Your source for decorative leather bound books 'by the foot' - Old used books for Interior Designers, Decorators and the Public

Displaying Books

When working with decorative books, proper display is crucial. If not exhibited appropriately, designer books run the risk of looking drab. To create a library that is warm, inviting and impressive the books must be displayed with care. As beautiful works of art, decorative books are designed to impress. Thus, it is your job to display them appropriately.

Effective book display is dependent upon two things: spacing and selection. When purchasing decorative books, don't buy volumes that are identical. Variety is important when displaying books. Like an impressive work of art, bookcases need color and diversity in order to be interesting. Thus, purchase books of all shapes, sizes and colors.

Don't be afraid to mix old with new. If you have a dozen decorative antique hardbacks and two dozen intellectually valuable paperbacks, don't hesitate to display them together. In exchange for adding authenticity to your decorative collection, the antique books will make your paperbacks appear more valuable. And again, the diversity will add unique flavor to the shelves.

Add some spice to your display. Arranging books side-by-side is certainly orderly but not too creative. Try alternating side-by-side arrangements with stacked displays. This will make your bookcase more interesting. For something even more unique, display non-decorative books backwards, ornamental volumes forwards, and then alternate shelves. When it comes to book display, there are thousands of options. All you have to do is use your imagination. Don't be afraid to think outside the box! The great thing about book displays is that they can easily be changed.