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Home Library Ideas to Create Your Very Own Smart Home

If you love to read and have a nice collection of books you value, why not create a home library or study where you can stylishly house your books? It doesn’t require as much space as you think, so check out these home library ideas to create a smart space in your home.

What you’ll need to execute these home library ideas

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A large and vibrant library with plenty of seating and a vintage wood ladder to access the taller shelves. Image: Kvart Interior

You don’t need a lot of space to create an awesome home library, although taking a room over would be ideal. Besides your favorite collection of books, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bookcases or wall shelves: This is the key item in your home library. Choose the bookcase or wall shelves of your choice. For a sleeker, built-in look, choose closet cabinetry that also features doors, drawers and other storage options.
  • Lighting: For a high-end look, add lighting for different purposes. A reading lamp is a must. But don’t forget to add accent lighting that lights up the shelves or washes the bookcase wall with illumination. If installing recessed lights isn’t possible, consider using battery-operated LED lights and light strips.
  • Seating: A comfortable reading chair and footstool, a bench or a built-in reading nook are all great home library ideas. If you’re converting a guest room, a sofa or futon with a pullout bed could work as seating and a guest bed.
  • A desk (optional): If you want your home library to double as a study or workspace, consider adding a desk, if space allows.
  • A ladder (optional): Depending on the height of your shelving, a library ladder is an awesome design feature that’s also functional.
  • Accessories: Don’t forget to add wall art, flowers or plants that personalize the space. Special objects like vases or small sculptures can also be placed in the shelving to break up all the books.

Now that you have an idea of what you need, check out these stunning home library ideas for inspiration.

Home library ideas for small or awkward spaces

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Take advantage of the unused area under a stairwell by adding shelving to create a small library section. Image: Marc Koehler Architect

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A small, awkward room has been converted into a home study and library with some built-ins and wall-mounted units. Image: Sanya Polescuk

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home library bookcases

A narrow bookcase includes a long, low wood shelf that doubles as a bookcase and bench. Image: Stephen Moser Architect

Home libraries featuring a built-in daybed

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If all you have to work with is one wall, add a built-in reading nook for relaxing. Image: Marie Kalok

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A small narrow room features bookcases on either side with a daybed, framed by the window with a gorgeous view. Image: Mom Spark

Home libraries that make the most of the space

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This studio may be small in square feet, but it features tall ceilings that the homeowner has cleverly taken advantage of. Image: Egue y Seta

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Floating shelves are mounted on the swing doors of this home library to maximize book space. Image: M&B Interiors

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A small and dark hallway next to the kitchen has been converted into an inviting library and lounge with some built-in bookcases and a couple of chairs. Image: Stephen Fletcher Architects

Home libraries featuring unique shelves

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Square box shelves were mounted at an angle for a unique diamond pattern design. Image: Gabellini Sheppard

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Narrow 8″ deep shelves with no backing keep the room feeling open and airy. Image: Redmond Aldrich Design

Home libraries with a custom built-in look

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A sleek and contemporary home library features ebony wood and a luxurious lounge for reading. Image: Inlite

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Strategically arranged books add color and visual interest to this home library, framed by the crown molding of the entry. Image: Bowerbird Interiors

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Pops of color and the large glass sliding door create a cheerful and bright home library. Image: Stefan Hohloch

Home libraries that double as a home study or office

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Adding a desk to a home library creates a double duty space for reading and work. Image: Upstairs Studio Architecture

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