-
Step 1
Plan ahead. Before converting that unused nook in your home into a library, decide what features you want your library to have. If there will be a computer in your library with an Internet connection, make sure that cable can be run to that section of your home. If your library is going to be used to house a large number of books, consider how large of a library you want and determine if that nook is going to be able to hold all of the literature you want to include in your library and still be roomy and comfortable.
-
Step 2
Utilize optimal lighting. If you're converting an unused nook or space in your home, the lighting in that part of your home is likely minimal and might not be the best quality. To protect your eyes when reading and relaxing in your home library, add some additional lighting to the nook. Add a few old-fashioned floor or desk lamps to give your nook a studious lighting feel or install track lighting in the ceiling of the nook for all-over lighting that doesn't take up much space.
-
Step 3
Install plenty of shelf space. A home library is meant to be added to and expanded over time so install plenty of shelf space to house your current collection of favorites and classics while still leaving room for future additions. Begin by sorting through your current book collection, getting rid of any books you don't want to keep or don't read anymore and determine how many bookshelves you need for the books you already own. Then take into account how often you purchase new books and make some shelf space available for these as well.
-
Step 4
Consider soundproofing. Unless you plan on hiring a librarian to tell everyone to hush and keep their voices down, your home library will be susceptible to the noise and commotion that occurs in the other areas of your home. If you want to eliminate these outside intrusions and guarantee that your home library is just as quiet and reader-friendly as your local library, install soundproofing in the nook that you are converting. Soundproofing material is applied similarly to insulation to all walls of a room; find this material at many home improvement stores along with guidelines to help you install it properly.
-
Step 5
Make it reader-friendly. When adding all of your books and computers to your new home library, don't forget to make sure there are plenty of places to sit and read. There is nothing better than curling up in a comfortable chair with a good book so put a few overstuffed chairs, a couch or even some beanbag chairs in your home library. This will guarantee that there is always somewhere to sit and will make your library more reader-friendly.
