Navigate to Top

Bookcases & Bookshelves

Of all the furniture pieces in an office, bookshelves might be some of the most useful. A set of shelves adds surface space for storing books, papers, and miscellaneous items that don't fit anywhere else. By stacking shelves in columns, bookcases impose an automatic organizational plan, as high-priority items naturally drift toward the middle shelves and less-often-used materials find a home near the top or bottom levels. Shelf sets can be purely functional or highly decorative, and there's almost no limit to the potential arrangements of shelves and spacers to create unique storage areas.

Large Versus Small Bookshelves
Large shelf sets offer a lot of room for books and files and are ideal for areas that have large quantities of floor and wall space to offer. Floor-to-ceiling cases can inhabit entire walls and provide space for complete library collections. These are popular choices for common areas, such as meeting rooms and conference halls, because they hold reference books, technical manuals, and binders full of company policy materials, which are helpful reads for employee education.

Shorter shelves might only be a few feet tall and offer two or three levels. They may range from 1 or 2 feet in length to several feet. These work well in tight spaces and individual work areas. Their limited space is not an obstacle when only one or two people use them in private offices or shared cubicle spaces.

Bookshelves Vary in Materials and Design
The materials and designs of shelves make a difference in how useful they become in spaces. Standard storage cubes are usually the simplest, typically made from laminated MDF panels. Most ship in pieces for convenient assembly in the office. Etagere shelves are more delicate and usually have an open, flow-through design appropriate for exposed spaces away from the walls.

Divided horizontally as well as vertically, cube cases create a cubby effect. Corner cases have backs cut at right angles to nestle into corners, ideal for cubical-styled offices. Scaffold designs usually feature multiple shelves in a staggered configuration, bound at the sides by tubular metal scaffolding. Any of these may have MDF, wood, glass, or metal in their designs, allowing users to get decorative with them.

What Can You Keep on Bookshelves Aside From Books?
Which designs work in given spaces depend on what the needs are for the shelves. Books and binders do well enough in standard cases, while document boxes belong in cubbies. Delicate items, such as picture frames and keepsakes, complement etagere shelves. Scaffolds work well for books, antiques, merchandise, or -- in the case of wood-and-steel warehouse shelving -- heavy boxes and tools.

How Strong Are Bookshelves?
Shelves can be either very strong or too delicate for heavier items. Wooden and MDF shelves tend to have a higher load tolerance than glass shelves, but even short glass shelves can carry significant weight if properly braced. Some cases have lightweight shelves near the top that only store small or light items, and lower levels that hold much more. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations, which should indicate a maximum weight tolerance.

