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Step 1
You should have space for this project. A small corner next to the living room couch, sure. Maybe you want to go all out and have one room entirely for your library. That sounds good too. Either way, it's still a library. Make sure the space is homey, comfortable, and not too distracting.
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Step 2
Now with the most important item in the library; BOOKS. You probably have a lot already since you're a bookworm and a bibliophile already. So start with those. If you want to add more, try going to library book sales, garage sales, thrift stores, used book stores, and even the regular priced stores like Borders or Barnes and Noble.
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Step 3
You need good shelves. I know this part might get pricey, so i suggest you take your time into this. Save up or buy one shelving once every month or something. Although you are trying to save money, dont be cheap on this TOO MUCH because you definitely need the good kind of shelves. You'll be using these for.. well, let's say forever. So make it last! It doesnt necessarily mean that you have to get the most expensive. Just the good quality.
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Step 4
If you have stacks and stacks of books on your bookshelves, it can get confusing for you and for others too who might want to check out your library. It can be a lot of work, but as a book lover, you cant resist doing this. Start cataloging them in any way you want; alphabetical, genre, fiction/nonfiction, your favorites, hardbounds, paperbacks, whatever. Just arrange them where it will make it easier for you to find a particular book in the future. Organization is key to a home library.
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Step 5
Design your room! Put comfortable chairs and couches where you can sit or even lay down! Lamps, and maybe even wall lights so you can see your books on the shelves better. Have a coffee table, important especially if you have your fellow bookworm friends around. It's the perfect place to talk about your favorite books as well as enjoy some tea/coffee and other refreshments or food. Art is also important. You can buy framed pictures of book stacks, or old libraries and such.
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Step 6
Suggestion for art: Make your own! Compile your favorite lines or quotes in books (or even in movies) and print them on a vertical type of paper. Frame it. Place it on your wall. It's personalized and very interesting. It also adds a more personal touch to your library.
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Step 7
Overall, this is your space! Enjoy it. Love it. I dont have any doubt that you will.
