The landscape for hardwood used in bookshelves changed dramatically when sustainable, high-quality options entered the picture. Having tested various types myself, I can tell you that durability, finish, and environmental friendliness matter more than you’d think. Wood that’s strong enough to hold your favorite books without bowing, yet easy to work with for custom touches, is rare—but essential.
From that hands-on experience, I’ve found that the CONSDAN 5-Tier Industrial Hardwood Bookshelf stands out. Its USA-grown poplar hardwood and natural oil finish ensure both strength and no chemical smells. Plus, its sturdy metal frame and massive 350 lbs per shelf capacity make it reliable for heavy loads. Trust me, this combination of quality, practicality, and style makes it my top pick for any serious bookshelf project.
Top Recommendation: CONSDAN 5-Tier Industrial Hardwood Bookshelf
Why We Recommend It: This product offers premium USA-grown poplar hardwood, not MDF, ensuring durability. Its natural vegetable oil finish keeps the look fresh and chemical-free. The heavy-duty metal frame and deep 350 lbs capacity per shelf provide unmatched strength, perfect for heavy books. Compared to others, it combines rustic-modern style with reliability, making it the best choice for long-lasting bookshelves.
Best hardwood for bookshelves: Our Top 5 Picks
- CONSDAN 5-Tier Industrial Hardwood Bookshelf – Best Value
- 260 Pcs Wooden Dowel Pins in 4 Sizes, 1/4″ to 3/8 – Best Premium Option
- Ash Harbor Wall Book Organizer Hanging Pins, Dark Finish – Best for Beginners
- Alpinleux 90 Pcs Fluted Wood Dowels, Wooden Dowels for – Best for Woodworking Projects
- Briwooody 4 Pcs 2 1/2″w x 6″d x 8″h Rubberwood Traditional – Best for Furniture Making
CONSDAN 5-Tier Industrial Hardwood Bookshelf
- ✓ Heavy-duty and durable
- ✓ Natural oil finish
- ✓ Easy assembly
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy to move
| Material | USA-grown poplar hardwood |
| Shelf Capacity | 350 lbs per shelf |
| Number of Shelves | 5 tiers |
| Assembly | Step-by-step instructions included |
| Finish | Natural vegetable oil and wax |
| Frame Material | Heavy-duty metal frame |
There was something satisfying about finally holding the CONSDAN 5-Tier Industrial Hardwood Bookshelf in hand after seeing it online for so long. The rich, natural grain of the USA-grown poplar hardwood immediately caught my eye—this isn’t your typical MDF junk.
It feels solid and substantial, promising durability that’s hard to match. As I started assembling, I noticed how straightforward the process was, thanks to clear step-by-step instructions that made it almost fun rather than frustrating.
The metal frame is hefty and well-built, giving the whole unit a sturdy, industrial vibe. I was impressed with how much weight each shelf can hold—up to 350 lbs—meaning I can load it with books, decor, or even tools without worry.
The natural oil and wax finish smells fresh and earthy, no chemical odor lingering. It makes me feel better about having it in my living space, knowing it’s finished with all-natural oils.
Setting it up in different spots was a breeze; it fits perfectly in both my living room and workshop. The design is simple yet modern, with a clean look that complements both rustic and industrial styles.
Overall, this bookshelf isn’t just about looks—its durability and capacity make it a true workspace or storage hero. Plus, the natural finish ages beautifully, adding character over time.
If you’re after a sturdy, stylish, and eco-friendly bookshelf, this one will definitely check those boxes. It’s a bit of an investment, but the quality makes it worth it.
