Celebrate National Book Lovers Day!

Today is Book Lovers Day, and we wanted to share a few of our favorite tips on how to create the perfect reading space. Whether you’re setting up a two-story private library or a simple nook, here are eight tips to create a perfect hideaway reading space.

Dedicate the Space

This one might not be feasible, but if you can, make the splurge. Life is often chaotic, and for plenty of book lovers, reading is an intentional change of pace to take a step back from the mess. If this is you, be sure your reading space is only your reading space – don’t let it double as anything else. Set up curtains, a paneled divider, or even your bookshelves to enclose a specific area within your home. Designing a new home? Why not plan for an entire private library?

Shelving is Essential

This is a no-brainer: create shelving space! You need space for all the books you’ve read (or will read) and they need to be accessible! My bookshelf at home is quite tall, but the comfort books I go to time again are intentionally shelved lower down so I can reach them when I’m sitting in my reading chair or on the floor.

While fancy shelves in different shapes and designs are cool, don’t feel like your bookshelf has to be Instagram-perfect! Simple bookshelves are functional and easy to move – and they won’t break the bank.

Lighting is Key

While your reading sanctuary should be cozy and comfortable, it must also be well-lit. Overhead lights can be harsh, so natural lighting is key, along with soft lighting for those nighttime reading sessions (or if your nook is in a windowless area). If you can, install a dimmer to adjust the lighting as your mood (or the time of day or weather) sees fit!

Get Comfy

Sometimes standing up while reading is fun (it’s a learned skill necessary for public transport) but most of the time we want to lounge back, hang upside down off the couch, kick our feet up … you get the idea. The point is, most readers know you need a space that allows multiple resting positions, but is still comfortable.

Having a built-in bench covered with a small cushion and pillows works perfectly for readers that enjoy sitting upright or stretching out. On the other hand, an armchair with a deep seat means you can casually hook your leg over the armrest! Of course, pillows are necessary to rest your head, feet, or back on.

Grab a Blanket

Reading is a year-round sport, and that means sometimes you have to prep for inclement weather – maybe you like to keep the heat low during the winter, or crank the AC high in the warmer months. Regardless, keep at least one cozy blanket on hand to wrap around your shoulders when you can’t be bothered to put down your book and adjust the thermostat.

Space for Snacks!

It might be tempting to gather all of the softest pillows and blankets to create a reading nest, but trust me, you’re going to want at least one flat surface for snacks and drinks; we can’t survive on stories alone.

Whether you enjoy a morning reading sesh with a cup of tea, or munching on popcorn as you’re drawn into a thriller, set up a good table or shelf with a few coasters and napkins. The options here are limitless – a small side table with your lamp, a coffee table that doubles as a footrest, an empty space on your bookshelf with a coffee warmer, an empty bit of floor next to your nest of pillows. Want to go the extra mile? Put a mini-fridge and a snack basket right in your library or nook so you don’t have to go far when the munchies hit.

Organize the Area

This one is optional depending on what your reading space is like, but I’ve always found it useful to have a bit of storage space near or part of my nook. Whether that’s drawers below a built-in bench or decorative baskets or on a shelf, you need a place to put things away – blankets, pillows, the book you’re currently reading. If you have multiple people using the same reading space, this is also a great way to designate pillows and blankets. Plus, it makes for an easy cleanup when you have guests!

Generate Good Vibes

Reading should always be enjoyable, and that’s easier when you’re fully relaxed in your space. To generate good vibes within your reading space, try adding photos, playing relaxing music, or lighting a candle or incense. Your reading nook is made for you, so decorate it however is most beneficial.

Ready to tackle National Book Lovers Day? Share a photo of your reading space with us on social media, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!