GUEST POST: 7 Tips for Creating a Home Library

Every so often, the good people at Siege Media send me a nice infographic to share. It’s legitimately one of my favorite things to find in my Inbox. I think you’ll enjoy this one, and the nice introduction that they sent to go with it.

7 Tips for Creating a Home Library by Jennifer Anderson

Ever seen those picture-perfect home libraries and wish you had your own?

Adding a home library, or the specific place in the home for storing all of one’s favorite reads, is a bookworm’s dream for a reason. The beautifully organized shelving offers both a decorative touch to any space and a peaceful respite for the avid reader. You may have your favorite digital or audiobooks, but nothing beats an extensive library of physical books.

In this guide, we explain how to make a home library by starting with seven simple tips. Keep reading to learn everything you need to begin creating your own personal collection.

1. Analyze Your Collection
The first step to creating a home library is to gather all the books you currently own and sort them by category. You might find that you already have enough books to fill up your personal collection. If not, you’ll want to determine which kinds of books you want to add to your library.

Taking note of how many books you have will help you determine how much space you need for your home library.

2. Find the Space
Once you’ve determined how many books you have, you’ll need to find a space in your home that can accommodate your collection. It’s best to avoid spaces on outside walls, since their temperature can change frequently.

In addition, steer clear of areas where you eat and drink to avoid pests. Instead, opt for spaces you don’t use as much, like under beds or in corner nooks.

3. Determine Your Budget
Next, you’ll need to figure out a budget for your home library renovation. Take note of any costs that come with the storage and accessories you want, such as shelving, seating, and cushions.

If you don’t have enough books to fill your space, factor in any additional costs for book purchases. Check out compilations in your desired genre, like some of the best nonfiction books, and determine the price of those additions.

4. Choose Your Shelving
There are two main types of shelving used in home libraries: built-in and freestanding. Built-in shelving refers to permanent fixtures built into the walls of the home. Alternatively, freestanding shelving is a movable fixture, such as a bookcase.

The type you choose will depend on the kind of look you want, as well as whether you want your library to be temporary or permanent.

5. Think About Lighting
Since your home library is where you’ll do the most reading, it’s critical to have ideal lighting. To do so, you’ll want to make sure the natural and artificial light in the room meet your needs.

Try to choose a room with a window that lets in a lot of natural light during the day. From there, add lamps for accent lighting that highlights your home library and makes it easier to read at night.

6. Add Lots of Color
Many home libraries make great use of color, in the form of both books and extra elements. To give your space your desired color palette, consider painting your shelving, putting on wallpaper, or adding colorful trinkets on your shelves.

Whichever colors you choose, just make sure to match your home library’s color scheme with the rest of the room.

7. Pick an Organization Style
Your home library is your own personal collection, so it’s important to decide on an organization style that makes the most sense for you. Popular styles include chronological, alphabetical, by color, or by genre.

For those who have kids, place their favorites like the Harry Potter series on lower shelves so they’re within reach.

Making a home library can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually easier than you think. Simply by following these seven tips, you can start creating the home library of your dreams.

For even more information and tips about creating a home library, take a look at the infographic below.