Bookcases are essential, decorative pieces that bring style and organization to virtually any room. However, choosing one can be difficult because there are so many different types and styles. That’s why we’re here to help you narrow down your options and choose the right bookcase for you.

5 Minutes, 5 Key Decisions

• Key Decision 1: Bookcase Type
• Key Decision 2: Bookcase Style
• Key Decision 3: Special Features
• Key Decision 4: Material and Finish

Kids Bookcases

Quality and Value

 

Key Decision 1: Bookcase Type

While standard bookcases are highly popular for homes and offices, other types of bookcases are becoming more popular because of their visual appeal or functionality. Which type is best for you depends on how much storage you need and how much space is available for the bookcase itself.

Standard Bookcases - Standard bookcases feature two or more horizontal bookshelves, and some may include drawers or shelves with doors. This type of bookcase is usually constructed of wood and is available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate most spaces.

Corner Bookcases - Corner bookcases feature a right-angled back panel, fitted bookshelves and are specifically designed to fit in a corner. These bookcases are a great way to make use of an unoccupied corner near a window or door that would otherwise go unused.

Cube Bookcases - Rather than horizontal shelves, cube bookcases feature sets of square or rectangular cubbies. This type of shelving often makes it easier and more elegant to organize groupings of objects such as books, vases and other treasures. 

Ladder Bookcases - Ladder bookcases are becoming increasingly popular, especially for country and modern styles of décor. These bookcases feature an open-backed frame and bookshelves that range from deeper to shallower as they stack from the bottom to the top. 

Barrister Bookcases - Also known as lawyer bookcases, barrister bookcases were originally designed to store law books and feature a front glass panel that lifts open from the bottom. Depending on the model, some barrister bookcases also feature a drawer or shelves with doors.

Industrial Bookcase - Widely used in schools, offices and warehouses, industrial and commercial bookcases put function over form. Most industrial bookcases are made of metal, feature horizontal bookshelves and may even include wheels for increased mobility.

Key Decision 2: Bookcase Style

Bookcases are available in a wide range of styles from traditional to modern so that you can find one to suit almost any room. Once you know what type of bookcase you need, decide which style will work best with your décor.

Traditional Bookcases - Traditional bookcases feature curved lines and detailed woodwork to create an ‘old world’ feel. These bookcases are often easy to match with classically styled rooms, especially when purchased in matching sets. 

Modern Bookcases - Sleek, streamlined and sophisticated, modern bookcases feature minimal detailing or decorative woodwork. And, some of the more ultra-modern bookcases feature bookshelves that are positioned in alternative, eye-catching geometric arrangements.

Transitional Bookcases - Transitional bookcases combine the sleekness of modern bookcases with the softer, decorative detailing of traditional bookcases. These bookcases are often easily matched with multiple styles, including eclectic, modern, country and antique.

Country Bookcases - While they vary in their level of detailing, most country bookcases feature either a white finish or a richly pronounced wood grain to create a natural, rustic look. Country bookcases fit in best with furniture similarly inspired by cottages and rural getaways.

Key Decision 3: Special Features

From stackable and folding bookcases to those with wheels, many units are designed to offer a range of additional storage options. Once you know what type, style and size you need, consider a bookcase that may give you some extra storage versatility. 

Stackable Bookcases - Lightweight and versatile, stackable bookcases are becoming increasingly popular. Multiple units can be stacked one on top of another when you need extra storage, and some stackable bookcases also fold up to easily store away when you need the space.

Bookcases with Doors - Bookcases with solid panel doors are a stylish option to discreetly hide away personal items that while useful, may not enhance the décor. And, bookcases with glass doors let you display some of your treasures a bit more securely than in the open.

Bookcases with Drawers - Another option for discreet storage, bookcases with drawers let you tuck away items that would otherwise create a mess. And, they provide extra organization as combination drawer and bookshelf units for bedrooms and dorms. 

Bookcases with Wheels - Wheels are an especially popular feature for industrial and commercial bookcases because they provide easy mobility for constantly changing rooms. Bookcases with wheels can also be invaluable for those who regularly move books from place to place. 

Bookcases with Adjustable Shelves - These bookcases let you adjust the space between each shelf so that you can make best use of the entire bookcase. Adjustable bookshelves are ideal for those who display books of different heights or rearrange the contents of the bookcase on a regular basis. 

Eco-friendly Bookcases - Environmentally friendly bookcases are made from sustainable or recycled materials. Available in a wide variety of types and styles, eco-friendly bookcases offer an attractive, conscientious storage solution.

Key Decision 4: Material and Finish

Just as with your other furniture, what your bookcase is made of plays a huge role in its look, quality and price. Once you know what type of bookcase you want and in what style, choose the material that will best suit your decor and your budget. Solid Wood Bookcase - Wooden bookcases are excellent investment pieces because they last for years and their natural visual appeal ages beautifully. 

All Wood Bookcases
Light Wood Bookcases
Medium Wood Bookcases
Dark Wood Bookcases

Metal Bookcases - Metal bookcases are highly durable and depending on their design, ideally suited as either industrial bookcases or as contemporary bookcases for modern-styled rooms.

Kids Bookcases

We have a great selection of kids bookcases, perfect for the bedroom, classroom or library! Start shopping by checking out some of our most popular styles:

Book Displays
Mobile and Rolling Bookcases
Double-Sided Bookcases
Stackable Bookcases
Bookcases in Primary Colors
Bookcases in Pastel Colors

Quality and Value

The right bookcase adds storage and style to almost any room, but it’s important to balance your budget with the level of quality you want. Whether you’re looking for an investment piece or a short-term bookcase, you can find one that fits your storage needs and your budget.

Under $500 - Choose any one of these budget friendly metal or wood bookcases and add stylish storage to your home, office or even dorm room.

$500-$1,000 - Expand your options to include more styles and bookcases with more features to add versatile storage and a sophisticated look to any space.

Over $1,000 - Bring home a premium quality bookcase and display your treasures in the ultimate style and elegance.