Owning a home library would be a dream come true for many of us. But, of course, this home library of yours doesn't need to be as enormous and magnificent as the one from The Beauty and the Beast movie. However, a dedicated in-home reading nook, especially when prepping your home for winter, is quite unique. And, as reading represents different things to different people, like a chance for relaxation, escape, imagination, satisfaction and so on, it's only natural it requires careful thought when planning to include it in your home. For that reason, we compiled a list of six best tips on creating a stylish home library and enjoying hours of uninterrupted reading from the comfort of your home.
Creating a stylish home library
If you are a book lover who's only recently bought a new home, you've come to the right place. People with a passion for reading are often home buyers with a home library at the top of their non-negotiables list.
We learned from the team behind Best Movers NYC that more than half of their clients require professional movers who offer home library moving services. It's great to know that New Yorkers often indulge in their reading passion. But it was also a good opportunity for us to find their tips for creating a stylish home library that adds a touch of elegance and makes their home stand out.
Here's what we found out are the most common things people with great in-home libraries have paid attention to.
● Having a dedicated space;
● Investing in large shelves;
● Book organization;
● Adding personal touches;
● Lighting;
● Keeping the area clean.
Dedicate enough space
The first step in setting up a home library is finding the perfect spot in your home. Look for a room with plenty of natural light and enough space to accommodate your book collection.
For instance, this would be the ideal spot for your home library if you have a spare room. However, a corner of your living room or bedroom can also work well if you don't have a separate room to spare. Just be sure to pick a spot that's quiet and conducive to reading.
Additionally, when choosing a space for your home library, you should consider a couple of things – first, thesize of your book collection. If you have many books, you'll need a larger space to accommodate them. Therefore, it would be good to look into ways to maximize the space, like using vertical storage solutions. Secondly, the room's layout and shelving arrangement. Think about how you want the room to flow and how you want to arrange the books.
Have shelving
Shelving is the most critical element of any home library. Without it, your books will just be scattered all around the room. However, the best option is to choose sturdy shelving that can hold the weight of your books. Depending on your budget and preference, you can use built-in shelving or freestanding shelves.
Generally, built-in shelving is a more permanent and expensive option, but it can add much character and value to your home. So, if you go this route, hire a professional to install the shelving to ensure it's done correctly. On the other hand, freestanding shelves are more affordable and flexible, as you can move them around as needed.
Ultimately, consider the size of your books when choosing the right shelving system. It would be good to make an inventory of your book collection and see what it consists of, whether they're tall or regular size, big or small.
Organize your books
The previous step naturally leads us to this one, which is book organization. You might already have a well-established organizational system. However, if you don't, you can choose to organize your books by some of the following systems:
● genre,
● author,
● era,
● color,
● size, or
● alphabetically.
If you have an extensive book collection, you may want to consider using labels or dividers to help you keep track of where everything is. Labels can be as simple as handwritten notes, or you can use pre-made stickers or printed labels. You can use dividers to separate different sections of your library, such as fiction, non-fiction, or cookbooks.
Whichever way you organize them, be consistent and ensure everything has a designated spot. This will make it easier to find what you're looking for and keep your home library looking neat.
Add your personal touches
A home library isn't just about the books – it's also a reflection of your personal style. So don't be afraid to add some personal touches to the space. The details you add will make your home library feel your own, add to your home's overall ambiance, and make it feel new.
For example, if you choose to hang artwork, make sure it reflects your interests or that ties in with the theme of your home library. For example, consider hanging some antique maps or prints of famous literary figures if you have a classical library. On the other hand, opt for abstract paintings or contemporary photography if you have a more modern library.
Furthermore, rugs can add warmth and comfort to your home library and come in a wide range of styles to suit any décor. Choose a rug that complements the room's color scheme and feels soft and plush underfoot.
Ultimately, a comfortable reading chair is a must-have for any home library. So choose the one you find most comfortable and supportive, whether you prefer a plush armchair, a rocking chair, or a chaise lounge.
Incorporate lighting
Proper lighting is vital for any home library. The best solution is to ensure plenty of natural light coming in during the day and consider adding artificial lighting for reading at night. Table lamps and floor lamps are excellent choices for task lighting, and you can also add some dimmable overhead lighting for a softer, more atmospheric look.
When it comes to artificial lighting, it would be good to consider the type of bulb you use. LED bulbs are energy-efficient and last longer, but they can sometimes have a harsh, blue-tinged light. On the other hand, incandescent bulbs are more traditional and produce a warmer, softer light, but they are less energy-efficient.
Keep your stylish home library tidy
A home library isn't just a place to store your books – it's also a place to relax and escape. To make this your calm sanctuary, make sure to keep it organized and clutter-free. Please take a few minutes each week to tidy up and return any books to their designated spot. This will help you maintain a sense of order and make it easier to find what you're looking for.
The takeaway from creating a stylish home library
Setting up a stylish home library is a fun and rewarding project that can transform your home into a sanctuary of knowledge and relaxation. By following these six tips, you can create a space that's both functional and visually appealing. One that truly reflects your love of books. Whether you're an avid reader or simply enjoy the aesthetic appeal of a well-stocked bookshelf, a home library is a must-have for any book lover.
Author's bio:
Meet Sarah Johnson, a talented and versatile content writer passionate about home interior design. With over five years of experience in the industry, Sarah has written on a wide range of topics, including home décor, DIY projects, and furniture trends. In her free time, Sarah can be found scouring antique stores for unique décor pieces or experimenting with new design ideas in her own home. She is always looking for ways to make her space more functional and stylish and loves sharing her thoughts with her readers.