23 Multipurpose Bookshelf Ideas For Small Bedroom
Struggling to fit a bookshelf into your small bedroom without making it feel cramped? You’re not alone! Whether you’re an avid reader with a growing collection or just looking for a stylish way to store a few favorite books, finding the right bookshelf can be tricky when space is limited.
But don’t worry, there are plenty of clever, space-saving ideas that can help you make the most of even the tiniest room. From wall-mounted shelves to hidden nooks, this post will explore creative bookshelf ideas that won’t take up too much precious space.
How do I choose the right bookshelf for a small bedroom?
Choosing the right bookshelf for a small bedroom can seem tricky, but it all comes down to understanding your space and needs. First, measure the available area where you’d like to place the bookshelf. In small rooms, you want to prioritize vertical space rather than horizontal, so taller, slim bookshelves or wall-mounted options work best.
Think about how many books or items you need to store. If your collection is small, a few floating shelves may be all you need. For larger collections, a narrow bookshelf that reaches up to the ceiling can offer plenty of storage without eating up precious floor space.
Corner shelves are another great option, as they maximize usually unused space. Look for designs that match your room’s style to avoid making the room feel cluttered. The goal is to add function without overwhelming the room’s layout.
Can I add a bookshelf to a very small bedroom?
Yes, you can absolutely add a bookshelf to a very small bedroom! The key is to get creative with how you use your space. One idea is to install floating shelves on the wall, which can hold books without taking up any floor space.
You can arrange them above your bed, desk, or along an empty wall. Another option is over-the-bed shelves, which provide storage space without sticking out too much. For very tight rooms, a narrow bookcase that fits into an unused corner or a shelf that runs along the perimeter of the room (closer to the ceiling) can give you plenty of book storage without crowding the room.
Even furniture like headboards with built-in shelving can work as a space-saving solution. You just have to think vertically and use otherwise wasted areas to maximize every inch of space.
What are the best bookshelf ideas for a minimalist small bedroom?
For a minimalist small bedroom, the best bookshelf ideas are those that keep the space looking clean, organized, and clutter-free. Wall-mounted shelves are a popular choice in minimalist design because they don’t take up floor space and can blend seamlessly with the room’s décor.
Floating shelves in neutral tones, like white or natural wood, can complement a minimalist aesthetic without overwhelming the space. Built-in shelves are another excellent option if you want a sleek, seamless look. They fit snugly into walls or around existing furniture, providing storage without adding extra furniture to the room.
You can also consider furniture that doubles as storage, such as a bed frame with built-in drawers or a desk with integrated shelving. Keeping the shelves simple and free of excess décor helps maintain that minimalist, clean vibe while providing practical storage for your books.
Related: 30+ Book Shelf Ideas For Living Room
Bookshelf Ideas For Small Bedroom
- Bookshelf Headboard Combo
This one’s perfect for those of us who love reading in bed but hate having to get up to grab the next book. Enter the bookshelf headboard! It’s exactly what it sounds like—a headboard that doubles as a bookshelf. Not only does it give you easy access to your book collection, but it also adds a stylish, multifunctional element to your room.
Some headboards come with built-in shelves, which is a dream for book lovers. You can tuck your books behind you while leaving room for little decor items like candles, plants, or a cute alarm clock. If you want a cozy reading nook vibe, add some LED lights to your bookshelf headboard to create a soft glow while you read.
- Under-the-Window Shelving
Got a low window in your bedroom? Don’t let that space go to waste! An under-the-window bookshelf is a fantastic way to utilize every inch of your room. Whether you go for a custom-built shelf or a low, freestanding unit, this solution lets you store your books without blocking any natural light.
You can even create a little reading nook here. Imagine a cozy cushion on top of the bookshelf, creating the perfect spot to curl up with a book and enjoy the sunshine. Throw in some comfy pillows, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate cozy corner!
- Above-the-Door Shelving
If you’re tight on space, consider shelving above the door. I know, it’s a little unconventional, but hear me out—this idea is pure genius! That space above your door is almost always left bare, so why not put it to work?
Install a long shelf above the doorframe, and you’ve got yourself a high-up book storage solution that doesn’t encroach on your living space at all. Sure, it’s not the most accessible spot for everyday reading, but it’s perfect for storing books you don’t reach for as often. Plus, it adds a quirky, unexpected design element that’s bound to catch people’s eye.
- Bookshelf Above the Bed
Another great space-saving idea is to install a bookshelf directly above your bed. It’s like a little overhead library that doubles as decor! You could go for a single long shelf or a few staggered shelves. Either way, this solution gives you easy access to your books while making use of what’s usually an underutilized area.
