Volume 1, Issue 41  |  September 1, 2026


Barnes & Noble opens in South Coast Plaza

On Wednesday, Aug. 26, Barnes & Noble held their grand opening in South Coast Plaza. Located on Level 3 in the Macy’s Home wing, the store spans more than 27,000 square feet – filled with books, exclusive gifts, curated toys, and a Barnes & Noble Café featuring an outdoor patio with stunning views and more.

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Submitted photos

Located in the upper level of the Macy’s wing, Barnes & Noble is filled with books, curated toys and exclusive gifts

The opening of the new Costa Mesa Barnes & Noble marks the first of its design, thoughtfully curated to reflect the Costa Mesa community. The bookstore features luxurious wood floors, artisan-inspired tilework, book and gift offerings, a whimsical children’s department and much more.

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Books on surfing and sailing

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A section just for young adults

“When our store in Metro Pointe Costa Mesa was forced to close nearly 10 years ago, it was a great loss to the community,” said James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble. “Now, we return to South Coast Plaza with a one-of-a-kind store that truly reflects the caliber and culture of Costa Mesa.”

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Unwind with a good book at the in-store café

Store Manager Karen Cutler, who has been with Barnes & Noble for 31 years, worked at the old location in Costa Mesa and is ecstatic to be returning to the new store. “Returning to Costa Mesa feels like coming home. It’s incredibly rewarding to help bring Barnes & Noble

back to this community. Building a new bookstore from the ground up has allowed me to be involved in every aspect of the process – I couldn’t wait to open our doors.”

Upcoming in-store events:

–Saturday, Sept. 5 at 11 a.m.: Storytime Reading with PJ Gardner

Children’s author PJ Gardner will be reading his book and signing copies in store after the reading.

–Saturday, Sept. 5 at 1 p.m.: Author Signing with Chelsea Ichaso

Young Adult author of mystery/thrillers Chelsea Ichaso will be signing her latest book Beware the Abbott Boys in store for customers.

–Sunday, Sept. 6 at 1 p.m.: Author Signing with Autumn Krause

Join B&N as Autumn Krause stops by and signs copies of her newest Young Adult science fiction/fantasy novel, The Gods Will Sing Our Song.

For a calendar of events, go here.

Barnes & Noble in South Coast Plaza is located at 3333 Bear St., Ste. 340, Costa Mesa.


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