Bookcases and shelving are essential pieces of furniture in any home or office. They serve both functional and decorative purposes, providing a place to store books, decorative items, and other belongings while also adding to the overall aesthetic of the room.
These versatile pieces come in various sizes, materials, and designs, making them suitable for any space.
When shopping for bookcases and shelving, it’s important to consider the type of material used, the size, and the weight capacity. The material used can affect the durability and style of the piece, with options ranging from traditional wood to modern metal and glass.
Size is also crucial, as it determines how much space you have to store your items and how well the piece fits into the room. Weight capacity is another crucial factor, especially if you plan to store heavy items like books.
We spent hours researching and testing different bookcases and shelving units to find the ones that offer the best combination of style, durability, and functionality.
In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of bookcases and shelving units available, and provide our top picks for each category.
Best Bookcases And Shelving
We know that finding the perfect bookcase or shelving unit can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best bookcases and shelving units to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re looking for something modern or traditional, small or large, we’ve got you covered. Our team of experts has researched and tested a variety of products to bring you the top picks in terms of quality, durability, and design.
So, without further ado, here are our top choices for the best bookcases and shelving units.
Furinno Luder Bookcase / Bookshelf / Storage Shelves, 5-Tier, Blackwood
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly bookcase that’s easy to assemble and fits in any room, the Furinno Luder Bookcase might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Simple and stylish design that blends in with any decor
- Easy to assemble and sturdy on a flat surface
- Fits in small spaces and on a tight budget
Cons
- Made of particle board, not solid wood
- Some physical flaws like nicks and dents in the wood
- Screws are not set in and stick out about 1/8 inch off the bookcase
We recently purchased the Furinno Luder Bookcase for our home office, and we’re pretty happy with it. The bookcase is available in multiple colors, but we chose the blackwood finish to match our desk. The assembly was straightforward and took us less than an hour to complete.
The bookcase is stable and sturdy on a flat surface, but we recommend securing it to the wall if you have children or pets.
The bookcase has five tiers, which provide ample storage space for books, files, and decorative items. The shelves are not adjustable, but they are wide enough to accommodate most books and binders. The bookcase is also lightweight and easy to move around if needed.
However, we noticed some physical flaws in the wood, such as small nicks and dents. The manufacturer painted over one dent with white paint, which is not very noticeable unless you look closely.
Also, the screws are not set in and stick out about 1/8 inch off the bookcase. We recommend using a screwdriver to tighten them and avoid scratching the surface.
Overall, we think the Furinno Luder Bookcase is a great value for the price. It’s simple, functional, and fits in any room. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly bookcase that’s easy to assemble and provides ample storage space, we recommend giving this one a try.
IRONCK Industial Bookshelves and Bookcases Floor Standing 6 Shelf Display Storage Shelves 70 in Tall Bookcase Home Decor Furniture for Home Office, Living Room, Bed Room, Vintage Brown Vintage Brown 1 Pack
We highly recommend the IRONCK Industial Bookshelves and Bookcases Floor Standing 6 Shelf Display Storage Shelves for anyone looking for a sturdy and stylish bookshelf.
Pros
- The shelves are made of durable MDF particleboard and can hold up to 22 lb each, providing ample storage space for books, photographs, or decorative boxes.
- The strengthened screws and tip-over resistance device provide stability, making it a safe and reliable choice for any room in your home.
- The clean-lined 6-tier bookcase measures at 23.8″W x 9.3″D x 70.8″H, making it a versatile option for almost any space in your home.
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming and challenging, especially when done alone.
- The bookcase is a little more expensive than other options on the market.
- Some customers wished there were covers to hide the hardware.
We were impressed by the IRONCK Industial Bookshelves and Bookcases Floor Standing 6 Shelf Display Storage Shelves’ chic rustic design and ample storage space. The shelves are made of sturdy material and are easy to assemble with clear instructions and labeled parts.
However, assembly can be time-consuming and challenging, especially when done alone. Overall, we highly recommend this bookshelf for anyone looking for a stylish and reliable storage solution for their books and decorative items.
VASAGLE Bookshelf
We highly recommend the VASAGLE Bookshelf for anyone looking for an affordable and stylish storage solution.
Pros
- The shelves are adjustable and can hold up to 22 lbs each, making it perfect for storing a variety of items.
- The rustic brown shelves and black frame give it a unique and trendy look that will fit in with any decor.
