You don’t always have a bookshelf, or maybe you’re just tired of the usual way to store your books. Whatever the reason, these 16 clever ideas will help you get those books organized, free up some room, and actually make your space look better.
Maximize Space With Books Stacked on a Window Ledge
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Stack books neatly along an interior window ledge.
Stacking Coffee Table Books to Create Decorative Risers
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When smaller decor items need a little lift, stack thick coffee table books underneath. This also breaks up any solid blocks of spines on your surfaces.
Stack Books Vertically on Console Table Shelves
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Arrange books upright on the shelves of a console table. They stay accessible this way, and you can use them to fill empty spaces. This also works to separate items into distinct zones on each shelf.
Floating Shelves Display Books Beside a Patterned Wall
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Narrow floating shelves can be installed against a bold geometric wallpaper. They hold stacks of books, with small potted plants tucked between them.
Slanted Wooden Ledge Holds Books Like Stair Steps
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A rustic, slanted wooden ledge mounts directly on the wall. It lets books sit like stair steps.
Woven Baskets Keep Children’s Books Neatly Organized
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Woven baskets are a good way to keep children’s books upright on a shelf. The natural material adds texture to the area. Best of all, their open design means titles are visible and easily accessible for little hands.
Dalmatian-Spotted Bin for Playful Book Storage
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A white bin on simple legs stores children’s books. Inside, a black and white dalmatian spot pattern lines the interior.
Rolling Cart Organizes Books and Office Essentials
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A teal rolling cart holds books across its top two shelves and a printer below.
Hide Books Under Your Bed With a Frame Skirt
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When floor space is limited, tucking books beneath your bed frame offers a hidden storage solution. A simple bed skirt or low-profile frame can then conceal them from view. It’s a way to keep a surprising number of titles out of sight.
Low Window Bench With Integrated Book Shelves
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Multiple low shelves form the base of the bench beneath the window. Paperbacks and favorite titles fill these compartments.
Clear Acrylic Pedestal Holds Stacked Books Beside Bed
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When you need a modern spot for books beside your bed, a clear acrylic pedestal offers an alternative to a traditional nightstand. It keeps your current read right at hand.
Brass Gazelle Bookends Frame Green Spined Volumes
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Brass gazelle figures, positioned as bookends, hold a row of green-spined books on a shelf. The metallic sculptures bring a playful element to the display.
Stack Books as Risers for Decorative Accents
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On the coffee table, a stack of books can serve as a riser for smaller items. A pink candle and a small bottle sit atop the volumes.
Wooden Crates Stacked for Modular Book Storage
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You can repurpose wooden crates to build a shelving unit. Stack them in various configurations, leaving open compartments for books and other items.
Layer Books With Decorative Objects on Mantel Displays
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On a mantelpiece, arrange books both horizontally and vertically, mixing them with small decorative items such as ceramic birds, framed photos, and vases.