INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT Exhibit 23 We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 33- 38925, 33-56227, 333-44825, 333-44819, 333-43028 and 333-43804 of New England Business Service, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated July 31, 2001, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of New England Business Service, Inc. for the year ended June 30, 2001. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP Boston, Massachusetts September 4, 2001