Office supplies retailer Staples will become the second third-party retailer to carry the Amazon Kindle after it launches the device early this fall, the company announced today.

The Kindle is currently only available through Amazon.com and select Target stores. Staples will carry the new $139 Wi-Fi-only Kindle model, which is smaller and lighter than its predecessor, as well as the Kindle 3G ($189) and the Kindle DX ($379).

 “As part of our efforts to offer customers a wide range of top technology products and services at amazing values, the new Kindle is a natural fit,” said Jevin Eagle, Staples’ executive vice president of merchandising and marketing, in a statement.

The device will be available in all of Staple’s 1,550-plus U.S. retail stores beginning early this fall. The company did not provide a specific release date.

The Kindle will be Staples’ second eReader after the Aluratek Libre Pro and is part of the company’s 2010 holiday lineup. The retailer will also carry an assortment of accessories for the Kindle.

The Kindle is Amazon’s best-selling product but faces steep competition in the eReader space from devices like the Nook, which is being sold through Barnes & Nobile and Best Buy.