For safety, just make sure you install the shelves securely—you don’t want them falling on you in the middle of the night! You can add a few small plants or framed prints to break up the books, making them both functional and pretty.
- Behind-the-Door Bookshelves
We’ve all got that awkward space behind the bedroom door that never seems to get used. Well, here’s a sneaky little idea: turn it into a hidden bookshelf! Narrow shelves mounted behind the door can be the perfect solution for small bedrooms. They don’t take up much space, and the door can swing open normally without getting in the way.
It’s a great spot to store paperback books or smaller items, and because it’s tucked away, it doesn’t add any visual clutter to the room. Plus, it’s a fun surprise when you close the door and reveal your secret stash of books!
- Bookcase in the Closet
Closet space is always at a premium in small bedrooms, but if you’ve got a little extra room, why not turn part of your closet into a mini library? You can fit a narrow bookshelf inside or mount some floating shelves on the closet walls.
This solution works especially well if you’re someone who doesn’t need a ton of hanging space for clothes. You can store your books inside the closet and keep your room looking neat and uncluttered. Plus, it gives you a designated spot for your book collection without taking up any additional floor space.
- Moveable Book Cart
Okay, book carts are seriously cute and so, so handy! If you don’t want to commit to a permanent bookshelf or if you’re the type who likes to read in different spots, a moveable book cart is the way to go. You can wheel it next to your bed when you’re ready to read or tuck it away in a corner when you need more space.
You can even personalize your cart with fun decorations, like string lights, a plant, or a cute little sign. The best part? It’s flexible. You can easily move it to another room or rearrange your bedroom without any heavy lifting.
- Floating Shelves to Maximize Wall Space
Let’s start with the obvious choice for small bedrooms—floating shelves! These are a lifesaver when floor space is tight because they don’t take up any valuable real estate. You can mount them above your bed, your desk, or even a reading chair, which helps to keep the floor clear while still providing a place for your favorite books.
Floating shelves come in all shapes and sizes, so you can have fun with the layout. You could create a staggered look with shelves at different heights or keep it simple with one long, sleek shelf above the headboard. And here’s the beauty of it: floating shelves can be as discreet or as bold as you want, depending on the finish you choose. Black shelves against a light-colored wall? Super sleek. Rustic wooden shelves? Cozy and homey. You get the idea!
- Corner Bookshelves
Corners are often neglected in small bedrooms, but they can actually provide some awesome storage opportunities! A corner bookshelf can make use of otherwise wasted space, adding functionality without crowding the room. You can find corner shelves that fit snugly into the corner, or even DIY a solution with floating shelves that meet at the corner of two walls.
Another idea is to go vertical—stack several shelves up in one corner of the room for a built-in, floor-to-ceiling library feel. Not only does this make the most of your space, but it also adds visual interest by drawing the eye upward, which can make a small room feel taller and more spacious.
- Use Shelves as Room Dividers
In a small bedroom, especially in studio apartments, you might want to separate your sleeping space from other areas of the room. Instead of using a bulky screen or curtain, why not let your bookshelf do double duty? A tall, open-back bookshelf can act as a room divider while still letting light flow through and keeping the room from feeling closed off.
The bonus here is that it provides extra storage space while creating defined zones within your room. You can fill the shelves with books, plants, and decorative items, making it not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. And, because it’s open, it won’t make the room feel smaller than it already is.
- Under-the-Bed Storage
Small bedrooms often mean you have to get creative with storage, and the area under the bed is prime real estate! If you’ve got a bed with space underneath, why not use it for your book collection? You can use low storage bins or baskets that slide out easily, or even look into beds that come with built-in drawers.
If you want something a little more open, consider using rolling crates or baskets. It’s functional, stylish, and super practical for a small bedroom. You can store books you’re not currently reading, leaving space on your nightstand for your current favorites.
- Built-in Bookshelves
Built-ins can be a game-changer in small bedrooms, especially if you’re short on floor space. Built-in bookshelves maximize every inch of space, offering a streamlined, custom solution that blends seamlessly with the room. You could have built-ins around the bed, framing the headboard, or around a window to create that dreamy window seat we all secretly want.
This setup looks polished and intentional, giving your bedroom a cozy, custom feel. And, because they’re built into the walls, you won’t lose any floor space, leaving more room for other essentials like a desk or dresser.
- Ladder Shelves
Ladder shelves are not only trendy but also super practical for small spaces. They’re slim, lightweight, and easy to move around, which makes them ideal if you like to switch up your room layout every now and then. Ladder shelves lean against the wall and have open shelving, so they don’t feel bulky or overwhelming in a small room.
You can place a ladder shelf next to your bed, use it as a nightstand alternative, or position it in a corner for a stylish storage solution. Not only can you stack books on the shelves, but you can also display plants, photo frames, or even a small lamp to create a functional and cozy setup.
