Traditional shelving units can only store so many books. Is it time to renovate? Storage space experts explore the new designs that Illinois schools are embracing for their libraries.
Your school’s library isn’t fit for purpose if nobody can move around between the shelves. And as any librarian knows, libraries get pretty busy around exam time. Or any time. Whether midterms or finals are creeping up, students will pack libraries in their hundreds as they access the resources available to them. What’s the best way to maximize your library’s floor space? Experts suggest that your shelving units could use a makeover. Here are the best designs they’ve seen this year.
Today’s storage options are customizable in line with your library’s needs. And most modern libraries are looking to make their working environment more functional. That’s exactly why so many have opted for concealed caster features in 2025.
These allow shelving units to shift between stationary and mobile as needed. From fixed-in-place to books-on-wheels, there shouldn’t be any obstacle preventing you from arranging your library how you want.
One shelving designer, Bradford Systems, has observed the results.
“Flexibility is key to a space’s versatility, that’s why a library’s stationary shelving doesn’t always have to be stationary. Heavy-duty concealed casters (wheels) are available for all shelving units to turn these already versatile library shelves into mobile carts, meaning your library’s space is completely reconfigurable on the fly by staff.”
Most modern libraries contain far more than books. In other words, standard bookshelves just won’t do when students are visiting in search of multimedia. One solution? A-frame shelving can store (and display) whatever your library is offering, whether that’s:
Modernizing your library doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the building’s traditional look. With so many years of history in these aisles, there’s no reason to take everything into the 21st century.
It’s no wonder libraries are choosing cantilever designs. These make an adaptable aesthetic setup more than possible, and your shelving units can benefit. According to experts, such shelving designs can be implemented into your existing bookcases to upgrade your library’s storage with ease. Even better, you can bring in LED lighting and custom end-panels for added visual flair.
Why should your school’s library be stuck in the past? The age of information is only adding to the resources that libraries are expected to store - both physically and digitally. And new shelving designers can help maximize your floor space while making it even easier for students to browse and explore.
