As a lover of books, it’s only natural that you have acquired an impressive book collection over the years. And you look to show them off, but find it challenging to build an enviable home library.
The subsequent paragraphs reveal information on how you can achieve this feat. Here are tips on how to go about creating a library for your home.
1. Select a Spot
Yes, the first step is identifying the proposed area to house your collections. Though it’s ideal to have a room with doors dedicated for this purpose, it isn’t necessary.
The critical feature you’d need is a well-lit and ventilated area. Consider using a spot or corner in your home with low traffic and is relatively noise-free.
Having your bookcases in areas with such features helps you to avoid distractions while reading in home libraries.
2. Consider Your Budget
How big are you willing to spend on planning a library for your home? Consider your answer as it will guide your steps in housing your collections.
Draft a list of your priorities, identifying the must-have features you want on display. Is having three shelves necessary, or would two do the trick?
Stay true to yourself, and differentiate between needs and wants, with the former taking priority. After preparing your list and you’ve some change to spare on your budget, you can indulge yourself in some of your wants.
Remember, you are aiming to make a long-lasting library for your home, so it’s best to have one that you find appealing while also reflecting your tastes.
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3. Consider the Thrift Shop
One way to set up a library for your home on a budget, then it’s helpful to go thrifty on your bookcases and bookshelves.
Yes, there’s nothing wrong with buying already used products as long as they are high-quality materials. Consider exploring the storage offerings on social media platforms, thrift shops, yard sales, and more.
Multiple rules guide buyers when going thrifty, one of which is to prepare a shopping list to avoid impulse buying. It’s easy to get carried away as you explore a store and purchase things you don’t need.
4. Storing your Collection
How many books are you looking to store in your library? Having it doesn’t mean you have to store it.
The digital age has made it easy to get access to a good book and in-depth summaries online.
Consider the number of books, so you can set up an appropriate library that’s aesthetically pleasing and clutter-free.
If you’re looking to house an extensive selection of books, then floor-to-ceiling shelves are most appropriate. If funding isn’t a problem, then you can indulge yourself with built-ins.
But if the number of books falls at the other end of the spectrum, then floating shelves, bookcases, or freestanding shelves would suffice for a small number of books.
The critical element to consider is fastening the structure properly to your wall.
5. Remember Your Floor Supports
One criticism of printed books is their weight. Carrying a voluminous book in your bag could be discomforting after long periods.
But there’s no denying the aesthetic value a well-stacked library adds to your home, and the many benefits of printed content.
So, to make up for the heavy burden, ensure your floor can support this load. You can have a professional contractor help pick a great place to house your bookcase or bookshelves.
6. Setting the Mood
People have unique preferences when it comes to their reading environment. Some individuals require classical music, while others prefer a calm and relaxed setting.
Set up your library surroundings to your preferences.
If you have an affinity for the classics, consider painting your library space in luxurious brown or deep red colors.
If you are hunting for a modern feel, a light blue and off-white color mash-up might be the way to go for your library space.
7. The Library Shelving Style
You’re building a personal library and not a public one; you can throw the Dewey Decimal shelving system out the window.
Spice things up and sort your books by author, genre, color, alphabet, or even publication period. Go with what works for you and reflects your tastes.
If you have kids, it’s best to have their books on the lower shelves to give them easier access.
8. The Furniture
Your library needs to have an appropriate sitting arrangement.
Which room houses your bookcases? Your dining room, home office, or your bedroom? Have an appropriate sitting arrangement to match the environment. You can have tables, sofas, or chairs here.
It’s best to avoid putting too much furniture here, as you should aim to always have fluid mobility in the room.
Remember, to also have an excellent lighting system in place here. You can go with an area with ample exposure to natural light, or install bright lights to create a satisfying ambient mood.
Final Thoughts
Consider the guide from this article to gain inspiration and insights into building beautiful home libraries. Your plan starts with identifying a space for your structure, budgeting, and deciding the size of your collections.
After which, you proceed to check for floor support, prepare a conducive environment and sitting system, and pick a shelving style that’s most appropriate for you.
Remember, your goal is to find a publication in as little time as possible without stressing yourself.
