Sales at Barnes & Noble have now fallen for five consecutive quarters; earnings have declined for seven consecutive quarters.

The bookseller’s results reflect a broader struggle among retailers trying to find growth as consumers cut discretionary spending. Bookstores have been grappling not only with the falloff in consumer spending but heavy competition from online booksellers and discount chains.

This summer has also lacked a hit book, which typically lifts retailers’ sales during the beach season. Last summer’s key titles included “The Host,” Stephenie Meyer’s blockbuster science-fiction tale.

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I’m not surprised to read about their sales plumeting. I’ve been buying less books due to not having extra money. I often purchase from a local used book store – they’re cheaper. I always check there first.

Do you still purchase as many books as you did about 2 years ago? Why or why not?

Do you think not having a summer hit book has something to do with sales falling?