnes & Noble stores advise that it’s best to call your local store and ask first.
You’re also welcome to use Barnes & Noble Wi-Fi, which is free at all their locations.
How Do I Access Barnes & Noble Wi-Fi?
It’s easy to connect to B&N free internet. Simply open up a web browser on your device and the Barnes & Noble web landing page will appear.
You’ll have to review and accept their terms and conditions: you’ll then be connected. There’s no time limit on how long you can use it, but regular users of the service advise that it is delivered at a throttled speed. This is a protective measure to prevent the continual downloading of massive files.
The wi-fi speed, however, is find for regular study needs, such as the viewing of webpages, files, and images.
Can I Do Homework At Barnes & Noble?
It’s fine to meet at Barnes & Noble and complete homework with friends or just work away on your own. Barnes & Noble are always happy for newcomers to visit and use their stores. There are seats and carpeted areas, and the cafes have regular tables and chairs set up.
There are a few courtesy requirements that are worth remembering. Following these makes the environment better for everyone.
First of all, Barnes & Noble are retail bookstores, not libraries. This means the stock is for sale, not for borrowing.
Don’t just take books out to read and then return them to the shelves. Browse the books for sure, but every now and again, purchase something. This helps the environment you’re using to keep going.
Keep the noise down. This applies to everyone, especially if it’s a busy environment. If you like listening to music while you study, use headphones. If you’re listening to a lecture, use headphones, and if you’re talking part in an online tutorial or Zoom session, take it outside.
It’s courtesy to also take your phone calls outside or at least away from the main area.
Can I Do Homework In Barnes & Noble Bookstore Cafes?
Studying while enjoying a Starbucks coffee at Barnes & Noble is a favourite pastime for many students. There’s coffee and snacks and free wi-fi. Whether you can recharge a device depends on the location.
Studying in a café calls on the same level of courtesy and thoughtfulness as in any other public space.
If you’re going to use the café, the staff will approach you to take an order because this is their job. If you’re using their tables, then it’s good manners to order something at least once.
Treat staff (and other diners) with respect, always clean up after yourself, and you’ll be a welcome patron.
Want to learn more about Barnes and Noble? Check out our related posts:
- Does Barnes and Noble Take Apple Pay?
- Does Barnes and Noble Price Match?
- Why Is Barnes & Noble So Expensive?
Summary
Barnes & Noble retail stores have taken on the look of local libraries since they added cafes and tables to their store spaces. This has people wondering just how far the welcome goes.
The answer is that anyone is welcome to come in and stay awhile, whether it’s to browse and buy, sit and read, or study on a laptop.
The Wi-fi is free and the coffee is Starbucks! But remember: always use your common sense and respond to the hospitality with respect and courtesy.