- The assembly process is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great option for those who are not handy with tools.
Cons
- The particleboard construction may not be as durable as solid wood.
- The shelves are not very deep, so larger items may not fit as well.
- The X-shaped cross rods may get in the way of taller items on the shelf.
We love the VASAGLE Bookshelf for its versatility and modern design. It’s perfect for displaying books, plants, or other decorative items in any room of the house.
The adjustable shelves make it easy to customize the space to fit your needs, and the compact size is perfect for smaller rooms or apartments. The only downside is that the particleboard construction may not hold up as well over time as solid wood.
Overall, we think this is a great option for anyone looking for a stylish and affordable bookshelf.
IRONCK Bookshelf Double Wide 6-Tier 76″ H, Open Large Bookcase, Industrial Style Shelves, Wood and Metal Bookshelves for Home Office, Easy Assembly Vintage Brown 6 Tiers
We highly recommend the IRONCK Bookshelf Double Wide 6-Tier 76″ H for anyone looking for a sturdy and spacious bookcase.
Pros
- The bookshelf is made of thicker metal frame and P2 grade MDF board, making it durable and solid.
- The double wide 6 tier shelf has 12 spacious shelves, providing ample storage space for books, decorations, and memorabilia.
- The bookshelf comes with a tipover resistance device and 6 foot pads to prevent tipping and scratching.
Cons
- The vertical posts are thinner than other bookshelves, making it feel slightly under-engineered.
- The directions for assembly are vague and require some trial and error.
- Thin or small books may slip out and fall from the sides of the shelves.
The IRONCK Bookshelf is a great addition to any home or office. Its industrial-inspired style adds a touch of uniqueness to any decor. The crossbar design at the back makes the bookshelf more stable and durable, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
Assembly is relatively easy, although the directions could be more detailed. Once assembled, the bookshelf is very sturdy and can hold heavy items without any issues. The tipover resistance device and foot pads provide added safety and protection.
Overall, we highly recommend the IRONCK Bookshelf Double Wide 6-Tier 76″ H for anyone in need of a spacious and durable bookcase.
Origami Wooden Inserts for RPR Series 5-Shelf 6-Shelf Organizer Pantry Rack, RB Series 6-Shelf Bookcase Shelf | Pack of 6
If you’re looking for an easy way to keep your Origami Pantry shelf organized, then you should definitely consider the Origami Wooden Inserts for RPR Series 5-Shelf 6-Shelf Organizer Pantry Rack, RB Series 6-Shelf Bookcase Shelf | Pack of 6.
Pros
- The wooden inserts are specifically designed for the Origami RPR 5 Collapsible Pantry Shelf series, so they fit perfectly and look great.
- The sunken tiers on the RPR-05 Shelves keep the Wooden Inserts stable in place, so you don’t have to worry about them moving around or falling out.
- They are made of sturdy, composite wood and are easy to clean.
Cons
- The wooden inserts are not compatible with other Origami R-Series wire shelves, so make sure you have the right shelf before purchasing.
- They only come in one size, so they may not be suitable for all types of items.
- They are a bit pricey compared to other shelf inserts on the market.
We recently purchased the Origami Wooden Inserts for our Origami Pantry shelf and we’re very happy with our purchase. The wooden inserts fit perfectly and look great, and the sunken tiers keep them stable and secure. They are also very easy to clean and maintain, which is a big plus.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Origami Wooden Inserts for RPR Series 5-Shelf 6-Shelf Organizer Pantry Rack, RB Series 6-Shelf Bookcase Shelf | Pack of 6 to anyone looking for an easy way to keep their Origami Pantry shelf organized and looking great. They may be a bit pricey, but they are definitely worth it in our opinion.
WGX Design For You Industrial 6-Tiers Modern Ladder Shelf Bookcase
We highly recommend the WGX Design For You Industrial 6-Tiers Modern Ladder Shelf Bookcase for those looking for a stylish and versatile storage solution.
Pros
- The retro industrial design adds a unique touch to any room.
- The multi-functional shelves can be used for a variety of purposes, such as displaying decor or storing bathroom accessories.
- The compact size saves valuable floor space.
Cons
- The gold finish on the pipes may flake off slightly over time.
- The shelves may appear slightly slanted, but they are sturdy and level.
- The paint may be chipped in some places upon arrival.
This bookcase is made from quality metal pipes and pine wood, giving it a rustic and vintage look. The six-tier design provides ample storage space, while the ladder shape adds visual interest. The shelves are easy to install and can be used in a variety of rooms, including bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.
