Barnes & Noble to consolidate publishing operations

PORTLAND, Ore. According to reports, Barnes & Noble said it would no longer publish bargain books through an in-house division in an effort to consolidate operations.

The retailer said that Sterling Publishing, a publisher it acquired in 2003 will now handle the creation of bargain books. The move will eliminate a small number of jobs and eliminate duplicative functions, a spokeswoman said.

Barnes & Noble has taken several steps to control expenses this year. Back in January, the company announced that it would cut close to 100 positions at its corporate headquarters.