48 Home Libraries to Get You Reading
Key Takeaways
- Be bold with color and add in unique elements like trellis or biophilic accents and your home library will be amazing
- DIY built in bookshelves and modern floating shelves will give you a stylish and personalized reading nook without the cost
- Libraries can be multi functional and can be a reading corner to a family space to a space for all ages.
DIY Built-In Bookshelves
DIY built in bookshelves are a great way to have a custom home library without the cost. Start by measuring your space and what the room is for. Costs can be from under $100 to way more depending on the materials used.
A popular hack is to use lower cabinets as a base for built in bookshelves that go almost to the ceiling and then add crown molding and a fresh coat of paint. For a simpler option use pre made bookcases like billy bookcases from IKEA to give the illusion of built ins.
Custom built bookshelves can be made to your size by adjusting the size and shape to fit any room.
Modern Floating Shelves
Modern floating shelves are a great and multi purpose for a home library. They look clean and open in any room. Floating shelves are perfect for a smaller book collection with decorative items and personal accessories.
Top tip for making modern floating shelves is to use pre made wood shelves in different lengths which makes the installation easier. These shelves will turn any wall space into a stylish and functional part of your home library.
Bold Color Statements
Making a bold color statement in your home library will make the space a showstopper and a reading room. Use bold colors like teal blue to paint your bookcases for a statement look. For example custom made bookcases in ‘Vardo’ by Farrow & Ball are dramatic.
Plum colored bookcases provide storage while balancing function with style. A lacquered library with color drenched decor will add storage and visual interest.
Using bright colors will neutralize the room and make book spines pop and add an artistic touch to your personal library.
Wall-to-Wall Bookcases
Wall to wall bookcases are a classic and practical solution for any home library. Custom built bookcases fit the space of the room and are often painted white for a clean and open feel. Pastel colors on shelving will brighten up a multi level library and allow for color coordination and separation. Built ins are a design feature that adds to the room and the home’s value.
Add large light fixtures and mirrors strategically placed to increase the vertical space and ambiance of your bookcases. Use wrap around shelving to make the most of the space especially in attics and add warmth with wood finishes.
Add library ladders and decorative lighting and you have style and function in one home library. These elements make built in bookcases a multi functional and beautiful option for any reading room.
Multipurpose Shelving Solutions
Multipurpose shelving solutions will add functionality to your home library by combining different uses in one space. For example a dining room can be converted into a library by adding built in bookshelves and a bench.
Custom built floor to ceiling shelving solutions can have unique designs that will hold books and display items and add to the library’s functionality and style. Add lighting to the shelving to increase visibility and ambiance.
These will make the most of the space and budget and create a functional home library.
Cozy Reading Corners
Create cozy reading nooks in your home library and have a personal retreat in your home. Add built in bookshelves to a reading nook to make the most of the space and create a warm and snug atmosphere.
Add cozy seating like a plush sofa or reading chair and you add comfort to the overall coziness. Upholstered benches next to glass fronted cabinets will also create a reading nook.
These will design a perfect spot to curl up with a good book in your cozy home library.
Elevated Library Designs
Elevated library designs will make the most of high ceilings to create a dramatic and opulent home library. High ceilings will allow for bigger and bolder designs and add to the overall look. Built in recessed shelving with varying size nooks will make the most of the vertical space and add visual interest.
Elevated bookshelves are art and storage so they become a feature in the room. Items stored or displayed in these shelves, books, art and decorative objects will add to the library’s character.
Minimalist Art Lover’s Library
Minimalist art lover’s libraries will combine love for books and art in a clean and simple design. Dark colours will create a cozy contrast to the natural light in the room and make for a peaceful reading space. Muted greens and pale blues are add to the serenity. Gold accents adds glamour to a dark themed library.
A library ladder with tall shelving will give access to higher books and be fun. Design minimalist bookshelves that will combine books with curated art pieces and you will show off your personality and create a unique library space.
Transformative Antique Bookshelves
Antique bookshelves will bring history and personality to your home library. Apply a primer like BOSS to stop wood stains from bleeding through the paint when renovating antique shelves.
Using multiple paint colours will make the bookshelves fit in with modern decor. Remove the doors from antique bookcases and they will become open display units and display decor items.
Frame the front of the shelves with small boards and you’ll have a custom finish. Renovating antique bookshelves will add character and functionality to your library space.