The WGX Design For You Industrial 6-Tiers Modern Ladder Shelf Bookcase is a great choice for those who want a stylish and functional storage solution. The shelves are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, making them a great addition to any room.
The compact size also makes them ideal for small spaces. Overall, we highly recommend this bookcase to anyone looking for a unique and practical storage solution.
IRONCK Bookcase and Bookshelves Triple Wide 6-Tiers Large Open Shelves
If you’re looking for a sturdy bookcase with ample storage space, the IRONCK Bookcase and Bookshelves Triple Wide 6-Tiers Large Open Shelves is a great option.
Pros
- The upright panels on each shelf prevent items from falling off, making it a safe storage option for your books, plants, and other essentials.
- The bookcase is crafted from premium P2 grade MDF and 4 metal frames, making it a sturdy and durable option for long-term use.
- With a vintage color that blends effortlessly with your existing color scheme, this bookcase is easy to match with any room in your home.
Cons
- The bookcase requires assembly, which may take some time and effort.
- The compartments height may not be suitable for larger items.
- While it comes with anti-toppling metal brackets to prevent tipping, it may not be suitable for households with young children or pets.
Overall, we recommend the IRONCK Bookcase and Bookshelves Triple Wide 6-Tiers Large Open Shelves for anyone in need of a spacious and sturdy bookcase. It’s a great option for those looking for a vintage and industrial style bookcase that can fit in any room.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying bookcases and shelving, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the size and capacity of the bookcase or shelving unit you need. Think about the space you have available and how many books or items you need to store.
Be sure to measure the area where you plan to place the unit to ensure it will fit properly. Also, consider the weight capacity of the shelves to ensure they can hold the items you plan to store.
Material
Bookcases and shelving units are made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Wood is sturdy and attractive, but can be heavy and may require more maintenance.
Metal is durable and often more affordable than wood, but may not have the same aesthetic appeal. Plastic is lightweight and easy to clean, but may not be as durable as other materials.
Style and Design
Bookcases and shelving units come in a variety of styles and designs, from traditional to modern. Consider the overall style of your room and choose a unit that complements it. Also, think about the design of the unit itself. Do you want open shelves or closed cabinets? Do you prefer a unit with adjustable shelves or fixed shelves?
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. For example, some bookcases and shelving units come with built-in lighting, while others have integrated power outlets. Some units may have wheels for easy mobility, while others may be designed to be mounted on the wall. Think about your specific needs and choose a unit that has the features that will be most useful to you.
By considering these factors, you can choose a bookcase or shelving unit that meets your needs and fits seamlessly into your home or office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular materials for bookcases and shelving?
Bookcases and shelving come in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Wood is a popular choice for its durability, warmth, and natural beauty. Metal is often used for its sleek, modern look and durability.
Glass adds a touch of elegance and can make a small space feel more open. Plastic is a lightweight and affordable option, often used for children’s rooms or temporary storage.
What are the dimensions of IKEA bookcases?
IKEA bookcases come in a range of sizes to fit different spaces and needs. The most popular sizes are the Billy bookcase, which is 31 1/2 inches wide and 11 inches deep, and the Kallax shelf unit, which is 57 7/8 inches wide and 15 3/8 inches deep. Both options come in various heights to fit your storage needs.
How can I choose the right bookcase for my space?
When choosing a bookcase, consider the size of your space, the amount of storage you need, and the style of the room. A tall bookcase can make a small room feel cramped, while a short bookcase may not provide enough storage. Look for a bookcase that fits your needs and complements the style of the room.
What are some creative ways to style a bookshelf?
There are many ways to style a bookshelf, including arranging books by color, interspersing decorative objects, and adding plants. Use bookends to keep books upright and create visual interest. Consider adding lighting to highlight your favorite items or create a cozy ambiance.
What are the benefits of a bookcase with doors?
A bookcase with doors can help keep dust off of books and protect them from damage. It can also provide a cleaner, more streamlined look to a room. Doors can be especially useful for storing items that you don’t want on display, such as office supplies or personal items.
What are some affordable options for bookcases and shelving?
Affordable options for bookcases and shelving include plastic, wire, and particleboard options. Consider shopping at discount stores or online retailers for budget-friendly options. You can also repurpose items such as crates or cinder blocks for a unique and affordable storage solution.