Short Bookcases

There is a range of short bookcases for sale on 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, mahogany and walnut, all short bookcases available were constructed with great care. There are 210 antique and vintage short bookcases for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 8 modern editions to choose from as well. Short bookcases have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. There are many kinds of short bookcases to choose from, but at 1stDibs, Georgian, Mid-Century Modern and Scandinavian Modern short bookcases are of considerable interest. Large short bookcases can prove too imposing for some spaces, so the smaller short bookcases available at 1stDibs — each spanning 10 inches in width — may make for a better choice. Cappellini, Nendo and Jan Van Der Togt each produced beautiful short bookcases that are worth considering.

Prices for short bookcases can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, short bookcases begin at $385 and can go as high as $969,714, while the average can fetch as much as $5,119.

Whether you proudly shelve your books in regal mahogany or behind glass cabinet doors, an antique bookcase — or perhaps more than one — is essential to creating a cozy nook for any book lover.

As long as curious people have collected stories, we have needed a place to stow them away and preserve them. When auction houses and book dealers proliferated by the late 17th century, the bibliophile was born. And, of course, as with any treasured decorative objects or collectibles, a book lover’s volumes were suddenly worthy of a luxurious display — enter the bookcase.

Americans of means during the 19th century took to amassing art as well as rare books, and bookcases of the era — rife with hand-carved decorative accents and architectural motifs — were ideal for displaying their handsome leather-bound wares.

Although our favorite titles may change over the years, the functionality and beauty of their home within our home is timeless. Even those who don’t covet the perfect home library can benefit from an attractive display case, as bookcases can easily double as charming étagères. 

Contemporary and customizable options make it easier for you to find the perfect bookcase for your style and stacks. If you don’t wish to fill your storage piece so that your collection is snug within its confines, incorporate extra space to allow for additional displays and decorative objects. And by introducing a striking dark wood Art Deco bookcase or low-profile mid-century modern design by Paul McCobb into your living room, your signed first editions won’t be the only items making a statement. 

Find barrister bookcases, Globe Wernicke bookcases, bookcases with doors and other vintage and antique bookcases on 1stDibs now.