Are you a bookworm? Do you consider your books as priceless treasures? It is okay if you do because they are the most comforting item you can own. No matter how you feel, you can curl up on the sofa with a quality book, and the new magic world will open in your imagination. Thus, the literature deserves the best care. Plus, they are aesthetically pleasing, and it would be such a pity not to display them. So, you shall have a perfect bookend. Speaking about them, they may give a relaxed vibe to your home. But selecting the correct one is a challenging task. So, we are here to help you! If you keep in mind these few things, you will find the fitting bookend for your library in no time!

What are bookends?

Bookends are objects located at the ends of a row of upright books. So, their job is to keep the book standing straight. It is not a new invention since people use it for centuries now. The benefit of having it is keeping the books in excellent condition. Plus, you will make them on display and in order. We know it a bit of an investment. But it is a one-time payment, no need to re-buy it.

How to pick the right size?

Bookends come in various shapes and sizes. It does not matter if you need it for skinny editions of paperbacks or heavy hardbacks – you will for sure find the fitting model. However, before buying it, you should know how big your books are. And how many books you want to put there! Since that will add in weight too. Your needs will determine the right size of your bookend. Shortest says: bookends should be at least half the size of your literature. So, if you want something strong enough to keep super heavy ones, invest in some that have a width of 4” and a height of 7”. The light ones will be fine with a width of 3” and a height of 5”. Also, think about how often you move your books. If you use them frequently, you may need lightweight ones that are easy to move around.

Our recommendations

Which is the best material for a bookend?

Like with any other piece of furniture, you must think about your preferences. However, there are several points to bear in mind!

First, weight is a critical factor. Bookshelves made of wood tend to be lighter than bookshelves made of stone or metal. Also, if you wish for bookends that will add to the warmness of your home, choose wood. The reason why we recommend wood furniture is low maintenance. All you need to do for cleaning is to wipe down its surface with a wood cleaner. But the cons are it is not so durable material and cannot tolerate direct sunlight. To have durability, go for polyresin. For sure, it will not have any cracks.

If you are not familiar, polyresin is a durable stone-based material. It might remind you of porcelain, but it is heavier and more enduring. And you know how we said it is easy to clean wood? This one is no trouble either! You could use a damp cloth. Just bear in mind to dampen it with water and not harsh chemical cleaners because they could permanently ruin the paint.

The better quality – the better care for your books

When purchasing any furniture, always make sure that they are of the highest quality. So, before you pay for it, check if there are any cracks or stains in them. Bookend should protect your books. Thus the better quality means better care. It would be best if you do not buy used bookends. They are already worn out from carrying other books.

What you really should consider: The stability

The last thing you want is a bookend that will move around. Generally speaking, of course, your bookend should stay straight thanks to gravity. Yet, we are not always that lucky with our purchase! Typically, a heavy model will be more solid than a light one. But it depends on your needs: maybe your books are not massive! However, small and skinny bookend cannot hold tall, heavy books.

Simple L-shaped models are staying put by the weight of the books. But wooden and metal bookends are likely to slide. So, if your model does not have nonskid bottoms, buy stick-on rubber pads. That will keep it in the one place.

The style – there is something for anyone’s taste

The good news is that bookends are available in loads of designs. So, there is something for anyone’s taste and needs!

Are you looking for a piece of furniture for your office? Simple black and white always match well with the seriousness of a work area.

Or, if you want to be more stylish, you could bring in the centuries-old symbol of perfection with these white fleur-de-lis book stands.

If you like the above bookend and you are in love with the french decor, we recommend you to check our article “Guide to decorate your home in a French home décor style”

Are you looking for a furniture piece for your house? In this case, you could go all creative! For example, take some funny monkey bookends! They will never fail to make you smile!

Or maybe you would prefer wolves? They are both stylish and mystic. Plus, after all, we are the generation that grew up on Twilight and is in love with Jacob!

If you already have a theme for your salon, find some that will help you improve that theme.

It should match the standard color, material, and aesthetics of the room.

We recommend you to check our article “Must have Accent Furniture” for more accessories you can add near bookends.

The bottom line

They say you cannot judge a book by its cover. And it is the truth! But can you condemn the person by their bookends? Absolutely! People’s personality comes through the design they pick. As bookends will be on display, you will select something you like, and further, it will tell a lot about your personality. Happy reading!