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CSN Library Furniture

Bookcase Buying Guide

A Helpful Guide for Selecting Bookcases

A Bookcase for Every Need The developing role of the library has created a set of new and complex challenges for those delivering library buildings and services. Libraries provide an increasing range of different services, using a multitude of media, and reach a more diverse audience than ever before. As much as libraries have grown and changed, there is still a tried and true element that they can not function without: appropriate organization systems for the media that they offer.

Magazines, newspapers, books and journals, all require the necessary shelving needs for storage and accessibility. Efficiently using space and accommodating to the needs of diverse groups are among the challenges of designing and stocking a library. At CSN Library Furniture, we have done our best to not only provide a wide range of bookcases to accommodate all of the possible needs of your library, but have also created a step by step buying guide to help narrow down the choices you'll make in your bookcase buying endeavor. Consider these steps when buying bookcases and shelving for your library:
Decide where your bookcase will be situated
Choosing a spot for your bookcase is the first step in determining the right piece to fit in your space, and will establish what type of bookcase will best suit your needs. Make sure to measure not only the height and width of your wall space, but also the maximum depth available; this way the bookcase will not block foot traffic if it is situated near a doorway or common area. We offer a number of different types of bookcases compatible with your space:

Standard - Made in a number of different heights and widths, standard bookcases sit flat against the wall and usually feature adjustable shelving deep enough to hold standard-depth books.

Corner – These space-saving bookcases are triangular in structure and may feature rounded shelves. While they do not hold as many books as a standard case, they are perfect for making use of otherwise wasted space and can often hold hard-to-store objects.

Barrister Bookcase Barrister – Made popular by legal and government offices, these bookshelves are usually stackable to add more space as needed and also feature both clear doors that easily flip up and slide back out of sight when access is needed. Designed to fit both books and binders, these are classic style and high function all in one.

Bookcase Walls – Simulate a built-in and create a large storage area for not only books but for multimedia equipment and display items as well. While many of these wall units have components that also stand alone, a large area is needed to assemble the entire unit, giving it a built-in feel and a library atmosphere.

Children's Bookcases – Made of durable materials and shorter heights, these bookcases are especially designed for a children's library or play area. Featuring bright finishes or mobile options, these bookcases engage children and help foster their interest in reading.
Determine the bookcase features you need
Metal and Wood finish Bookcase with Open Design Establishing the specific design features you require will help you to narrow down your bookcase search. Decide what kinds of items you are storing, and look for the features you need:

  • Adjustable shelves or doors to maximize display or storage options
  • Stackable or cube bookcases create a modular, customized design and sleek effect.
  • Metal, wood, and combination bookcases anchor the piece to the room.
  • Finishes available in light wood, dark wood, black, white, or custom colors create the perfect atmosphere and complement your other furniture.

Choose the perfect bookcase style
We offer bookcases in a wide variety of designs and materials which you can mix and match to fit the appropriate setting. Don't make the mistake of assuming that bookcases won't work for you because they are all traditional - we can help you match up your personal tastes to a number of styles:

Barrister Bookcase Traditional - Featuring darker wood grain finishes, crown molding, carved details, or elegant accents, traditional bookcases provide grand, luxurious design.

Contemporary - Influenced by industrial manufacturing and organic form, these bookcases feature smooth finishes, asymmetrical design, clean lines, or open structures.

Transitional - While boasting the same rich colors and wood grains of traditional bookcases, these pieces will have simpler details that bridge the gap between grand tradition and sparse modernism.

Office/Industrial - Designed for efficient, durable use, office bookcases are normally large and deep. Heavyweight wood and welded metal make these models perfect for high-traffic use.

Kid-friendly - Featuring bright colored finishes, traditional shapes or mobile designs, kid's bookcases are designed especially for a child's first book collection.

We hope that after using this guide you are able to choose the perfect bookcase configuration. However, if you still have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to give us a call PHONE NUM – our staff at STORE NAME is always happy to help!
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CSN Library Furniture, a division of CSN Stores LLC, 800 Boylston St, Suite 1600, Boston, MA 02199

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