Menu
Hallmark movies celebrate books and reading, with many featuring romantic storylines and literature allusions. Characters who love books, like authors and bookstore owners, are often highlighted. Inspired by this passion for reading, I created a DIY library room for my daughter and me to enjoy peaceful reading.
This tutorial provides steps to create an aesthetically pleasing and practical reading space with a DIY bookshelf.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure and privacy policy.
The first step in creating a library room in your house is to determine the size and shape of the bookshelf. You can use an old bookshelf, or you can purchase one from a store. I purchased Billy Bookcases from IKEA.
Consider the materials that you’ll need for your bookcase. You’ll need to consider your budget and the type of material you want to use before you start shopping. Once you have your materials, you can start to build your bookcase and add the finishing touches.
Trim:
Electrical Outlets:
Lighting
Once you have determined the size and shape, you can begin to measure and cut the wood. You will need a a drill, a hammer, and screws to complete the project.
Once the pieces are cut, you can begin to assemble the bookshelf. Start by attaching the sides of the bookshelf, making sure that the pieces fit together snugly. You can then use the drill to attach the shelves to the sides of the bookshelf. Make sure to use the screws in the appropriate places to ensure stability and strength.
For my Ikea Billy bookcases, I unloaded the boxes and built the shelves according to directions with the extensions measuring floor to ceiling, with a lot of help from my Dad.Â
Move existing electrical outlets higher and add electric wire.
Then, add dimmer switch for lights. Install either a single pole for one switch or a multiple pole dimmer switch to control the lighting in the room.
Position and arrange 31-inch and 15-inch cabinets in the room to create the desired number of shelves.
Pre-wire cabinets for 5 ‘picture lamps’ connected to a single dimmer switch.
Order individual door hinges and assemble doors easily with step-by-step instructions.
Install trim on top of bookshelf gaps and separations with nails. Then use spackle to fill in nail heads and any gaps between the trim lines. Once the spackle is dry, sand the joints until they are seamless. Wipe away sanding debris with a damp cloth.
Before painting the trim, apply paint masking tape. Afterwards, use enamel paint with the same color as the bookshelves for the trim.
No matter how you choose to create your bookshelves or library room, the important thing is to make sure it’s a place where you can enjoy your books and quiet time. Choose a spot in your house that’s peaceful and comfortable. This way, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the world of books and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Make sure to read my subsequent post about what to display on your bookshelf!
