I really don't see how it would have been such a big deal for you or your husband to choose a couple of books for yourself and then accompany your child over to the children's section. I have an 8 year old and a 4 year old, so obviously I have to accompany my kids. However, with my daughter, I give her more space. I allow her to look through the children's section while I sit on the stairs or table in that section. If she has a question or needs me at all, I'm right there. If not, she enjoys browsing books appropriate for her age.

As others have suggested, there are plenty of nasty people out there ready to take advantage of unaccompanied children. There are also plenty of people out there ready to sue stores when their child is hurt or violated in some way, even though they weren't watching their own child. I also see books that have been ripped up, plastic torn off, bent up etc. especially in the children's section. There are so many reasons why a store such as B&N would require you to watch your child.

I do believe that the employee could have been more tactful when telling you of their policy.