About Bookcases

While bookcases have traditionally been utilitarian items, they do not have to just house your favorite tomes. They can be unique items of decor in and of themselves while providing a safe haven for beloved books and other valuable decorative items. When you are selecting a bookcase for a room, there are many things to consider, including its purpose and what it will contribute to the overall look of the area.

History

While we often take books for granted today, they were long considered rare and valuable luxury items that only the very rich could afford. As a result, books might actually be stored in their own decorated boxes or on shelves with locked doors. A good bookshelf still should serve the purpose of protection and display.

Function

Bookshelves are generally used to hold books. However, this does not have to be the extent of their use. Many people like to accent their bookshelves with unique book ends or even with curios. You can also use a bookshelf as a site for additional mood lighting or to set off a portion of a room.

Types

Barrister bookshelves are beautiful pieces of furniture in and of themselves. They often have beveled glass doors and ornate wood carving, but they are deep enough and large enough to house a small library comfortably and in style. Ladder bookcases, on the other hand, are more whimsical. They are more modern in design and are shaped like a ladder that leans against the wall. They are not usually enclosed and have narrower shelves than barrister cases. Open bookcases are the most utilitarian type of case, and are generally just wooden shelves. Wooden door bookcases completely hide your books from the world behind solid doors.

Benefits

The main benefit of a bookcase is that it gives you somewhere to put your books. However, a bookcase is also a decor item, and should be viewed as such. An open bookcase, like a ladder bookcase, can brighten up a room and make it appear modern and spacious. Large, glass front cases look opulent and add an air of grandeur to a room.

Size

When you are selecting a bookcase, you will need to decide what size you need. Long, low cases can double as television stands or areas for floral or botanical displays. Tall bookcases can cramp a small room, but they also can make a reading nook feel cozy.

Warning

Bookcases are items of decor, but their functional nature requires that you purchase bookcases that have solid construction. Flimsy bookcases not only are a higher risk for breaking and spilling your books everywhere, but they have a much higher probability of toppling. This can cause serious injury.