Do You Have to Assemble Bookshelves?
Some shelf sets arrive in pieces and need assembly before use. Others, especially short, compact units, ship fully assembled. Scaffold shelving often needs assembly, and built-in shelves simply need fixing to the wall with sturdy fasteners. More Less
Sauder East Canyon 5-Shelf Bookcase (417223)
Sauder East Canyon 5-Shelf Bookcase (417223)
Item : 2410697 / Model : 417223
Add to Favorites
  • 71.024"X 29.291" X 13.386"
  • 5 Year Warranty
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
156.99 $156.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Ameriwood Hayden Bookcase
Ameriwood Hayden Bookcase
Item : SS7799116
Add to Favorites
As low as 39.99 $39.99
Multiple options available
Sauder Premier Composite Wood Bookcases, Assorted Sizes
Sauder Premier Composite Wood Bookcases, Assorted Sizes
Item : SS1062640
(1365)
Add to Favorites
  • Please select an item to view product details
  • Estate Black Finish or Planked Cherry finish
  • 1" thick shelves
As low as 89.99 $89.99
Multiple options available
Mylex Three Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 31.63"H White (43061)
Mylex Three Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 31.63"H White (43061)
Item : 2605118 / Model : 43061
Add to Favorites
  • Protective kickplate
  • One fixed shelf
  • Two adjustable shelves
50.99 $50.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Winsome Terrace Solid/Composite Wood 3-Tier 37" Wide Storage Shelf, Espresso
Winsome Terrace Solid/Composite Wood 3-Tier 37" Wide Storage Shelf, Espresso
Item : 55654 / Model : 92338
(1)
Add to Favorites
  • Espresso
  • Dimensions: 30"(H) x 37"(W) x 11.81"(D), Shelf: 37"(W) x 11.81"(D) Top, 12.80"(H) x 34 1/27"(W) x 10.63"(D) upper, 12.32"(H) lower
  • Trading three tier shelf to provide the perfect solution
90.69 $90.69
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Sauder Beginnings 3-Shelf Bookcase (413322)
Sauder Beginnings 3-Shelf Bookcase (413322)
Item : 2410699 / Model : 413322
Add to Favorites
  • 35.276" X 24.567" X 11.496"
  • 1 Year Warranty
40.99 $40.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Furinno® 34" x 23.8" Pine Solid Wood 3-Tier Bookshelf
Furinno® 34" x 23.8" Pine Solid Wood 3-Tier Bookshelf
Item : 1381338 / Model : FNCL-33001-C1
(3)
Add to Favorites
  • Dimension: 34"H x 23.8"W x 9.85"D
  • Weight: 8 lbs.
  • Features: Simple Stylish Design, Functional & Suitable for any Room
49.89 $49.89
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
ReadyNow Folding 2 Shelf Bookcase, Natural, 27.6"H x 23.6"W x 11.4"D
ReadyNow Folding 2 Shelf Bookcase, Natural, 27.6"H x 23.6"W x 11.4"D
Item : 2806578 / Model : 1205030003-N
Add to Favorites
  • Fully assembled, simply remove from box
  • Rich natural finish on sturdy gunmetal frame
  • Folds away for out of the way storage
 Get it by Fri, May 25
59.99 $59.99
Each
Get it by Fri, May 25
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Mylex Three Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 31.63"H Black (43064)
Mylex Three Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 31.63"H Black (43064)
Item : 2605117 / Model : 43064
Add to Favorites
  • Protective kickplate
  • One fixed shelf
  • Two adjustable shelves
50.99 $50.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Whalen® Astoria 3-Shelf Bookcase, Brown Cherry
Whalen® Astoria 3-Shelf Bookcase, Brown Cherry
Item : 917187 / Model : ATBK-P2-CC
(592)
Add to Favorites
  • Solid wood frame in cherry finish for durable beauty
  • Metal supports in satin black lend strength
  • Three wood-framed glass shelves in tinted black add contemporary style
 Get it by Fri, May 25
99.99 $99.99 159.99 $159.99
Each
Offer Details
Get it by Fri, May 25
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Price: $159.99
Instant Savings: -$60.00
$99.99*
Each
*Price after savings
South Shore Vito 3-Shelf Bookcase 59.5'' with Doors, Sumptuous Cherry,(10332)
South Shore Vito 3-Shelf Bookcase 59.5'' with Doors, Sumptuous Cherry,(10332)
Item : 24134095 / Model : 10332
Add to Favorites
  • Metal knobs in a Matte Nickel finish
  • 3 open storage spaces separated by 2 adjustable shelves
  • Behind the doors: 2 storage spaces separated by 1 adjustable shelf
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
237.59 $237.59
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Staples® Hayden™ Laminate Bookcases
Staples® Hayden™ Laminate Bookcases
Item : SS1100781
(350)
Add to Favorites
  • Please select an item to view product details
