20 Creative Ways to Organize Books in a Small Space

Today we’re chatting all about how to organize books in a small space, with some great storage ideas to keep your books accessible and beautifully displayed.

As a fellow book lover, I understand the struggle of owning books in a small home…let alone keeping them neatly organized! Limited space can make it difficult to find a place for all of your books, especially if you have a large collection. However, with the right book storage solutions and creative tips, you can maximize your space and easily keep your books organized.

Whether you are looking to downsize your ever-growing library (just a little!), organize the area to match your style and aesthetic, or wish to create a comfy reading nook, there are plenty of smart solutions to try. 

From multi-purpose furniture to vertical storage and unique systems, this guide is filled with easy, manageable tips that anyone can do. Say goodbye to random piles of books and hello to a beautifully organized space that you will love once again!

Discover easy ways to organize books (even in the smallest spaces!) below.

Take a Closer Look at Your Space

When it comes to organizing books in a small space, the first step is to really take a good look at the size of the space and layout that you have to work with. This is a smart way to decide how to best utilize the area and make the most of what you have.

Think Up: How to Maximize Vertical Space

One of the most effective ways to make the most of a smaller room is to turn vertical space into valuable storage areas. There are so many untapped book storage ideas that you can implement in your small apartment to keep your books tidy without sacrificing your style. 

Take a look at these easy ways to store your books using vertical space:

Utilizing Hidden Areas

Another way to make the most of a smaller space is to utilize hidden areas. This means looking for spaces that might not be immediately obvious as storage areas but can be repurposed for that use. For example, you might have a small nook or alcove that could be turned into a bookshelf, or you might be able to add shelves to the back of a closet door. By thinking creatively, you can find new storage solutions that you might not have considered before.

Considering Multipurpose Furniture

When organizing books in a small space, it’s key to think beyond traditional furniture. For example, a bookshelf that also has drawers or cabinets can provide additional storage, while a storage ottoman can be used both for seating and for storing books. By choosing furniture that serves multiple purposes, you can make the most of your square footage and keep your space organized and functional.

By taking a realistic look at your living area and exploring options like taking advantage of vertical space, optimizing hidden areas, and considering multi-use furniture, you can create a practical storage area for all of your favorite novels.

Prioritizing Your Favorite Reads

When it comes to organizing your books, curating a selection you love and feel inspired by will change the entire feel of that area of the home. Here’s how to make your space work harder while keeping your beloved books close:

Let Your Favorite Books Be Front and Center-Stage

Start by going through your collection and selecting your absolute favorites—those books that you can’t wait to read again or those that you hold dear to your heart. Create a special bookshelf for them making it easy to grab (or simply enjoy looking at from your cozy spot on the couch!). You can also feature books from your to-read list. We all have that stack of books tucked away in a corner—give them a spot on your main bookshelf to keep them front and center, inspiring you to take some time out and dive into a new series!

By prioritizing these, you’ll create a personal and inviting reading space that feels just right.

Don’t be afraid to mix in other books that you still want to keep but you know that you won’t read very often. Store them higher up or in deeper corners, so they don’t clutter your main reading area but are still within reach when you’re in the mood for something new.

You may find some books that you are ready to let go of. This is the perfect time to create a donation pile and downsize some of your library to make room for new favorites and keep your space feeling fresh and organized.

Choosing Books to Display

If you have an extensive book collection, you might find that it’s time to be a little picky about which books you want to show off. Think about the ones that you truly love or ones that hold a special meaning to you.

For example, you might choose to display your favorite books on a bookshelf in your living room or bedroom. You could also use decorative bookends or other accessories to add visual interest to your display.

When choosing books to display, it’s also helpful to think about how they fit into the vibe of your space. You may want to choose books that complement your existing decor or add a pop of color to a neutral space.

By picking and displaying only your favorites, you’ll not only make the most of your space but also keep your beloved books close, where they’ll inspire you every day.

Creative Storage Ideas

In small spaces, getting creative with book storage is essential. Here are a few clever ideas to help you maximize your space while keeping your books neatly organized and within easy reach.

Floating and Ladder Shelves

Floating and ladder shelves are perfect for small spaces because they keep your floor area clear while offering plenty of room for your books. These shelves can be mounted at any height, which makes them perfect for high ceilings or awkward corners that usually go unused.

There are so many options out there that can easily be customized to fit your square footage and decor style. You can choose from a variety of materials, such as wood or metal, and select a finish that complements your existing aesthetic.

Cube Storage

Adding cube storage is a great way to offer both flexibility and organization. This system allows you to mix and match individual units to make a creative solution that matches your needs and space perfectly. Whether you’re stacking cubes vertically or arranging them horizontally, they provide more than enough space for books, decor, or other essentials.

To see how you like the new system, start with just a few cubes and expand as needed. You can easily rearrange them when you need more storage and want to add more. Their clean, modern look makes them a perfect addition to any room, helping you stay organized without adding clutter.

Dual-Purpose Decor Items

It can be overwhelming when figuring out how to keep your home tidy and organized, while also enjoying it with your style! The best way to do this is to opt for items that serve multiple purposes instead of purely decorative pieces.

Here are some great options to consider:

Ottomans and console tables are great pieces that not only add a stylish touch to your space but also serve as a functional storage solution for your books. Whether placed in your entryway or used as an entertainment center in the living room, these pieces combine style and practicality. Choose one that complements your decor while offering convenient storage for your favorite reads.

There are so many fun and creative ways to organize your books in a small living space! Whether you go for floating or ladder shelves, cube storage, or decorative items, you are sure to find a functional system that works for you!

Secrets to Keep Your Space Organized Long-Term

The hard work is all done! You’ve turned the space into a beautifully organized mini library that you’re proud of. No more piles of books cluttering the room or shelves that have no rhyme or reason. Everything has its place and your books are truly being enjoyed now. 

But the work doesn’t stop there. To keep that beautiful organization around long-term, there are a few simple habits you can adopt. Maintaining your space doesn’t have to be a chore–with a few easy strategies, you can keep everything tidy and functional each day.

Here are some simple strategies I use that help me keep the space tidy and stress-free:

Reset the Area Every Night

To keep your storage area tidy every day, check in each night to see if any books are out of place or on the floor. By doing this regularly, the mess won’t ever get out of hand, and it’ll only take a few minutes to get everything back in order.

Regular Decluttering Sessions

One great way to maintain your organized space is to regularly declutter your books. I recommend doing this every few months, or as often as you feel necessary. During these sessions, go through your collection and determine which books you no longer need or want. Consider donating them to a local library or charity, or selling them online.

Reinvent Your Organization System

Another simple way to keep your space organized is by getting creative with how you rearrange things. If your current system isn’t working, don’t be afraid to try something new. For example, you could sort your books by color, size, or even how often you reach for them. Experimenting with different setups can bring fresh energy to your space while making it even more functional.

By using these easy strategies, you can keep your books organized, even in a small space. With a little regular decluttering, some fun reorganization, and smart storage solutions, you’ll be able to keep your collection neat without any stress.

Want to take your decluttering to the next level? Join our 30-day declutter challenge and get the support and motivation you need to simplify your space one day at a time!