• November 12, 2010

Barnes & Noble is testing an interactive playroom for kids in five stores -- 3,000 square feet of "interactive displays, creativity and learning through activities, scientific discoveries, and favorite children's characters."

The boutiques, opening in Enfield and Manchester, Conn.; North Brunswick and Holmdel, N.J.; and The Bronx, N.Y., include areas for kids to experiment with Nook, B&N's eReader, and play with products from Leapster, LEGO, Rokenbok, American Girl, and Crayola.

The company says the spaces will enable parents to "choose quality educational toys and games in a very fun and hands-on way."