  • Durable laminate finish
  • Weight Capacity (evenly distributed):
    Middle Shelf: 35 lbs.
    Bottom Shelf: 50 lbs.
As low as 17.49 $17.49
Multiple options available
Sauder Beginnings 3-Shelf Bookcase (416438)
Sauder Beginnings 3-Shelf Bookcase (416438)
Item : 2410703 / Model : 416438
(1)
Add to Favorites
  • Two adjustable shelves
  • Brook Cherry finish
  • 24.6 x 11.5 x 35.3 inches
40.99 $40.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Whalen Sorano Bookcase, 30"H x 30"W x 15"D
Whalen Sorano Bookcase, 30"H x 30"W x 15"D
Item : 1687612 / Model : SPUS-SWBK
(46)
Add to Favorites
  • Designed to be used as bookcase or printer stand
  • Functional desk height design
  • Solid wood legs with metal supports
 Get it by Fri, May 25
149.99 $149.99
Each
Get it by Fri, May 25
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Mylex Five Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 71.5"H Black (43074)
Mylex Five Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 71.5"H Black (43074)
Item : 2605114 / Model : 43074
Add to Favorites
  • Protective kickplate
  • Two fixed shelves
  • Three adjustable shelves
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
72.99 $72.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Staples® Axis Bookcase, Cherry Finish
Staples® Axis Bookcase, Cherry Finish
Item : 1544945 / Model : 27911
(10)
Add to Favorites
  • Product Dimension: 24"W x 12"D x 44"H
  • Rich cherry finished shelves
  • Black powder coated metal frames
 Get it by Fri, May 25
143.99 $143.99
Each
Get it by Fri, May 25
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Raine Collection Bookcase
Raine Collection Bookcase
Item : 1387734 / Model : SPLS-RBK-WH
(14)
Add to Favorites
  • White and Cherry finish
  • Durable laminate surfaces
  • 3 fixed shelves
 Get it by Fri, May 25
129.99 $129.99
EA
Get it by Fri, May 25
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Mylex Five Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 71.5"H Oak (43070)
Mylex Five Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 71.5"H Oak (43070)
Item : 2605116 / Model : 43070
Add to Favorites
  • Protective kickplate
  • Two fixed shelves
  • Three adjustable shelves
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
72.99 $72.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Altra Moberly Bookcase with Doors, Black Oak (9478026COM)
Altra Moberly Bookcase with Doors, Black Oak (9478026COM)
Item : 2660720 / Model : 9478026COM
Add to Favorites
  • Black
  • 70.625" x 29.68" x 12.37"
  • Assembly Required
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
130.69 $130.69
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Convenience Concepts X-Tra Storage 2-Tier Folding Shelf, Metal
Convenience Concepts X-Tra Storage 2-Tier Folding Shelf, Metal
Item : 311217 / Model : 8020B
Add to Favorites
  • Black color
  • 20.5" x 13"W x 11.2"D
  • 5 pounds
27.49 $27.49
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Sauder 2-Shelf Bookcase (414238)
Sauder 2-Shelf Bookcase (414238)
Item : 2410722 / Model : 414238
(1)
Add to Favorites
  • 29.921" X 35.276" X 13.228"
  • 5 Year Warranty
86.99 $86.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Mylex Five Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 71.5"H White (43071)
Mylex Five Shelf Bookcase 29.63"W x 11.63"D x 71.5"H White (43071)
Item : 2605115 / Model : 43071
Add to Favorites
  • Protective kickplate
  • Two fixed shelves
  • Three adjustable shelves
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
72.99 $72.99
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Winsome Leo Solid/Composite Wood 2-Tier Wide Storage Shelf, Espresso
Winsome Leo Solid/Composite Wood 2-Tier Wide Storage Shelf, Espresso
Item : 55649 / Model : 92326
(1)
Add to Favorites
  • Espresso
  • Dimensions: 29.21"(H) x 25.2"(W) x 11.22"(D)
  • Smooth, sleek design and neatly organizes baskets
65.59 $65.59
Each
1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
Sauder Beginnings 5-Shelf Bookcase (416439)
Sauder Beginnings 5-Shelf Bookcase (416439)
Item : 2410715 / Model : 416439
(2)
Add to Favorites
  • 71.181" X 24.567" X 11.496"
  • 1 Year Warranty
$2.99 Handling Fee  added in cart
69.99 $69.99
Each
Sign up for Staples offers
Join us on:
Get the mobile appiOS Android

This Web site is intended for use by US residents only. See International Sites. See our delivery policy for full details. Copyright 1998-2018, Staples, Inc., All Rights Reserved.