B&N’s Fisherman’s Wharf store closes Dec. 31st.

A sign has been posted in the store.

“As far as we know, the rent got raised a little too much for us to deal with,” said a store employee, who did not wish to be named.

Calls and e-mails to B&N spokespeople were not returned.

The San Francisco store is the third to close this year, joining stores in Richmond and at Jack London Square in Oakland.

“It’s business, and it’s tough out there right now,” said the employee.