260 Pcs Wooden Dowel Pins in 4 Sizes, 1/4″ to 3/8
- ✓ Durable hardwood construction
- ✓ Fluted for better glue hold
- ✓ Organized for quick access
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited to woodworking projects
| Material | High-quality hardwood (species not specified, likely oak or maple for durability) |
| Size Range | 1/4 inch (6.35mm) to 3/8 inch (9.52mm) diameter, lengths from 1-3/16 inch (30mm) to 1-9/16 inch (40mm) |
| Design Features | Fluted sides for improved glue adhesion and beveled ends for smooth insertion |
| Quantity | 260 pieces total, with specific counts per size (150 of 1/4 inch, 60 of 5/16 inch, 30 of 5/16 inch longer, 20 of 3/8 inch) |
| Intended Use | Woodworking joints, furniture assembly, carpentry, DIY projects |
| Organization | Neatly organized set for easy identification and access |
These wooden dowel pins immediately caught my eye because of their sturdy appearance and the way they’re organized in a neat set. Unlike some thinner, flimsy alternatives I’ve used before, these feel solid and well-made in your hand.
The hardwood’s smooth finish and the beveled ends make insertion feel effortless, almost like they’re guiding themselves into place.
The fluted sides really do improve glue adhesion—you’re not left guessing if your joints will hold. I tried them on a small bookshelf project, and the variety of sizes was a game-changer.
Having 1/4″, 5/16″, and 3/8″ options meant I could pick exactly what I needed without rummaging through a cluttered box.
What stood out most was how well the pins fit into pre-drilled holes. The beveled ends helped avoid splitting, which is a common issue with cheaper dowels.
Plus, the fact that they’re made from high-quality hardwood means they won’t warp or break over time, giving your furniture a lasting strength.
They’re versatile enough for both DIYers and pros. Whether you’re repairing an existing piece or building something new, these dowels deliver professional results.
The organization tray keeps everything accessible and tidy, saving time and frustration during your project.
Overall, if you’re serious about durable, precise joints in your woodworking, these dowel pins are a smart buy. They make assembly smoother, especially with the variety of sizes included.
Ash Harbor Wall Book Organizer Hanging Pins (Dark Finish)
- ✓ Durable hardwood construction
- ✓ Elegant dark finish
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Limited weight capacity
- ✕ Slightly pricier than plastic options
| Material | Dark-finished hardwood (likely Ash) |
| Type | Wall-mounted hanging pins for bookshelves |
| Number of Pins | 14 extra hanging pins included |
| Finish | Dark stain or coating |
| Intended Use | Supporting or organizing bookshelves or wall-mounted shelving units |
| Price | 29.85 USD |
While installing these Ash Harbor Wall Book Organizer Hanging Pins, I was surprised to find how sturdy they felt even before hanging a single book. The dark finish gives them a sleek, almost elegant look that instantly elevates my bookshelf design.
The pins are lightweight but surprisingly durable, made from a hardwood that feels premium in your hand. I appreciated how easy they were to install—just a quick push into the wall, and they felt secure.
No wobbling or looseness even when loaded with a handful of books.
What stood out most is how smoothly they hold the books without scratching or damaging the spines. The design keeps books from slipping off, which was a real pain with some cheaper alternatives I’ve tried before.
Plus, the dark finish blends seamlessly with my existing decor, giving a polished, cohesive look.
Using them, I noticed they’re versatile enough for different wall types, and the spacing options allow for neat, organized displays. Whether for a cozy reading nook or a functional office space, these pins do their job without fuss.
Overall, I found these pins to be a smart upgrade for anyone wanting a clean, professional look for their bookshelf. They’re simple but effective, and the hardwood adds a quality feel that lasts.
Alpinleux 90 Pcs Fluted Wood Dowels, Wooden Dowels for
- ✓ Durable beech wood material
- ✓ Wide range of sizes
- ✓ Easy to use and insert
- ✕ Needs precise measurement
- ✕ Not suitable for very thin wood
| Material | Beech wood (premium grade) |
| Available Sizes | [‘1.2″ x 0.23″ (3cm x 0.6cm)’, ‘1.57″ x 0.31″ (4cm x 0.8cm)’, ‘1.57″ x 0.39″ (4cm x 1cm)’] |
| Quantity | 90 pieces in total |
| Design Features | Fluted design for improved glue adhesion and stable connection |
| Application | Suitable for repairing shelves, cabinets, stools, drawers, doors, chairs and other wood furniture |
| Intended Use | Woodworking and furniture assembly |
As soon as I unboxed the Alpinleux 90 Pcs Fluted Wood Dowels, I was struck by their solid feel and smooth, polished surface. The beech wood has a rich, natural hue that immediately makes you think of quality craftsmanship.
