page 2
	2003 Lake Forest showhouse penthouse suite: Keep books dust free behind glass doors. Photo c.2003 G. Morton, About.com    Email to a friend  Printer friendly version More of this Feature • Page 2: Kitchens and Categories Related Resources • Storage Solutions • Shelving Links • Fifteen Uses for a Chest Bookstore • Buy Decorating Books • The Impatient Decorator • 28 Tips for Hanging Art About Interior Decorating Subscribe to the Free Newsletter Your Email Address:

Categorize a collection

More tips on arranging, displaying, and storing books.

Side Table -- Stack a set of very large books on the floor next to a chair, then top with a small piece of glass to use as an end table. Place the books in a column or fan them around for a more interesting look.

Categorize -- To manage a large book collection, sort books by category. Keep cookbooks together in the kitchen, craft books near your crafting area, travel books in the family room, and reference books in the den.

Kitchen Connection -- Though not as accessible as other shelves, kitchen soffit areas (the space on top of kitchen cabinets up to the ceiling) can often be used to display a mix of cookbooks and kitchen collectibles. Arrange items in groupings with plants, baskets, bottles, or vintage kitchen items for a interesting display.

Cookbook Display -- Kitchens with a lot of counterspace can often spare a small area to hold cookbooks. Place them in a bookrack or between 2 sturdy bookends or crocks. This is best done in an area that is used for a desk or storage so the books won't get stained during food prep.

Vertical Limit -- Go with the usual method of displaying books, by setting them vertically on bookshelves in rows.

Title View -- Place stacks of books sideways on shelves so they are horizontal and titles are easily readable. It's a great idea to alternate vertical with horizontal stacks so the shelf display looks a bit more interesting.

Storage Tip -- When purchasing new or used furniture, evaluate it for its storage capacity. Instead of buying a piece with a tabletop and four legs, instead look for a cabinet with shelves, drawers, or doors. It will hold more and look neater. Also, consider the height of your books when purchasing furniture. Very tall books will need to be set flat unless the bookshelves are adjustable.

Don't Do This -- It's generally not a good idea to store books in a musty garage or damp basement as they will begin to smell musty over time and become damaged.

All Decorating Articles