Pottery Barn Crown Molding Shelf

This shelf from Pottery Barn has made our list for one simple reason - it's a great idea. Still, that doesn't necessary mean that you have to spend upwards of $45 on readymade shelf. What the Pottery Barn has done is turn molding on its side, so it sticks out from the wall to form a shelf. You can easily do this on your own by buying crown molding and attaching it to any wall in your house. Take a gander around your local hardware store, look for crown molding, and compare costs. Also, consider placing a piece of molding above a door frame for space-saving book storage. Available at www.potterybarn.com.

Ikea Hyllis

Sturdy wooden bookshelves can be quite pricey, but metal kitchen (or garage) racks aren't. These large and rugged racks from IKEA can house lots of books, and they'll also create a clean, modern, look. Of course, the best part is that they are inexpensive - go ahead and buy all the books that you want! Available at www.ikea.com.

DIY Ladder Bookshelf

For those lacking just a bit of bookshelf space, the DIY ladder shelf is a great idea. Purchase a large wooden ladder, open it, and place it within a corner of your house. Then, proceed to stack books on each step in any way that appeals to you. Alternately, you can lean a closed ladder against a wall, as pictured here, which saves space. Not only will you haveconvenient book storage, but also an interesting art piece. Photo credit: www.southernliving.com.

2Modern Blue Dot Welf Shelf

These shelves (brought to you by 2Modern) are versatile, colorful, and entirely adjustable. Place one or ten of these shelves on any wall that needs a quick facelift. Select from colors such as Breezy Blue, Blush, or Oxblood. If you desire something more structured, 2Modern also offers a shelving system option (sold separately). Available at www.2modern.com.

Magnetic Shelves by Henry Julier

How's this for a fresh new design idea - magnetic shelves. Designer Henry Julier has created shelves that stick to any kind of magnetic surface. Place the shelves next to one another, or tear them apart. If you're looking for a few shelves to place strategically around your home, you don't want to miss these. Contact Henry Julier for pricing and shipping details. Available at www.henryjulier.com.

Don't see quite the book storage solution that you are looking for? Hire a skilled carpenter to custom-build shelving for your home.

Updated November 6, 2018.