Ah..what’s better than free wi-fi! Big ups to Barnes & Noble for offering free Wi-Fi in all 777 of its stores throughout the United States. Barnes & Noble said on Tuesday that it had signed a strategic agreement with AT&T to provide free Wi-Fi to all customers in its stores. Steve Riggio, chief executive of Barnes & Noble, said the company promoted its stores as “community centers” with cafes, comfortable seating and on-site events like book signings. “It’s a gathering place and Wi-Fi access is increasingly becoming something that customers expect in public places,” said Mr. Riggio, adding that many airports now offered a similar service. “We’ve always considered our stores as quasi-public settings and public gathering places and thought this was the perfect opportunity to provide our customers with free access.” Customers can also download free Barnes & Noble Apps giving them access to the world’s largest eBookstore with over 700,000 eBooks titles and exclusive content, customer reviews, information about in-store events, store locations, and more. The free apps include: * Discover their next great read by browsing bestsellers, B&N Recommends lists, new releases or watching video interviews with authors. * Check the events calendar for celebrity book signings, readings, musical performances and children’s Storytimes. * Find the closest Barnes & Noble, get maps and directions. * Use the iPhone’s camera to snap a photo of a front cover and within seconds promptly retrieve product details, editorial reviews, and customer ratings – even find and reserve a copy in the nearest store. Super cool, Barnes! Thanks for understanding the needs of your consumers. Source: NY Times