A common feature of all book lovers across the world; cannot leave a bookstore empty-handed. Adding a book to the already mile high pile at home does not bother book lovers at all. All of this resulting from the intense love and not reading them also gives a pleasure to such people. So if you are also buying a book with every casual visit to the local book stores or book fairs or at the airport, you certainly are a book lover who cannot resist buying at least one book!
The question is, where are you keeping these books? Are you throwing them here and there or pushing them anywhere you find space; under the bed, in a carton? Time to buy a bookshelf mate! Create a mini library from your favourite books. We have some tips to get you started?
Position is the key:
Look for a place to keep your bookshelf. A dream library is best placed well where you can sit in peace and read for hours. Measure the spaces with a measuring tape before you go to purchase a bookshelf. Also, estimate the size by seeing the number of books you have.
Well, don't end up sitting and reading your favourite book and forget the purpose of coming to the pile of books.
If there is a space crunch, if you are just looking for a cosy little reading space, go for a corner bookshelf. If you are lucky and have a room at your disposal to keep your books, buy a full wall or full-length bookshelf to show off your treasure.
Place the shelf at a place where it doesn't get in your way. This way your books are protected from being knocked down by carelessly moving around.
Ideally, you should position your shelf such that it doesn’t get in the way of people. After all, you don’t want someone waving a careless hand and knocking down your books!
Know the purpose
Book lovers cannot lie about their love for books. The problem with them is that they have a way of making shelves groan under their weight. Choose a bookshelf that has a good load-bearing capacity. To keep heavy books, choose sturdy, floor-standing bookshelves. If you have smaller collections, place them in wall-mounted bookshelves. And if relocation is often because of your job or anything else, ditch anything that needs to be affixed to a wall.
Material Matters
A bookshelf will remain with you for probably lifelong. Choose a shelf that is durable and weather-friendly. Solid wood bookshelves are a classic for a reason. They almost stay forever, and lend a timeless air to your space.
If you are looking for pocket-friendly options, look for shelves made from high-quality particle board or MDF. Metal shelves in bright colours also give a super chic and contemporary look.
Plan the bookshelf
Once purchased, get ready to plan your bookshelf. Plan what is to be displayed. Hiding books from borrowers? Or showing off some real classy collection? Would you like your books to share their home with picture frames and travel souvenirs? Depending on your choices, look for shelves that are either open storage, closed storage, or both.
Keep these pointers in mind and shop for the best bookshelf here.