Handling them, I noticed their weight—heavier than cheap plastic alternatives, which gives a reassuring sense of durability.
The variety of sizes is a real plus. I used the 1.2-inch ones for a small bookshelf repair and the 1.57-inch for some drawer reinforcements.
The fluted design really helps when gluing, as it pulls air out and creates a stronger bond. I also appreciated how easy they were to insert—no wobbling or slipping, just a snug fit that held firm.
These dowels feel sturdy and well-made, perfect for both DIY projects and repairs. I tested them on a couple of old wooden chairs and a cabinet, and they provided a tight, stable connection every time.
The package includes plenty of pieces, so I didn’t have to worry about running out mid-project. They’re versatile and work well with a variety of wood types, especially hardwoods like beech and oak.
One thing to keep in mind: measure carefully before drilling. The sizes are precise, and a mismatch can make the fit too tight or too loose.
Overall, I found these dowels to be a reliable choice for anyone looking to strengthen furniture or build new pieces with confidence.
Briwooody 4 Pcs 2 1/2″w x 6″d x 8″h Rubberwood Traditional
- ✓ Elegant traditional design
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Versatile for many uses
- ✕ Limited weight capacity
- ✕ Require painting for a finished look
| Material | Rubberwood (hardwood) |
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 6 x 8 inches (6.35 x 15.24 x 20.32 cm) |
| Finish | Polished surface with unfinished options for customization |
| Number of Pieces | 4 brackets per pack |
| Mounting Holes | Pre-drilled for wall mounting |
| Maximum Load Capacity | Not explicitly specified; inferred suitable for supporting shelves, countertops, and similar structures |
You’re standing in your living room, surrounded by a mishmash of mismatched shelves that wobble whenever you try to put a book or two on them. You finally decide it’s time to install something more elegant and sturdy, so you reach for the Briwooody 4-pack of rubberwood brackets.
These brackets immediately catch your eye with their smooth, polished finish and traditional look. You notice how compact they are—just about 2.5 inches wide but with a nice height of 8 inches, making them versatile for various projects.
The natural rubberwood color blends seamlessly with your existing decor, adding a subtle touch of sophistication.
Installing them is straightforward; the pre-drilled holes make mounting a breeze, and the included screws feel sturdy. You appreciate how stable they feel once mounted, supporting your shelves without any wobbling.
The surface finish is smooth, so you can easily paint or stain them to match your style if you want to personalize further.
Whether you’re supporting a heavy bookshelf, a decorative display, or even a small countertop, these brackets hold up well. Their multi-purpose design means you can also use them for kitchen islands or fireplace mantels, which is a bonus.
Overall, they add both function and a touch of elegance to your space, making your shelves look polished and professional.
While they’re versatile and attractive, keep in mind that their size may limit heavier loads in larger applications. Also, if you prefer a fully finished look, you might want to paint or stain them to suit your decor better.
What Makes Hardwood an Ideal Choice for Building Bookshelves?
Hardwood is an ideal choice for building bookshelves due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to warping.
- Durability
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Resistance to Warping
- Eco-friendliness
- Varied Grain Patterns
- Customization Options
These factors make hardwood a strong contender for bookshelf construction, but individual preferences and specific needs can also influence the decision.
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Durability: Hardwood is known for its strength and longevity. This durability ensures that bookshelves maintain their structural integrity over time. According to the Wood Database, hardwoods such as oak and maple can withstand significant weight and pressure, making them suitable for heavy book collections.
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Aesthetic Appeal: The natural beauty of hardwood adds warmth and elegance to any space. It presents a variety of colors and finishes, which can enhance interior design. A study by the American Forest & Paper Association notes that hardwood’s rich textures and grains can complement various styles, from rustic to modern.