Two Storey Library Ideas
Two storey libraries will add glamour and elegance to your home. These will often have spiral staircases to add visual and functional interest. Additionally cozy reading nooks on both levels will create reading spots and make the space more usable and enjoyable. Fireplaces in two storey libraries will add to the warmth and ambiance of the reading experience.
Open space between the levels will make the whole space feel more connected and will be a feature in any home.
Custom Color Shelving
Coloured shelving will make your home library pop with contrast. Go for custom built shelves in bold colours like pink to create visual interest. Moreover for example pink shelves will contrast with blue books and add to the room.
In a Manhattan townhouse, built in shelves painted in metallic teal will be fun. Therefore beautiful woodworking like a window seat will add to the overall look of your reading nook.
These will make your library a colourful and snug space.
Coastal-Themed Libraries
Coastal libraries will be calm and breezy and perfect for a reading room. Built in bookshelves will add value to your home through functionality and design. Closed lower cabinetry in built in bookshelves will provide storage solutions and keep the space tidy.
Light colours and natural textures will add to the coastal feel in home library designs. Decorative items like globes and nautical maps will add personality to a coastal library and be a refreshing space.
Secret Passage Libraries
Secret passage libraries will add an element of surprise and fun to your home library. Hidden libraries will often have bookcases that open up to hidden spaces, to lounges or private offices.
Custom shelves in these libraries may have display shelves and book storage.
These secret bookcases will create a magical and private reading experience and make your home library special.
Dining Room Libraries
Dining room libraries will make the most of the space by combining uses. Multifunctional living spaces are on the rise and turning a dining room into a library is a great example. Built in bookshelves and a bench will turn a rarely used dining room into a snug home library.
Shelf the walls with bookshelves to create a reading space like Jackie Kennedy. These will make dining room libraries practical and beautiful.
Kids Book Nooks
Kids book nooks is designed to inspire imagination and make reading fun for kids. Add colour and theme to create a reading space. Small spaces will make reading more appealing for kids and kid friendly storage that’s accessible will make it easy for them to get their books.
On the other hand adding labels to books and shelves so kids can remember where to put the books back after reading. These will make kids book nooks a fun and functional part of your home library.
Home Office Libraries
Home office libraries will be work and play, a productive and relaxing space. An interior designer will help you make the most of the space for both work and play so it’s functional and beautiful. Storage is key in a home office library to manage books, papers and supplies. Built in shelving is a beautiful solution to store your book collection and save space.
Add items that reflect your interests to boost motivation and creativity. The layout should be workflow and comfort orientated with ergonomic furniture and strategic lighting to make it visible and atmospheric.
Attic Reading Spaces
Attic reading spaces can be a snug retreat. Built in shelves in attic nooks will help to make the most of the space for books and decor. A sunny spot for the window seat will make the space more reading friendly.
Playful decor elements will add to the charm and fun of attic reading spaces. These design elements will make attic reading spaces the perfect place to relax and be inspired.
Biophilic Library Designs
Biophilic library designs will bring nature in, a peaceful reading space. Adding indoor plants to library spaces will add colour and texture.
Plants will calm the mind and make the home library a more enjoyable space.
Plants will soften hard surfaces and make the space more welcoming.
Pothos and Snake Plants are low maintenance and perfect for library spaces. These biophilic elements will create a haven in your home library.
Rustic and Vintage Libraries
Rustic and vintage libraries is lovely and full of character with natural wood shelves and vintage furniture. Reclaimed wood will add to the rustic charm and can be budget friendly. Built in shelving made from distressed wood will add to the rustic look.
Vintage leather chairs will add luxury and comfort to these spaces, wrought iron accents will match the natural wood. Layering textiles like wool or linen will make it snug, will make rustic and vintage libraries beautiful and warm.
Glass Front Bookcases
Glass front bookcases is a beautiful way to display books and decor and keep them dust free. These bookcases will make a social space especially when placed around a large reading table.
Chocolate brown paint colour will go well with glass front bookcases and make the space more beautiful.
Glass front bookcases will protect your collection and add glamour to your home library.
Floor-to-Ceiling Shelving
Floor to ceiling shelving will make the most of the space and create a wow factor in home libraries. These floor to ceiling bookshelves will save space and eliminate the need for expensive extensions. It will create room for big collections, make books easily accessible.
Adding decor elements like framed artwork or personal antiques to floor to ceiling shelves will make the space more personal and beautiful.
Different types of shelving like mobile and stationary will suit different storage needs and preferences, makes floor to ceiling shelving a versatile and lovely option for any library.
