Metal Bookcases & Bookshelves

Metal bookcases are a sleek addition to any personal or professional space, and they offer organization and accessibility while accommodating a wide range of decor themes and color schemes. With the right storage tools, it's easy to maximize your available space, set aside space for items in every room, and limit visual clutter. With Staples® furniture listings, create the ideal workspace.

Choosing the Proper Amount of Shelves
Since units come with a wide range of shelving options, users can decide how much vertical space they want to fill and how much shelf space is necessary. Those looking for a furniture side piece to hold a selection of books and a few decor items often choose two- or three-shelf models. Users interested in displaying a larger book collection or creating a focal point in a room, select larger models with four, five, or six shelves. Several metal bookshelves have adjustable shelves, permitting users to choose the ideal shelf spacing arrangement for their needs.

Closed-back and Open-back Metal Bookcases
One of the primary ways in which bookcases differ is the type of backing they have. Some models have an open back. These units are open on all four sides, held together only at the corners. This setup creates a minimalist appearance, offers ambient lighting to shelf items, and keeps the structure lightweight. Others feature a traditional closed back that prevents books or objects from falling backward and offers a classic look to the room. Those looking for a blend of these two styles can browse bookshelves with raised edges. The edges surround three sides of each shelf, keeping the contents secure while still creating an open look.

Stationary and Folding Bookcase Models
Some bookcases have a standard stationary design. These units usually require tools to assemble, and they tend to be fairly heavy. They hold a substantial amount of weight, so they're a dependable option for those displaying heavy books and collectible items. Users who prioritize quick, tool-free assembly often prefer folding bookshelf options. These models have a lightweight design that makes them easy to assemble and move from room to room.

How Much Weight Do Metal Bookshelves Support?
The weight limit of each metal bookcase depends largely on which type of metal it uses, and its construction method. Steel bookshelves can support up to 200 pounds per shelf. Those utilizing lighter metal options often support between 7.5 and 12 pounds per shelf. Several units must have evenly distributed weight to support the maximum load.

Which Design Features Are Available?
Some models use multiple materials for a two-tone color scheme. These units often use metal for the frame and wood or particleboard for the shelves. A variety of metal bookcases have decorative details and accents, including glass shelves and gold-tone metal. A varied choice of color finishes, such as black, grey, white, brown, and taupe, offers plenty of decorative opportunities. 

Which Structural Features Offer Additional Support on Metal Bookshelves?
Many models have an X-bar across the back of the bookcase that stabilizes the unit. Others have a wider, heavier shelf on the bottom of the bookcase to secure the higher shelves. Some units have an anchoring bar in the middle of each shelf.