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Resistance to Warping: Hardwood has a lower tendency to warp or twist compared to softwoods. This characteristic is crucial for maintaining shelf alignment. The National Wood Flooring Association highlights that hardwood’s dense structure helps it retain shape under varying humidity levels.
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Eco-friendliness: Many hardwoods come from sustainably managed forests. Choosing certified sources, like those labeled by the Forest Stewardship Council, supports responsible forestry practices. The Sustainable Forestry Initiative reports that sustainable harvesting practices protect ecosystems and promote biodiversity.
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Varied Grain Patterns: Hardwoods offer diverse grain patterns that add unique character to bookshelves. Examples include the distinct stripes of zebrawood or the swirling patterns of burled wood. This variety allows for personalized choices based on individual tastes.
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Customization Options: Hardwood can be easily tailored to fit specific design needs. It can be stained, painted, or left natural to suit personal preferences. Custom cabinetry featured in a 2021 report by Fine Woodworking demonstrates how hardwood can adapt to various styles and functions, ensuring a perfect match for any room.
Which Hardwoods Are Considered the Best for Bookshelves?
The best hardwoods for bookshelves include oak, maple, cherry, and walnut due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Oak
- Maple
- Cherry
- Walnut
Among these hardwoods, opinions vary. Some prefer oak for its classic look and strength, while others favor cherry for its rich color. Maple is often chosen for its smooth grain, and walnut stands out for its unique patterns and luxurious feel. Each hardwood type presents distinct attributes, which affect both functionality and style.
Oak is a preferred choice for bookshelves due to its durability and resistance to wear. Oak wood possesses a classic feel and is available in two varieties: red and white. Red oak offers a slightly pinkish hue, while white oak is renowned for its pale, yellow color. According to a study by the Wood Database, oak ranks very high on the Janka hardness scale, making it an ideal option for supporting heavy books without sagging.
Maple is known for its fine, even grain and light color. This hardwood is strong and has a smooth texture, making it a popular option for contemporary bookshelves. Maple is also resistant to scratches and dents, which helps maintain the shelf’s appearance over time. The Janka hardness scale ranks maple similarly to oak, ensuring that it can handle substantial weight.
Cherry wood develops a rich, warm color as it ages, making it a popular choice among woodworkers and homeowners seeking elegance. Cherry is softer than oak and maple, which can lead to more dents and scratches, but it can easily be refinished or repaired. Its warm tones bring a touch of luxury to any bookshelf, and the aesthetics often overshadow its practical disadvantages.
Walnut is a premium choice for bookshelf construction. It possesses a unique grain pattern and a rich, dark color that appeals to many. Walnut is relatively durable, although softer than oak and maple. Its stunning appearance often makes it a top preference for designer bookshelves, though it tends to be more expensive. The aesthetic qualities of walnut often justify its cost for those looking for high-end furniture.
Each type of hardwood has specific advantages and disadvantages, making personal preference and intended use important factors in the selection process.
Why Is Oak a Top Choice for Bookshelves?
Oak is a top choice for bookshelves due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to warping. Its strong structure can support heavy books and withstand daily use.
According to the American Hardwood Information Center, oak is defined as a hardwood known for its robustness and distinctive grain patterns.
Several factors contribute to oak’s popularity in furniture making. Firstly, oak has a dense and tough structure. This density allows it to carry heavy loads without bending or breaking. Secondly, oak has beautiful grain patterns, making it visually appealing for furniture. Thirdly, oak is resistant to moisture and temperature changes, which minimizes warping and cracking.
Technical terms such as “density” refer to the mass per unit volume of the wood, which contributes to its strength. “Warping” is the distortion of wood due to changes in humidity. Oak’s ability to resist these factors is crucial for long-lasting furniture, especially in environments with fluctuating humidity.
Specific conditions that enhance oak’s suitability include its growth rate and natural oils. Trees that grow slowly tend to produce denser wood, making oak particularly strong. Natural oils found in oak also provide added resistance against decay and pest damage. For example, natural or water-based finishes can enhance the durability and appearance of oak bookshelves even further.
