Decorating Rooms A Home Library is the Perfect Place for Curling Up with a Book Check out these nine home libraries for inspiration to create your perfect reading space, whether it's an entire room or a cozy corner. By Jessica Bennett Jessica Bennett Jessica Bennett is an editor, writer, and former digital assistant home editor at BHG. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Updated on September 5, 2023 Trending Videos Close this video player Photo: Werner Straube For anyone who loves to read, a home library is the ideal spot to start the day or relax in the evening. Whether it's an entire room lined with books or a cozy reading nook, this space should be a quiet place to unwind. These home library ideas will help you carve out space for your reading retreat. The 14 Best Reading Chairs to Help You Furnish Your Cozy Reading Nook 01 of 09 Home Library Nook Kim Cornelison If you don't have an entire room to spare, look to unused corners or nooks that could serve as a small home library. For example, transform the landing at the top of a staircase into a reading area by adding a comfortable lounge chair and book storage. Plug in a floor lamp for nighttime reading, and set a small table near the chair for a cup of tea or books-in-progress. 02 of 09 Living Room Library Helen Norman Take advantage of built-in shelving to turn a corner of your living room into a functional home library. Use the shelves to organize books by color for a fun rainbow effect, and add task lighting by installing a sconce on an adjacent wall. Position a chair you can sink into nearby with a small stool or ottoman where you can kick up your feet. 03 of 09 Home Library Ladder Werner Straube A classic feature in home libraries, a rolling ladder includes wheels and a track installed above that helps it roll smoothly across bookcases. Practically speaking, a ladder provides access to the highest shelves, but it can also elevate the room as a decorative accent. Choose a contrasting finish that stands out against the walls, or match the ladder to shelving for a seamless look. Academia Room Decor Is Perfect for Book and Vintage Lovers 04 of 09 Vintage Home Library Furniture David Tsay Source furniture from thrift stores, antique shops, and flea markets for a more affordable alternative to built-in home library shelves. Vintage barrister cabinets, traditionally used to hold heavy law books, form a small library area in this sunroom. The individual bookcases don't match exactly, but an oak top installed across all three makes them look like a single unit. 05 of 09 Kids' Home Library Helen Norman Carve out a spot where kids can practice their reading skills or enjoy a bedtime story. Stash books on low shelves easily within reach of small hands, and use stools, child-sized chairs, or floor pillows for seating. Editor's Tip Always secure heavy casework to the wall to prevent it from accidentally tipping over. 06 of 09 Home Office Library Joyelle West A home office can easily double as a home library with the right storage and furniture. Install built-in shelves or position bookcases along one wall to hold your book collection, office supplies, and decorative accessories. Bring in a comfortable chair (not your regular desk chair) to help distinguish between work and relaxation time. 07 of 09 Home Library Shelving Nathan Schroder Show off your extensive home library with shelves that stretch from floor to ceiling and wall to wall. A vast array of colorful spines will likely form the dominant design element in the room, so choose neutral paint colors and furnishings to avoid an overly busy look. What Color Is Taupe? How to Decorate with This Classic Neutral 08 of 09 Home Library Furniture John Granen In a space intended for relaxing, comfortable furniture is a must. Start with a cushy armchair, and layer in plush pillows and a blanket for extra coziness. A small ottoman or pouf can be a footrest and a spot to set your current read. How to Make a Pretty Pouf Ottoman for Less Than $50 09 of 09 Cozy Home Library Stacy Zarin Goldberg Dark, moody colors feel especially fitting for a sophisticated home library. Combine saturated colors like navy blue, charcoal, or hunter green with rich wood finishes for a warm, traditional look. To balance the dark shade, install library sconces above shelves and employ floor lamps and tabletop fixtures for reading light. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit