Barnes & Noble to Open Alexandria Store November 4

The new bookstore will debut at the Shoppes at Foxchase in the city's West End.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A modern brick retail storefront with large windows and a clean awning, set in a suburban shopping plaza.
Barnes & Noble will expand its regional presence by opening a new retail location in Alexandria's Shoppes at Foxchase on November 4. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Barnes & Noble is set to open a new location at 4515 Duke Street in Alexandria on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 10 a.m. The new store will occupy a space formerly held by a Walgreens.

Why it matters

This opening marks a continued expansion for the bookseller, which is opening 15 new stores throughout the month of November 2026. It serves as an additional local option alongside the company's existing Potomac Yard Shopping Center location.

The company currently operates more than 735 stores, an increase from the nearly 600 locations it held in 2023. As part of its 2026 growth strategy, the brand is opening a total of 60 new bookstores this year.

The players

Barnes & Noble

This American bookseller is the largest retail bookseller in the United States.

Bsrat Mezghebe

She is an author who will participate in the opening day ceremonies.

Arthur

This popular costume character is scheduled to appear for weekend story time events.

The details

Author Bsrat Mezghebe will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and book signing to celebrate the store opening. Additionally, the location will feature story time events throughout the weekend with the costume character Arthur.

Timeline

  1. The new store opens Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, at 10 a.m.

  2. Rewards members can earn double stamps on purchases from Nov. 4 to Nov. 8, 2026.

  3. The company is opening 15 new stores across the country in November 2026.

Market Landscape

The company is executing an aggressive physical expansion strategy that aims to grow its national footprint significantly above its 2023 store count. This localized opening in the West End positions the brand to capture more market share against online retail competitors.

Local rewards members can benefit from earning double stamps on their purchases during the first five days of operation. Shoppers can also look forward to specific promotional opportunities when visiting the new facility.

The takeaway

Customers interested in local events can participate in upcoming story time sessions or book signings at the new location. Residents should note the double rewards stamp promotion is valid only during the initial five-day launch period.

Further reading

For more information on retail changes in the area, check out the Openings & Closings section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by ALXnow | Alexandria, Va. breaking news, local events and community happenings.

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Do you believe the opening of new physical bookstores benefits your local community?