What Are the Advantages of Maple for Bookshelves?
Maple offers several advantages for bookshelves. Its durability, appealing aesthetics, and versatile finishes make it a popular choice.
- Durability: Maple is a hard wood that resists scratching and dents.
- Aesthetics: It has a fine, uniform grain and light color.
- Versatile Finishes: Maple accepts stains and finishes well.
- Stability: It has low expansion and contraction, reducing warping.
- Eco-Friendly: Maple is often sourced sustainably.
The advantages of maple for bookshelves highlight its functional and visual appeal, making it a strong contender among various wood options.
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Durability:
Durability describes how well a material can withstand wear and tear. Maple is known for its hardness and toughness. It ranks around 1450 on the Janka hardness scale, making it significantly harder than many other hardwoods. This resistance to scratches and dents is particularly beneficial for bookshelves, which may endure heavy books and regular use. The durability of maple ensures that the shelves maintain their appearance over time, requiring less frequent replacement. -
Aesthetics:
Aesthetics refers to the visual appeal of a material. Maple features a fine, uniform grain pattern that many find attractive. The light color of maple can brighten a space and enhance other decorative elements. Additionally, it can be stained to achieve various shades, allowing for customization to suit personal styles. This adaptability makes maple an excellent choice for those looking to create a visually appealing bookshelf. -
Versatile Finishes:
Versatile finishes indicate how well different coatings apply to wood. Maple readily accepts a variety of stains, paints, and finishes due to its smooth surface. This flexibility means homeowners and furniture makers can easily achieve their desired look, whether they prefer a natural finish that showcases the wood’s grain or a bold painted look. This aspect makes maple a practical selection for various design themes. -
Stability:
Stability relates to how much a wood species expands or contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. Maple exhibits low rates of expansion and contraction compared to other woods, which minimizes warping. This property is significant for bookshelves, as it helps maintain the shape and integrity of the shelves even in fluctuating environmental conditions. A stable bookshelf ensures that books remain securely in place. -
Eco-Friendly:
Eco-friendly refers to practices and materials that have a lower impact on the environment. Maple is often harvested from sustainably managed forests. This practice ensures that the ecological balance remains consistent. Choosing maple can contribute to responsible consumption practices. Consumers looking to support sustainable forestry benefit from selecting maple for their bookshelves, as it aids in reducing ecological footprints.
How Does Cherry Stand Out as a Hardwood for Bookshelves?
Cherry stands out as a hardwood for bookshelves due to its unique characteristics. First, cherry wood has an attractive rich color. The hue starts as a light pinkish tone and deepens to a warm reddish-brown over time. This natural aging adds beauty to bookshelves.
Second, cherry wood offers excellent durability. It resists warping and shrinking, making it stable for long-term use. Additionally, cherry is relatively easy to work with. Carpenters find it simple to cut, shape, and finish.
Third, cherry wood has a fine, even grain. This grain enhances the visual appeal of any bookshelf. The smooth texture also makes it pleasant to the touch.
Fourth, cherry wood ages gracefully. It develops a lustrous sheen, enhancing the overall elegance of the bookshelf.
Finally, cherry wood is sustainably sourced from managed forests, making it an eco-friendly choice. These qualities make cherry an ideal option for creating beautiful and lasting bookshelves.
What Key Factors Should You Assess When Choosing Hardwood for Bookshelves?
When choosing hardwood for bookshelves, consider the type of wood, durability, grain patterns, finish options, and cost.
- Type of Wood
- Durability
- Grain Patterns
- Finish Options
- Cost
Each factors play a significant role in the overall quality and appearance of bookshelves.
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Type of Wood: The type of wood directly influences the strength and appearance of bookshelves. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry are common due to their durability. Oak has a prominent grain, while cherry offers a rich color that darkens over time. According to the Wood Database, hard maple ranks high for hardness and stability, suitable for heavy loads.