Rainbow Bookshelf Organization
Organising books by colour will make a rainbow and make the space more beautiful. Pair the rainbow bookshelf with vintage furniture like a rattan chair and it will be a snug reading spot.
This will be nice and add a playful and artistic touch to your home library.
Scandinavian Library Ideas
Scandinavian library ideas is about simplicity, functionality and calmness. Round coffee tables is common in Scandinavian design, will add to the simplicity and functionality of the space. Big bay windows will let in natural light and create a peaceful atmosphere in a Scandinavian library.
These will be a peaceful and beautiful reading space, will make Scandinavian library a favourite for home libraries.
Budget Libraries
You can have a beautiful home library on a budget. Use IKEA’s products which is affordable and good quality to create a lovely and functional library. Leaning shelves is a budget friendly option for book storage and bright paintings can be a focal point to add charm to the library for a low cost.
These budget friendly solutions will make it easy to design a beautiful home library with some home library ideas without spending a dime.
Industrial Style Bookcases
Industrial bookcases combines metal frames with wooden shelves to make a rustic and modern look. Using contrasting materials like metal and wood will make these bookcases more beautiful.
The design usually has open shelving to allow easy access and display of books and decor. These bookcases will add industrial touch to living room and be storage.
Incorporating Artwork
Adding artwork to your home library will create a contrast to your book collection. Choose artwork that relates to your book collection to make it cohesive. Art will be a focal point in the library, will draw attention and add character to the space.
Adding decor to your shelves will turn a storage into a display and will make your home library look nice.
Creating a Luxe Corner
Create a luxury reading corner will add glamour and coziness to your home library. Maximize natural light in the space will make it bright and snug. Add multiple seating options like a sofa and daybed will make it comfy and versatile. Glossy ceiling will reflect light and create a calm atmosphere.
All these will be a luxurious and beautiful reading space.
Fairytale Reading Lofts
Fairytale reading lofts is a lovely and enchanting space to escape into a book. Key features are exposed brick walls, bookshelves and string lights that will add a rustic and whimsical feel. Open space with high ceiling will make it airy and dreamy.
These will be a fairytale reading lofts a lovely and magical space for reading and relaxing.
Window Seat Libraries
Add a window seat to your home library will make it snug by having a warm nook to read. A window seat will let in natural light which is good for reading comfort and visibility.
Green walls will make the reading nook feel calm and snug. These will be a perfect spot to read your favourite books.
Wrap-Around Shelving
Wrap-around shelving is a great way to use attic space in home libraries. Corner bookshelves will provide floor to ceiling storage and can incorporate built-in features like window seats. White paint and floor to ceiling DIY corner shelving will look nice.
A pale turquoise velvet daybed is a cozy seating within the wrap-around shelves. These will be a nice spot to read for hours.
Monochromatic Library Designs
Monochromatic library will create a calm atmosphere by using one colour. Soft colour like sky blue will make the reading environment more serene. Using different shade of the same colour will add dimension to the design.
Choosing the right furniture, decor and wall colour will make a monochromatic library look cohesive and calm.
Cookbook Libraries
Having a dedicated space for cookbooks in the kitchen will make the most of the space and will look nice. A bookshelf at the end of the kitchen island is a popular way to display cookbooks and will add warmth to the space. A built-in bookcase in the kitchen cabinetry is a nice display area for cookbooks and personal treasures.
Open shelving will make cookbooks easily accessible and look nice. Organizing cookbooks by cuisine or colour on open shelves will look good.
Family Libraries
Family libraries are for use and enjoyment by all family members. Kid-sized seating, accessible shelving and rocking chairs will make family libraries fun in home libraries. Double shelving will allow kids to reach their favourite books easily and will make the library more convenient and fun for them.
These will be a warm and practical space for family to read together.
Modern Library Lighting
Modern library lighting is important to create atmosphere and visibility in home libraries. Lighting within built-in shelves will highlight the decor and will be warm. Layered lighting will add depth and warmth to the library space.
Warm light fixtures with dark green paint will be snug. These lighting will make your home library a nice and cosy space to read.
Guest Bedroom Libraries
Turning a guest room into a cozy library can be a nice space for guests and extra book storage. A wall of bookshelves with books and decor will look nice. Fitting bookcases around the bed will make the most of the space for book display.
Bookcases as headboard will save space and will add personality to the bedroom library. These will be functional and nice for guest bedroom libraries.
