Image: Clair Strong Interior Design

A home library might seem like an impossible pipe dream but the truth is you don’t need a sprawling mansion, or even a whole room dedicated to books, you can create a library in just about any space.

Books, a comfy chair and some peace and quiet are all you really need to create a sacred reading nook. This is good news if you live in a tiny apartment and even better news if you’re blessed with a few extra rooms!

Here are four unique ways to shoehorn a library into your home. Live that dream!

1. Line the Hallway

Let’s rethink the narrow, oft-neglected hallway and turn it into a long, elegant library with just a few slim shelves. You could even extend the library up the stairs and into the landing, if you have enough books!

If your hallway is particularly narrow, you can have some shelves custom-made to take up as little space as possible.

2. In the Corner

The corner of a room is often unused space, which makes it perfect for filling with books. Bookcases take up mere inches of floor space but when filled with tomes offer a glorious sight. I love the corner library in the image below. It looks as though the shelves are built into the walls, taking up even less precious floor space.

3. Around the Doorframe

This is another one for custom-built shelves; whether a single or double door, shelves all the way up and around the frame look great and utilise more wasted space. What I love about this option is how unusual it is, it makes a real statement. The shelf above the door can be used to display a few ornaments – or books you don’t often read.

4. Hang them High

When floor space is limited, there’s only one way to go, and that’s up. Shelves fitted high on the wall (parallel to the ceiling, even) allow you to have your books on display but keeps them out of the way. You might need a small step ladder to access them, but I think that just adds to the charm!