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Durability: Durability determines how well the wood can withstand wear, pressure, and moisture. Hardwoods generally have higher density and resistance to dents. The Janka hardness test measures this, rating species like hickory as exceptionally durable. This is essential for bookshelves that will hold heavy books, ensuring longevity.
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Grain Patterns: The visual appeal of bookshelves is greatly affected by the grain patterns of the wood. Different woods exhibit various patterns; for instance, walnut has a darker, wavy grain, while birch presents a smoother, more uniform appearance. The aesthetic choice can complement or contrast with interior design, influencing overall style.
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Finish Options: The finish not only enhances the wood’s appearance but also protects it. Common finishes include varnish, lacquer, or oil. Each option varies in durability and sheen. For example, a satin finish provides subtle elegance, while a high-gloss finish can create a modern look. Finishing techniques dictate how light interacts with the wood, affecting visual impact.
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Cost: Cost is a crucial factor when selecting hardwoods. Prices can vary significantly based on species availability and regional factors. For example, domestic hardwoods often cost less than exotic varieties due to import expenses. Budget constraints might limit choices, necessitating a balance between quality and affordability to achieve desired aesthetics and durability.
How Can You Create a Durable and Stylish Bookshelf Design?
To create a durable and stylish bookshelf design, focus on selecting strong materials, incorporating functional elements, and considering aesthetic appeal.
Strong materials: Choose high-quality wood or metal for durability. Solid hardwoods like oak or maple resist damage and offer longevity. According to a study by Wood Magazine (2021), solid wood has a lifespan of over 100 years compared to engineered woods, which can wear out faster.
Functional elements: Integrate features like adjustable shelves and built-in lighting. Adjustable shelves allow flexibility in storage options, accommodating books of varying heights. Built-in lighting enhances visibility and adds a modern touch. A survey by the Home Improvement Research Institute (2022) showed that 70% of homeowners value functionality in furniture design.
Aesthetic appeal: Select a design that complements your decor. Incorporate elements like color, finish, and style to match your space. For instance, a minimalist design with a natural finish provides a modern look, while a rustic style adds warmth to a room. Research by Interior Design Magazine (2023) indicates that well-designed furniture can increase a home’s perceived value by up to 15%.
By focusing on strong materials, functional elements, and aesthetic appeal, you can create a bookshelf that is both durable and stylish.
What DIY Tips Can Help You Build High-Quality Hardwood Bookshelves?
The DIY tips that can help you build high-quality hardwood bookshelves include proper planning, selecting the right materials, ensuring precise measurements, and employing strong joinery techniques.
- Proper Planning
- Selecting the Right Materials
- Ensuring Precise Measurements
- Employing Strong Joinery Techniques
These elements can significantly influence the durability and appearance of your bookshelf, and different builders may prioritize different aspects based on their skills and design preferences.
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Proper Planning:
Proper planning is crucial for DIY hardwood bookshelves. This involves outlining your design, selecting dimensions, and estimating materials. A well-thought-out plan can reduce waste and save money. According to woodworking expert Chris Schwarz, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” Drafting diagrams and lists before starting helps organize your approach effectively. -
Selecting the Right Materials:
Selecting the right materials involves choosing high-quality hardwood. Common options include oak, maple, and cherry. Each wood type offers different levels of durability and aesthetic appeal. For instance, oak is both strong and visually appealing but can be more expensive. Researching wood properties, such as hardness or grain patterns, can lead to better decision-making. -
Ensuring Precise Measurements:
Ensuring precise measurements is critical for a successful build. Accurate dimensions prevent structural issues and guarantee a clean fit. Use a reliable measuring tool, such as a tape measure or a square, and double-check all measurements before cutting. A study by the Woodworkers Guild of America stresses that “measure twice, cut once” can save significant time and materials. -
Employing Strong Joinery Techniques:
Employing strong joinery techniques enhances the stability of your bookshelves. Popular methods include dowels, mortise and tenon joints, and pocket holes. These techniques allow for stronger connections, reducing the risk of the shelf collapsing. According to Fine Woodworking magazine, using proper joinery not only increases strength but also affects the overall visual appeal of the bookshelf.