Literary love

As more people look to disconnect from technology, the art of reading and curating a home library is set to be a major trend

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Do you remember “reading time” in school? Whether you loved it or loathed it, those intentional pauses provided a quiet escape into another world, teaching us to still our minds and be present in the moment.

As we grow older, that sense of stillness is often replaced by endless scrolling or streaming. If you can relate, you’ll be glad to know a quiet literary revolution is taking place.

The at-home library is making a comeback, merging design, function, and nostalgia into a space that encourages slow living and intellectual engagement.

“The rise of BookTok, a vibrant literary community on TikTok, has played a huge part in the home library trend,” says Amanda Gauthier, director of print experience at Indigo. “It’s become much more about the physical experience of reading, including the perfect setting. Readers want to carveout a space that isn’t inherently tied to work or productivity but rather lends itself to immersive reading.

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”Beyond aesthetics, bookshelves filled with meaningful reads create a distinct intellectual statement. Studies even show that children raised in book-filled homes develop stronger literacy skills, reinforcing the long-term value of a curated library,” continues Gauthier.

Whether you have a dedicated room or a nifty nook, crafting a functional and inviting home library requires thoughtful organization, strategic lighting, and design-driven solutions.

Not every home has space for expansive shelving, but even unused hallways, stair landings, or under-window alcoves can be transformed into stylish book displays.

“Incorporating a library into small spaces requires careful planning to avoid overwhelming the room. One effective strategy is to go vertical and embrace height by installing full-wall bookshelves that maximize storage while minimizing footprint,” explains Dorothy Tsui, co-founder and creative director of Bobeche Interiors.

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A well-designed library is more than just a collection of books—it should feel warm, lived-in, and personal. “Books should always be the heart of a library, but incorporating a few decorative elements helps personalize the space,” says Tiffany Leigh, principal designer of Tiffany Leigh Design.

“A small collection of primitive vases, an antique sculpture, or a treasured heirloom can add depth.” Beyond decor, lighting plays a pivotal role in making a library feel both inviting and practical. “One of the most important mistakes to avoid is insufficient lighting,” says Tsui.

“If you want to read comfortably, make sure you have task lighting that provides focused illumination where you need it.”

Thoughtfully placed sconces, table lamps, or built-in bookshelf lighting can elevate the atmosphere, ensuring the space remains cozy and functional. A home library should feel effortless, not overwhelming, and organization is essential to achieving that balance.

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“The key to organizing any space is ensuring it works for you,” says Ivanka Siolkowsky, owner and professional home organizer of The Tidy Moose. “There’s no universal approach — your library should align with your lifestyle and how you interact with your books

Siolkowsky suggests arranging books by genre, colour, or size — but stresses that shelves should feel intentional, never overcrowded. Maintaining a library is a continuous process rather than a one-time project.

Regularly refining your collection ensures books remain a source of inspiration, not clutter. “A good rule of thumb,” says Siolkowsky, “is that if you haven’t touched a book in over a year, it may be time to donate or pass it on.”

A yearly review helps cultivate a thoughtful selection, ensuring each title earns its place on the shelf. At its core, an at-home library should be a reflection of its owner. Whether filled with travel books, art monographs, or well-loved classics, the collection should bring joy and creative inspiration.

“A library should tell the story of its owner,” says Leigh. “Instead of purely decorative books, I love shelves filled with titles that reflect a homeowner’s passions — colorful spines and well-loved pages showcasing a life well lived.

”The home library trend isn’t just about storage — it’s about crafting a space that fosters connection, creativity, and quiet reflection. A thoughtfully designed library or book nook serves as a timeless retreat, proving that in 2025 and beyond, the love of books is here to stay

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