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Bookshelves and Storage That Work
How to store a growing collection so it's stable, findable and pleasant to live with.
Match the shelf to the books
Standard shelving handles most paperbacks and hardbacks, but check shelf depth and adjustable shelf height if you own tall art books, cookbooks or vinyl-sized volumes. Adjustable shelves are worth seeking out — fixed spacing wastes space and forces awkward stacking.
For heavy loads, look at solid construction and proper wall-anchoring. A full bookcase is heavier than people expect, and anchoring it to the wall is essential in any home with children or in earthquake-prone areas.
Small spaces and overflow
When floor space runs out, go up: tall narrow bookcases and over-door or floating wall shelves use vertical space well. Cube storage doubles as a room divider. For books you love but rarely open, attractive storage boxes keep them safe and dust-free.
Bookends keep partial shelves upright and stop that slow lean that creases covers.
Shop the picks
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Common questions
How do I stop my bookcase tipping over?
Anchor it to the wall with the brackets most flat-pack units include, load heavier books on lower shelves, and avoid overloading the top. Wall-anchoring is strongly recommended in homes with children.
How should I organise my books?
However you'll actually find them. By colour looks striking but makes titles hard to locate; by author or subject is the most practical. Many people mix: practical order on working shelves, a small display shelf arranged for looks.