How to Create a Home Library.
As we’re living in the midst of a digital age, it’s no surprise that we rely on technology for most things. However, when it comes to reading, there is no feeling quite like having a book in your hands. Reading offers a sense of escapism and indulging in a good book is one of life’s most enjoyable ways to spend leisure time. Additionally, for children, reading is a crucial part of their development. Studies have shown that reading to young children is vital in improving their cognitive development, as it provides them with greater knowledge of the world they see- understanding what they see, hear and read. As reading is so beneficial to us, perhaps the notion of having a home library should become the norm? For book lovers, having a home library is the ultimate dream. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also are functional as they grant immediate access to your favourite collection of books from the comfortable space of your home. Home libraries are a room of splendour that can be designed any way you wish and are a great way to add value to your property. Here at We Buy Any House, we have compiled our top tips to help you create the perfect home library.
Step One- Talking with Your Family/ People You Live With:
Although the idea of a home library may seem idyllic, you must accept that this may not be everyone’s desired way of decorating your home. Your idea of a home library may not coincide with the reality of your home, so it’s important to discuss it with your family or the people you live with. If your library is going to be for personal use, then ensure that this is fine with everyone else in the house. Alternatively, if it’s going to be a shared space, then this is a great time to share design ideas.
Step Two- Considering Your Budget:
When it comes to any renovation project, the financial aspect must be planned out thoroughly. You need to work out and discuss how much exactly you are willing to spend on your home library. Creating a list of financial priorities that will cover the essential parts of your home library is critical- as you don’t want to end up overspending or with an incomplete project.
Step Three- Choosing the Right Spot:
The first step in creating a home library is to choose the right spot to place your library. Ideally, you will need a spot that is well-lit and ventilated, to reduce the risk of the books becoming damaged. Additionally, you will want to ensure that the library is in an area of the home that is relatively noise-free, as then you will be able to read in peace.
Step Four- Making the Spot Accessible:
Whichever location in your house that you choose, it’s important to ensure that it is accessible, approachable and most importantly, convenient for everyone to get to (if it’s a shared space). This means for those who have disability struggles and young children, the room should be established somewhere where they have easy access. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the space has comfortable furniture, so people can sit there leisurely and enjoy the space.
Step Five- Deciding on Storage and Shelves:
Depending on your budget, you will have to decide how you are going to store the books in the library. The beauty of interior design is that there is a huge variety of choice, and although organisation is a contributing factor, creativity and imagination are key. Whether you decide to have floor-to-ceiling shelving, converted wooden cartons or old trunks, you may want to consider how the design of your library coincides with the rest of your homes’ interior design.
Step Six- Remove Distractions:
If your library is going to replace an already designed space, such as a second lounge area or den, then it’s worthwhile taking the time to remove any distractions from that space. Having things such as TV’s or gaming consoles in the room can be a huge distraction and take away from the serenity and peace of the room, therefore it’s a good idea to ensure the space is quiet and free from the distractions of technological devices.
Step Seven- Pay Attention to Detail:
When it comes to creating a home library, the little details matter the most. It’s important to take the little things into consideration, as ultimately, they can not only affect the design of the room, but the condition of your books. These include things such as:
- Making the most of vertical space. Although your ceilings may not be as tall as the ones in public libraries, it’s still important to make the most of your vertical space. Tall shelving is a great way to store your books neatly, while also saving floor space to make that a comfortable reading area,
- Book organisation. It’s important to think about how you want to organise your books. Whether you’re thinking about by genre, author, colour or release date, having some organisation will stop the room from looking a little chaotic.
- Dividing space. This is especially important if your library room isn’t the biggest space. You don’t want the room to look overrun with books (ironic), so a great way to avoid this is by ensuring that the reading space is not overrun or obstructed with shelving, as this can make the room look smaller.
- Installing curtains and a dust film. Investing in a floor length curtain will allow you to make parts of the shelving you don’t want visible, hidden, and the dust film will aid in protecting your books from dust and ruining their condition.
- Add personality to make it inviting. The least desirable libraries are those that are cold and uninviting, so it’s a good idea to personalise the space. From comfortable seating, ensuring the space is warm and adding touches like a soft rug, air fresheners and pictures, you want the library to be a space in which someone will want to stay and read. However, it’s important to strike the right balance, as you don’t want the room to seem overwhelming with distractions.
This article was written by a quick house sale company We Buy Any House. If you’re wondering “how can I sell my house fast?”, head to the We Buy Any House website for more information relating to all property related enquiries.