Finding space for a library in your home is easy; you just have to know where to look. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

1.  Under a staircase is a good place for a moderately sized home library. You can build bookcases and audio-visual storage files, creating a built-in look, and a small desk can be added for processing your items into your catalog.
2. If you have stairs with a good-sized landing, the landing can be a small library. If it has a window, build a window seat and surround it with storage files for your items. You can use the space under the window seat for larger volumes. Use the stud space to create more room, and sconces for lighting.
3. If you have a loft area in a two-story home, convert the loft into your library. Narrow or small lofts are rarely used for anything except decorative furniture, and books are definitely decorative additions to your home.
4. Many apartments have a living room and dining room combination. Surround the dining area with bookshelf units, and your dining set becomes the library table when you do not have guests over for dinner.
5. Spare bedrooms are the time-honored solution for those who want a larger home library.
6. Here are a few more, quick ideas:

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  • Large hallways: The march of books along the wall are beautiful to behold.
  • Multiple rooms: Who says all your library items have to be in one room?
  • Home Offices make an elegant library.
  • A family room with a fireplace, surrounded by built-in shelving, is great. Fireplaces and bookcases are meant for each other.

Look for space and you will find it. I once saw a library in a very small cabin aboard a cruisiing sailboat, complete with audio and video equipment plus a comfortable reading seat.

 Copyright 2009, John A. Butler, All Rights Reserved