Some people dream of diving into a huge pile of money like Scrooge McDuck, others dream of running away to a tropical destination, but book lovers dream of one day having a home library. Who needs a tropical vacation when you have a wall-to-wall collection of stories and fantasy worlds that you can dive into at any moment.
If having a home library is your dream, now is the time to make it a reality. We have rounded up the top tips to help you create your dream home library on a budget. Don’t forget to add a few new literary members to the family. Our recent Local Business Feature, Devils in the Detail, are an excellent resource for top-quality preloved books at affordable prices.
Pick a spot
First and foremost is choosing a spot. While you don’t need a special room, it is best to select an area that is well-lit and ventilated. However, be careful, as high levels of direct sunlight will sun bleach the spines of your books. If you’re limited on space, a corner spot in your living room is an excellent choice that’s out of the way.
Plan your budget
If your goal is to have custom-built floor-to-ceiling shelves, there are ways to do this on the cheap. A growing trend on social media is to combine low-cost pre-built units (Ikea is always a popular choice) into one large bookcase or source used bookcases online and spruce them up with a bit of paint. Alternatively, don’t be afraid to start slow with a few multimedia shelves and build up as you go along.
Organise your collection
Once your shelves are up and ready, go through your book collection and filter out the books you love from the ones you don’t. This is an excellent time to prioritise which books can fit into your designated space and which you can set aside for storage, sale or exchange.
Spice up with decor
A little decor can go a long way. Something as simple as a plant (real or faux) is an excellent way to add a bit of colour and life. Throw in a picture frame or two, squeeze in some beautiful candles between the books, and finish off with a little ambient lighting.
Don’t forget about seating
While the bookcases themselves will be the focal point, a stylish seating area can turn a simple bookcase into a home library. If you’re working with limited space, a comfy armchair with an ottoman, a chaise lounge or a window bench is an excellent choice. Toss in a bright throw blanket and a plant or two, and you’re on your way to a beautiful space.
If you’re looking to add to your growing book collection, visit Devils in the Detail on their Facebook page or Amazon page. With a vast assortment of preloved books for sale, you’re sure to find a few treasures for your home library.
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