Barnes & Noble CEO Says Store Will Stock AI-Written Books If Labeled and Demanded
Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt said the chain will carry AI-written books if they are clearly labeled and customer demand exists. A company spokesperson stated the retailer does not knowingly sell such titles and expects limited interest.
Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt said the bookseller has no objection to stocking AI-written books provided they are labeled as such and customers request them. "I actually have no problem selling any book as long as it doesn't masquerade or pretend to be something that it isn't," Daunt said on a "Today" show segment on Monday.
"We demand that publishers label any books that are AI generated; we will sell AI-generated books if there is clear demand," the spokesperson wrote in an email to Business Insider. The spokesperson added that the retailer would not ban reputable titles from reputable publishers even if they were AI-generated, provided they are labeled and evidence of customer demand exists.
Some users on TikTok, Reddit, and X expressed concern that AI-written books could displace works by independent authors and questioned whether such titles constitute plagiarism. Other commenters noted that Daunt's position leaves the decision to customers and that demand would determine whether the books appear on shelves.
Barnes & Noble has reported a turnaround under Daunt's leadership and plans to open 60 additional locations this year.
Key Facts
Potential Impact
- 01
Publishers could face pressure to label AI-generated content more clearly.
- 02
Barnes & Noble may add AI-written titles to stores if customer orders increase.
Transparency Panel
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