Barnes & Noble's Nook sells out

NEW YORK (AP) — Consumers who haven't yet ordered Barnes & Noble's electronic book reader, the Nook, won't see one before Christmas.

The earliest that anyone who orders the $259 device on Friday — or later — will receive it is Jan. 4, 2010, the nation's largest bookseller said Friday.

"While we increased production based on the high consumer interest, we've sold out of our initial Nook allotment available for delivery before the holidays," the company said in a statement. Preorders exceeded its expectations, the New York company said.

Customers who had hoped to buy a Nook as Christmas or Hanukkah present can get a certificate to present in lieu of the device.

Barnes & Noble said it is ramping up supply to meet the demand. The company wouldn't say how many Nooks it has sold.