- Bedside Table with Shelves
Why settle for a basic nightstand when you can have one that doubles as a bookshelf? A bedside table with built-in shelves lets you store your nighttime reading within arm’s reach while still serving its traditional purpose. You can stack a few books on the shelves and still have room on top for a lamp, your phone, or a glass of water.
Some bedside tables even come with multiple shelves, giving you extra storage without taking up much space. It’s a practical, space-saving solution that blends seamlessly into your small bedroom setup.
- Shelves Above the Desk
If you’ve got a desk in your small bedroom, why not maximize the space above it with some shelves? Shelving above the desk gives you a place to store your books without cluttering up the surface. It’s also the perfect spot to keep study materials or display some decor to add a little personality to your workspace.
You can mix in some office supplies or art prints to break up the books and create a more dynamic display. Floating shelves or mounted cubes both work great for this space, and they keep everything within easy reach.
- Transform a Window Sill into a Bookshelf
If you’ve got a wide window sill, it’s the perfect place to store a few books! Simply stack your books along the sill for easy access and a minimalist look. This is an ideal solution for rooms where floor and wall space are at a premium. It’s subtle but effective, keeping your books within reach without cluttering the room.
To make it cozier, you can even add a couple of cushions and turn it into a mini reading nook. Imagine sitting by the window with your favorite book and a cup of tea—doesn’t get much better than that!
- Over-the-Bed Storage Units
If you’re trying to maximize every bit of space, an over-the-bed storage unit might be the perfect solution. These units frame your bed and often come with a mix of open shelves and closed cabinets, giving you a ton of extra storage without needing any floor space.
You can use the shelving for books, decor, or even extra bedding, while the closed sections keep things tidy. This setup gives your room a streamlined, organized look while allowing you to store a decent amount of books right above your head.
- Slim Bookcases for Narrow Spaces
Sometimes all you need is a little creativity when it comes to narrow spaces. A slim bookcase can tuck into tight spots like the side of your wardrobe, next to a desk, or beside your bed without taking up too much room. The great thing about these thin units is that they still offer plenty of vertical storage space for books.
You can even find models with adjustable shelves, allowing you to tailor the height for larger books or small decor items. Slim bookcases are perfect for keeping things organized without making your bedroom feel cluttered or cramped.
- Modular Shelving Systems
For the ultimate flexibility, modular shelving systems allow you to customize your storage to fit your room’s exact dimensions. These units can be mounted on the wall and configured in various ways, depending on your needs. You can add more shelves or move things around as your book collection grows (because we all know it’s going to grow!).
Modular shelving can also double as decor. You can mix in books with other items like framed photos, artwork, or plants to break up the space and give it a more curated look. Plus, the ability to adjust the system means you can always change things up if your layout starts to feel stale.
- Hanging Bookshelves
If you’re running low on floor space but still want a bookshelf that adds charm, consider hanging bookshelves. These are shelves suspended by ropes, cables, or chains that can be mounted on the wall or from the ceiling. They have a cool, industrial vibe and can work in pretty much any small bedroom setting.
Not only do hanging bookshelves save floor space, but they also add a dynamic element to your walls. You can hang one above your bed, desk, or in a corner to hold a few books, along with small plants or personal items. They’re a fun, eye-catching way to store books and make the most of vertical space.
- Step Stool Bookshelf
Here’s a quirky and practical idea: turn a wooden step stool into a mini bookshelf! This works particularly well for a small bedroom where floor space is tight but you still want to have a few books nearby. You can stack books on the steps and even use the top step as a nightstand for your alarm clock or glass of water.
This not only saves space but also adds a rustic, functional element to the room. Plus, the step stool is portable, so you can move it around the room whenever you feel like changing things up. It’s a small, versatile option that adds a little charm to the space.
- Bookshelf Integrated into a Desk
If you’re working with a small bedroom and need a functional workspace, why not combine a desk and bookshelf into one piece of furniture? A desk with built-in shelves offers you the best of both worlds. You can keep your study or work essentials handy while also having room for your favorite books.
Many desks come with shelving units attached to the side or on top, allowing you to store books and decor items without taking up extra floor space. It’s a smart solution that keeps everything organized and compact, making the most out of every inch in your small bedroom.
- Bookshelf Above the Closet
If you’ve got high ceilings and a small bedroom, consider using the space above your closet for extra storage. Installing a long shelf or even a set of smaller ones above your closet can give you a hidden spot to store books without cutting into your floor space.
This setup works particularly well if you have some books you don’t need access to daily, but still want to keep on hand. Add some decorative bookends to keep everything neat, and voilà—an out-of-the-way storage solution that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing!
