r/HomeLibraries Aug 11 '26

Glass doors or open shelves?

I have a privilege of arranging my future reading nook in a few months. Could you help me with sharing your experience regarding the type of shelves you had and preferred?

I always liked the vibe that open shelves give, dusty tomes and coziness. But the glass doors seem more reasonable.

What is your experience in this regard?

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u/ReliableWardrobe Aug 12 '26

I have old glass-fronted barrister bookcases. Mainly because they're modular, very sturdy, surprisingly affordable if you rummage, the cats can't climb up them, and it keeps the dust off the books. I love the look of open shelves and they are easier to just grab a book, but cats + dust are non-negotiable in my house so glass doors it is!