How to Create a Cozy Library at Home
Books can take you to faraway places and different times, and reading them is an ideal way to relax and escape. So why not create the perfect environment for storing books and reading in your home? Libraries are wonderful places, but they aren’t always open, and you can’t always cozy up with a blanket and coffee in a public library. If you crave more reading time, a home library could be a worthwhile investment for you.
Who should create a home library?
If you fall into one of these categories, you could benefit from creating your own library.
Book Lovers
This is an obvious one, but if you love books, maybe even just the smell of old books and the charm of having them on shelves, then don’t wait another minute—get to it!
Collectors
If you have rare collectible items you’ve always wanted to display, this is your chance to shine. Rare books, antiques, and everything in between would make for perfect additions to a home library.
Creatives
Creative people often rely on an encouraging environment to help them brainstorm and create freely without distraction. A library could be a space to fill with inspiration, such as drawing books, writing guides, and music sheets. You’ll never want to leave the artistic atmosphere of your library.
Families
Keeping kids interested in their education is important. Make learning fun by creating a home library geared toward everyone in your household. Teach kids about reading, caring for books, and organizing them. Let them decorate their own corner or shelf at an appropriate height, and reward them with new books when they keep their shelf in order. Be sure to use this space, too, because children learn by example.
Location ideas
The location of your library is just as important as what you fill it with, so here are a few guidelines for picking the perfect place in your home.
A room with adequate wall space
The key to any successful at home library is proper storage. You’ll need a room with clean walls free of clutter. If you have an unused or lightly-used room with built-in shelving, consider transforming this space as you won’t need to install additional shelves.
A room with a view
It can be helpful to set up your library in a room with windows to let in natural light and have a view of the outdoors. However, if you’d prefer a darker, more secluded space, be sure the room has enough outlets for a few task lights.
A room to share with an office space
Some people might not have an entire room to dedicate to a home library. If this is the case for you, consider putting your library in your home office. An office and a library make sense together since you can also use this space to keep books you need for work. If you’re a teacher who is instructing virtually, this is a no-brainer as a resource and great virtual background.
What to include
Your home library can be as small, large, detailed, or simple as you want it to be. Keep these essentials in mind to make creating this space worthwhile.
Shelving
The most important part of your library storage will be the shelves. There are different styles of shelving to consider, including free-standing, floating, and built-in. Choose your shelves according to your budget and style. If you’re indecisive about layout, go with free-standing shelving you’ll be able to rearrange. For a modern and unique look, invest in a few floating shelves to highlight your favorite novels. If you have your heart set on a particular layout and style, choose built-in shelves that will last longer.
Seating
The style and the amount of seating you include is a personal preference. Whether you’re looking to accommodate a few friends or want a solo space, make sure the seating is comfortable. If it’s not comfortable, you won’t be able to relax and you’ll end up relocating. Consider getting a recliner so you can really kick back.
Lighting
Setting the tone of the room is all in the lighting. You’ll need accent and ambient lighting to create an inviting space. Give your space a warm, cozy feel with incandescent bulbs. LED lights are great too, but they tend to have a colder feel to them. Use floor and table lamps directly over your seating area to ensure you have well-lit spots to read.
Color schemes
If you’re looking for a traditional look, stain your shelves a dark color and add leather seating. For a modern feel, paint the shelves white or black, and add furniture in your favorite accent color completed with an accent pillow or two.
Decorations
Infuse your personality into the library with pictures, artwork, collections, and anything else you want to display. This is a space to call your own. You deserve to love what is around you in the room, so consider displaying your antiques or favorite books with spotlights and stands.
A home library should be a personal oasis to escape and have the resources to pursue your interests. Get started with these tips—your dream library awaits!