Standard Bookshelf Dimensions
A standard bookshelf is 10–12 in (25–30 cm) deep, 72 in (183 cm) tall and 30–36 in (76–91 cm) wide per section, with about 11 in (28 cm) between shelves. Those numbers come from the size of books: most hardcovers are 9–10 in tall and 6–9 in deep. The tables below give the dimensions for each kind of book. The average bookshelf depth is 12 in, and a typical shelf depth for paperbacks is 6–8 in. For adjustable shelves, see how to drill shelf pin holes.
Bookshelf depth
| Contents | Shelf depth | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| Mass-market paperbacks | 6–8 in | 15–20 cm |
| Novels and most hardcovers | 10–12 in | 25–30 cm |
| Art, photo and coffee-table books | 12–14 in | 30–36 cm |
| Vinyl LP records | 13–14 in | 33–36 cm |
| Built-in bookcase | 12–16 in | 30–40 cm |
| Bookcase with cabinets below | 12 in above, 16–24 in below | 30 cm above, 40–60 cm below |
A deeper shelf is not always better: on a 16 in shelf, paperbacks disappear behind each other. If you mix books, make the case 12 in deep and keep the oversized books on the lowest, tallest shelves.
Space between shelves
| Books | Clear height between shelves |
|---|---|
| Paperbacks | 8–9 in (20–23 cm) |
| Most hardcovers | 11 in (28 cm) |
| Large hardcovers, binders | 12–13 in (30–33 cm) |
| Art books, LPs | 13–15 in (33–38 cm) |
| Bottom shelf | 14–15 in (36–38 cm) |
With adjustable shelves you do not have to decide in advance. Drill two columns of shelf-pin holes on each side, 32 mm (1 1/4 in) apart, and move the shelves when the collection changes.
Height and width
| Bookcase | Height | Width per section |
|---|---|---|
| Low / console | 30–36 in (76–91 cm) | 30–36 in |
| Medium | 48–60 in (122–152 cm) | 30–36 in |
| Standard tall | 72 in (183 cm) | 30–36 in |
| Extra tall | 84 in (213 cm) | 30–36 in |
| Built-in | To the ceiling | 24–36 in |
Fix any bookcase taller than about 30 in (76 cm) to the wall with an anti-tip strap or bracket, especially in a home with children.
How wide before shelves sag
The width of each section is set by how far a shelf can span without bowing under books. Shelves bend with the fourth power of their length and keep sagging for months under a steady load, much more in MDF and particle board than in plywood. For a 3/4 in shelf, 10 in deep, loaded with hardcovers:
| Shelf material | Stays flat up to | With a 3/4 × 1 1/2 in front strip |
|---|---|---|
| MDF or melamine | about 14–15 in (36–38 cm) | about 28 in (72 cm) |
| Pine or fir plywood | about 22 in (56 cm) | about 33 in (83 cm) |
| Birch plywood | about 26 in (66 cm) | about 35 in (88 cm) |
That is why sturdy bookcases use plywood shelves, a hardwood strip glued under the front edge, or a divider every 30 in or so. Check your own span and load:
Build one to your size
Our bookshelf plan is free: type the height, width, depth and number of shelves and it gives every part and the sheet layout.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard depth of a bookshelf?
10 to 12 in (25–30 cm). Paperbacks need only 6–8 in; art books and vinyl records need 13–14 in.
How far apart should bookshelves be?
About 11 in (28 cm) of clear space between shelves fits most hardcovers. Paperbacks need 8–9 in, tall art books 13–15 in.
How wide can a bookshelf be?
Each section is usually 24–36 in (60–90 cm) wide. The limit is sag: a 3/4 in plywood shelf loaded with hardcovers stays flat to about 22 in, and to about 33 in with a hardwood strip under the front edge.
What is the standard height of a bookshelf?
72 in (183 cm) is the most common. Low bookcases are 30–36 in, tall ones 84 in, and built-ins often run to the ceiling.
How thick should bookshelf shelves be?
3/4 in (18–19 mm) for most shelves, 1 in (25 mm) for long spans or heavy loads.