Library Furniture Glossary: Different Types of Library Furniture
Looking for library furniture can be confusing, even for the initiated. It can be difficult to know what shelves and storage you need and how many different options there are. Being the specialists, we thought we’d help with a comprehensive library furniture list.
Our handy library furniture glossary guide will help you to visualise what different types of shelving you can offer your library. These options not only make the space feel tidy but also make it easy to use and file away books and papers. They can showcase book covers, especially for children, and help your library to function more efficiently as a result.
Double-Sided Bookcases
The bookcase shown here is a 4-column, 6-shelf library unit with a ladder. Both the back and front have been finished so that the bookcase can be used from both sides. This sort of bookcase is perfect for libraries, schools, colleges, and other workplaces.
Brilliant for saving precious space and keeping air flow around the room, it can be used as shown with open bookshelves, or alternatively optional wood or glass doors can be added. A selection of different finishes are available including walnut, cherry and wenge.
Low Library Bookshelves
Low-height bookshelves like the unit shown here provide easy access to books for those with disabilities or children, make them perfect for modern library furniture requirements. They can also be used to add visibility in front of a reception desk, letting the light stream in in front of a window.
This particular bookshelf is set on wheels and therefore allows greater flexibility in your library layout. As an open bookcase, books can also be accessed from both sides, saving valuable space.
Similarly, the end panels are recessed so that books can be displayed. This is ideal if you are running a promotion or want to highlight particular titles or topics within your library.
Book Displays
Utilising book displays as a part of your library furniture is a great way to show off individual titles and make them easily accessible.
Most of our ranges have height-adjustable shelves which means that you could potentially cross promote DVDs or CDs to accompany associated book ranges. Alternatively, you could put a rotating DVD/CD display unit in place of the computer monitor in this image.
Book displays are also ideal for information points such as visitor centres and reception areas.
Children’s Library Furniture
At BT Office, we stock a wide list of library furniture such as book displays, bookcases, seating, and tables that fit perfectly for schools, bookshops, or other children’s library areas. Naturally, the furniture has a lower overall height to provide easy access to books for little people!
Funky seating can also be added to help create the perfect kid’s environment, conducive to reading and learning. Colourful book displays further complement your children’s library area.
Breakout Areas
Some libraries and bookstores have designated breakout areas. These are areas specifically designed to allow users to sit and read or study informally.
The example shown in the image portrays an ultra-modern and stylish configuration. However, we also have a large range of more conventional breakout furniture for a more classic look and feel.
In addition to our table ranges, we have a massive selection of breakout seating options including reproduction chairs, stools, modular seating, tub chairs, and sofas.
Reception Furniture
For libraries, schools and colleges, you might also need to include a reception area. We have an extensive range of wood and glass desks or wood/glass combinations of reception furniture to choose from.
Some of our reception desks also have integral lighting systems and a wide variety of different finish and styling options.
At BT Office Furniture, we have years of experience in supplying furniture for libraries and other workplaces. To discuss your project, call us on 0800 298 7033 or email us at [email protected].