Whether you’re a bibliophile or someone who simply enjoys having books around the house, creating space for a home library takes planning and organization. Since this space is highly personal, much of the design will come down to your tastes. Here are a few suggestions to make sure the project comes out the way you’ve always hoped it would be.

Consider how much you can afford.

You’ll want to figure out a budget. Start off by writing down your priorities – for example, the number of shelves or bookcases you want; the materials you want to use (wood, metal, etc.); whether you’ll paint or stain the bookcases or shelves, etc.

Purpose of Your Library – Functional or Elegant

The next step is to settle on the look. Do you want a few sturdy, attractive shelves that are showcased just as much as your books? Or, are you looking for utilitarian space to store your books? Neither has to be exclusive of the other, but it’s a good idea to know the look you want to create.

Ambiance

Ask yourself how you want to feel in your library. Then choose a suitable color to create that environment. If you like the rich feeling of old-time libraries, deep reds or browns may be your style. Or, maybe you like bright and cheery genres and want your library to be airy and relaxing in a light blue, pale yellow or off-white.

Possibilities in Small Spaces

A hallway, a landing, or an alcove make interesting library options. These ideas lend themselves perfectly to apartment or bungalow dwellers.

Space for Lounging

A home library should be more than a catchall for your books and storage. After all, what’s better than curling up on a comfy chair or sofa with a good book? Dedicate an area in your home for a set of big armchairs alongside a wall of bookshelves to create a cozy library corner.

Home Library and Your Children

Recent findings published in the journal Social Science Research show that raising a child in a home filled with books positively impacts her future academic growth and job attainment. Specifically, as Pacific Standard reported, the study found that when it comes to standardized tests, “Regardless of how many books the family already has, each addition to the home library helps children do better.” That makes sense: A book-filled home encourages a culture of reading for enjoyment and talking about books. (https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading/raise-a-reader-blog/study-finds-benefits-of-childs-home-library.html)

Related Reading:
45 Must Have Books for a Home Library
How to Curate the Ultimate Home Library
Books Make a Home: Elegant ideas for storing and displaying books, by Damian Thompson