Homewares And Lamps For The Home Library
After a lifetime of accumulating books many people have collected an awe inspiring collection that is crying out for organisation. Others work in an environment that calls for many volumes of reference. Some people just order books in bulk so that they look smart when potential clients stop by. Whether you are an avid reader or have a Master's degree in the library sciences there are many great reasons to build a library. This can be as simple as a wall shelf filled with books or row after row of shelving units in a cavernous space similar to what one would see at the library of a prestigious educational institution. In the home or place of business there is no better luxury for the lover of words than a well-stocked library filled with comfortable seating. To create a reading space you will need books, shelving units, a work space, wholesale lamps and accent tables, seating and decorative items.
Shelving Units
The key to organising a large quantity of books is plenty of shelving. In a real library the books would be categorised by type and then arranged in alphabetical order. But outside of an institutional setting many decorators prefer to use books as part of the overall design. This could mean stacking them according to height or filing them by the colour of the binding and jacket. The even flat surface of volumes of books and magazines makes them an easy way to play with different lines and levels. It is sort of like stacking toy blocks as a young child. They can also be easily rearranged for a fresh look.
Work Space
Libraries make excellent study environments for scholars young and old. If space is an issue it may be a good idea to build a library into the same room as an office. Either way there should be a sturdy desk or table for people to work at. A flat surface and an upright chair have been proven to make more efficient work spaces than sleep inducing sofas or padded chairs. When reading you make take up a sudden inspiration that needs to be written down and for that you will have a table and chair. A writing table is an important addition to any library that goes well with all of the big words in books.
Table Lamps
It is difficult to read and write without proper lighting which can be a terrible strain on the eyes. Failing a source of natural light such as a window, many scholars prefer to burn the midnight oil. In this case they would definitely need some kind of table lamp. Table lamps are versatile pieces of home décor that can be placed on many flat surfaces. On the desk a table lamp would be sure to adequately light the study area. One might also place a lamp on an accent table near a seating area for when you want to read in comfort. Even a mantle or wall shelf would be suitable for holding a table lamp.
Seating
A comfortable seating area is a must have for any fully equipped library or reading area. Many types of books and magazines are more suited to quiet reflection in a comfortable chair. Lighter reads or anything that is done for personal enjoyment is better left to the sofa. Such is the sitting area for a library which could be a simple chair or a full set up similar to what is used in the living room. Generally this will consist of a couch flanked by one or more chairs and accent tables. Side tables, coffee tables and hallway tables are all excellent ways to hold up stacks of books.
Decorative Items
Decorative items are not really necessary but it is nice to fill the room with bits of décor that match the theme of the room. For a learning environment consider using educational wall hangings such as maps or the periodical table. In many cases canvas prints or other works of art hang on the walls of libraries. Exotic curios and other trinkets that stir the imagination should line the shelves or be displayed under glass. To pull it all together, line the floor with a rug that feels soft underfoot. All of this combines with the books and furniture to create a library setting that is conducive to reading and relaxation.
