Organising My Home Library, My Way

Organising my home library has been on my to-do list for what feels like forever, but recently, my son Nate gave me the perfect nudge to get started. Thanks to his push, I finally tackled this VIT (Very Important Task) and turned my book collection into something both beautiful and functional.

Before the makeover!

If you don't have a Nate to help get the ball rolling, here are a few other ways to motivate yourself to dive into this rewarding project:

1. Break it down into small steps

Sometimes the hardest part of any task is just getting started. By breaking the process down into manageable chunks—like sorting one shelf at a time—you'll be amazed at how quickly things come together. Set a timer for 20 minutes and commit to working just that long each day.

2. Choose your organisational method

There are so many ways to organise a home library, and I went with the colour-coded option because it makes my shelves look vibrant and cohesive. But if you'd prefer something a bit more practical, here are a few alternatives:

• By genre: Sorting books by genre can make it easier to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or something more specific like biographies or fantasy.
• By author: Arranging books alphabetically by the author’s last name is a classic, no-fuss way to keep everything tidy.
• By size: Grouping books by size can give your shelves a neat, uniform look, especially if you have a mix of hardcovers and paperbacks.

3. Get creative with your space

No matter how much (or how little) room you have, there are always ways to make your library space work for you. If you’re short on space, consider using vertical shelving or even repurposing a corner with floating shelves. You can also add decorative elements like plants or artwork to bring some personality to your library.

Don't forget the final touches!!

After you've sorted your books and arranged them just how you like, it’s time to add some finishing touches. Consider mixing in personal items like photos, candles, or a comfy chair to create the perfect reading nook. A spot for a teapot and your favourite mug / cup is also a must! And if you're tech-savvy, you might want to digitise your collection with an app to keep track of what you own.

Tackling this project has been such a fun and satisfying experience for me, and I owe Nate big time for giving me that extra push to finally do it. Now, every time I look at my colourful, well-organised shelves, I get a little burst of joy.

So whether you're inspired by a family member or simply ready to take the plunge, organising your home library can be the perfect blend of creativity and practicality. Ready to start? Dive in, and happy organising!