bookcases

A bookcase is a piece of furniture consisting of horizontal shelves used to store, organize, and display books and related items. It can be freestanding or built into a wall or cabinet, and shelves may be fixed or adjustable to accommodate different sizes of volumes.

Historically, practical shelving for books appeared in Europe during the late Middle Ages, evolving with increasing book production. By the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, standardized bookcases became widely produced in a range of styles, with barrister bookcases—stackable sections with glass doors—popular in offices for protecting law books.

Types include freestanding cases, wall-mounted cases, modular or stackable units, barrister bookcases, and built-in or recessed designs. Some models are purely utilitarian, while others are designed to display decorative items in addition to books.

Materials and features: Most bookcases are made of solid wood, plywood, or engineered wood with veneers; contemporary versions use metal frames with wood shelves or glass. Common woods include oak, maple, cherry, and pine. Shelves may be adjustable, and some models include glass doors, drawers, or cabinets. Weight capacity varies with materials, shelf thickness, and mounting.

Design considerations and dimensions: Choose a size and style that fit the room’s scale and lighting. Typical depths are around 10–12 inches; shelf spacing should accommodate the intended collection, with taller units offering more display space. For safety, tall or heavy bookcases should be secured to the wall to prevent tipping.

Care and maintenance: Dust regularly, avoid excess moisture, and use protective pads to prevent damage to finishes. Inspect for warping or loosening hardware and tighten as needed.