Home Library Seating Areas
Seating is important to create a snug reading space in home libraries. Bean bags, floor cushions and comfy armchairs are good for reading nooks. Proper lighting, especially natural light is important to create a pleasant reading environment and reduce eye strain.
Design elements like bold colours, contrasting textures and layered decor will make the seating area feel soulful and nice. These will be comfortable and nice for your home library seating area.
Secret Library Entrances
Secret library entrances adds a sense of surprise and luxury to your home library. A hidden door disguised as a bookshelf can sit with the library and hold books. Some secret bookcase designs has a wireless tilt sensor for quiet entry.
Swapping standard doors with a secret bookcase is a clever way to create a hidden reading room without taking up too much space. These secret entrances will be magical and exclusive in your home library.
Tall Libraries
Tall libraries makes a big impact with its bold and opulent design. Fitting floor-to-ceiling bookcases around windows will make the most of the high ceiling and add visual interest. Books arranged vertically and horizontally on shelves will create more visual texture.
Deep navy for modern bookcases will add depth to the space. Adding decorative elements like objects of different heights and colours with books will make the library look nice.
Sports Memorabilia
Adding sports memorabilia to your home library will make the space personal and family proud. Displaying memorabilia with books will make the library a family space.
Turning an empty room into a fun family space with sports items is celebrating team spirit and achievements. These will be exciting and nice to read.
Light and Dark Contrasts
Light and dark contrasts in your home library will create visual interest and add depth to the space. Dark bookcases for example will make any library look nice. This will draw attention and make the room feel more energetic.
By adding elements that plays with light and dark tones you will get classic and timeless look in your home library.
Small Space Solutions
Utilising small spaces with clever design will create a functional and snug home library. Wall mounted floating shelves is a great way to save floor space and has plenty of storage. Floor-to-ceiling shelving can be adjusted to fit different storage needs, so it’s versatile for small spaces.
Creating window seats in small areas like hallways or landings will add a reading nook without taking up too much space. These will make it possible to have a home library in small spaces.
Trellis Design Elements
Adding trellis design elements to your home library will add more personality. Painted latticework on bookshelves will add character to neutral spaces. Trellis design will turn plain bookshelves into focal points and make the library look nice.
These decorative elements will add elegance and sophistication to your home library, will be unique and nice.
Music and Books
Combining music and books in your home library is a nice mix of interests that will spark creativity and calm. Bookshelves to display literature and music collections will be an interesting and varied library space.
Where books and music live together the library will be a nicer place to be. This combination will add a personal touch to your home library, will be a true reflection of you.
Heirlooms
Adding heirlooms to your home library will create a balanced look that respects the past and present. Mixing heirlooms with modern elements will be harmonious. Update family heirlooms with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware and it will fit with modern decor.
Placing heirlooms in visible areas will make them seen and important in the library space. This thoughtful mix of old and new will add depth to your home library.
Conclusion
Creating a beautiful home library is a combination of creativity, functionality and personal style. From DIY built-in bookshelves to luxurious two-storey libraries, every idea in this collection has its own way to transform your reading space. Whether you have small space or want to make a big statement with colours and design, these 48 home library ideas has endless inspiration. Remember a home library is more than just a book storage, it’s a personal sanctuary where you can hide, relax and indulge in your love for reading. Start designing your dream home library now and go wild!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some cost-effective ways to create a home library?
Creating a vibrant home library doesn’t have to break the bank! Consider DIY built-in shelves with IKEA products and add some leaning shelves and bright artwork for a personal touch.
How can I make a small space functional for a home library?
Maximizing vertical storage with wall-mounted shelves and adding cozy window seats can turn your small space into a functional home library. Consider floor-to-ceiling shelving or freestanding book towers for even more creativity
What are some design tips for a cozy reading corner?
Creating a cozy reading corner is all about comfort and accessibility. Incorporate plush seating, built-in bookshelves for easy access to your favorite reads, and soft lighting to enhance the inviting atmosphere
How can I incorporate a two-story library in my home?
You can create a charming two-story library by incorporating spiral staircases and cozy seating areas on each level, along with open spaces that enhance the connection between floors. This design not only fosters a warm reading atmosphere but also invites you to enjoy your collection fully!
What are some ways to incorporate heirlooms into a modern home library?
Incorporating heirlooms into a modern home library is a wonderful way to create a harmonious blend of old and new. By refreshing heirlooms with paint or new hardware and showcasing them in key spots, you can enhance their significance while maintaining a contemporary feel.
