Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is a good depth for a bookcase?
1 Answer
An ideal bookcase depth is usually between 10 and 12 inches. Shelf spacing can range from 7 to 15 inches for bookshelves, with 8 to 12 inches being the most typical. Because compact bookcases are designed for lesser volumes and libraries, they will be shallower. A small bookcase's depth is usually around 6 inches. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of antique and vintage bookcases.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
Shop for Shallow Bookcases on 1stDibs
Early 19th Century American Painted Bookcase
Located in Wiscasset, ME
An early American painted bookcase of nice shallow dimension. From either New York or New England
Category
Antique Early 19th Century American Colonial Bookcases
Materials
Wood, Paint
19th Century English Regency Ebonised Open Bookcase
Located in Gloucestershire, GB
with a single adjustable shelf. Originally designed as an open bookcase, and is shallow in depth. It
Category
Antique 19th Century Bookcases
Materials
Wood
Victorian Estate Bureau Bookcase
Located in Manchester, GB
A stunning Victorian estate bureau bookcase of very shallow proportions. We feel that this piece
Category
Antique 1890s English Victorian Bookcases
Materials
Oak
Unusually Designed Biedermeier Bookcase
Located in Long Island City, NY
Unusually crowned shallow Biedermeier armoire (bookcase) in matching mahogany on pine and oak. Two
Category
Antique 19th Century Austrian Biedermeier Bookcases
Materials
Oak
English George III Mahogany Gillows Glazed Bookcase, circa 1780
By Gillows of Lancaster & London
Located in Tetbury, Gloucestershire
This is a superb English George III mahogany satinwood and purple heart glazed bookcase of
Category
Antique 1780s English George III Bookcases
Materials
Glass, Mahogany, Purpleheart, Satinwood
