How to Anchor a Bookshelf to a Wall

Anchoring bookshelves to a wall protects the bookshelf during earthquakes and keeps it from falling during regular use. To anchor a bookshelf to a wall you need only a few supplies and less than 30 minutes of free time. Anchoring a bookshelf to a wall is the safest way to insure it doesn't fall over taking your shelved belongings with it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• "L" brackets
• Screws
• Drill or screwdriver

1. Find the studs in the wall behind the bookshelf. You may have to move or rotate the bookshelf until it sits in front of a stud.

2. Measure the height of the bookshelf. Divide it up into three equal sections. Mark the dividing line between the sections on the back of the shelf. Line at least one of the dividing lines up with a stud in the wall.

3. Place an "L" bracket on the back top edge of the bookshelf so they are at the dividing lines. The short part of the "L" is flush against the wall while the longer part of the "L" lays on the top of the bookshelf.

4. Screw the "L" brackets into the bookshelf and then into the wall. At least one needs to be anchored to a stud in the wall. This leaves you with two "L" brackets on each side at equal distances from each other that are both secured to the wall.

5. Place "L" brackets on the inside upper corners of the bookshelf. Line the brackets up with the studs in the wall. Secure a screw through the bracket and into the stud in the wall. Secure another screw through the bracket and into the upper part of the bookshelf.

6. Anchor the bookshelf to the studs in the wall by simply driving a screw through the back of the bookshelf and into the right place on the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have multiple bookcases place beside each other, screw them together as well as screwing them to the wall. This makes them more stable.
• Install a small metal or wooden dowel rod across the front of the shelves to hold the contents on the shelf.

Resources

• Find other ways to make your home more safe.