The nation's three leading bookstore chains entered this holiday season with fewer total stores than they operated one year ago. As of November 1, Barnes & Noble, Borders and Books-A-Million had a total of 2,266 outlets, down from 2,310 at the same time in 2002. The decline is the result of the chain's decision to close mall stores at a more rapid rate than they open superstores. B&N added 26 superstores over the last year, while closing 50 Dalton outlets. Borders had a net gain of 43 superstores, but closed 59 Waldenbooks locations. BAM held the number of superstores even at 163, while closing six traditional stores.