Founder & CEO, Barnes & Noble, Inc.

Leonard Riggio began his career as a clerk at the NYU bookstore. Convinced he could provide better service to students, he opened a competing store in 1965. His business thrived and, in 1971, he bought the flagship Barnes & Noble bookstore. He changed the book industry with such innovations as extensive selection of books, discounts, and comfortable stores that have become community institutions. His revolutionary concepts have made Barnes & Noble the world’s largest and most respected bookseller.