Books by the foot are sold by the length of shelf space their spines fill, rather than by an exact number of books. They are useful when you are decorating a home office, staging a room, or filling a bookcase with a coordinated color palette.
Measure the space you actually want to fill
Measure the usable width inside each shelf. Subtract space for bookends, objects, and any gaps you want to leave. Divide the remaining inches by 12 to estimate the number of linear feet of upright books.
For example, a 36-inch shelf with 12 inches reserved for a plant and open space leaves 24 inches for books: two linear feet. A half foot means six inches of shelf length. Book thickness varies, so a linear foot is not a promise of a fixed book count.
Check height and depth as well as width
A bundle can fit the width of a shelf but still be too tall or deep. Measure the shelf opening and its usable depth before ordering. Check the product description for dimensions; if your shelf has a tight height limit, clarify sizing before purchase.
Choose a spine palette
Begin with the colors already in the room. White, beige, and brown can create a quiet background; blue, red, or mixed colors make a stronger focal point. Try one consistent color across several shelves, or repeat a smaller accent color in separate groups.
Color selections refer to the visible book spines. The sides of the covers can be different colors. Assorted bundles also vary in title, typeface, shade, and size, so expect a coordinated family rather than identical volumes.
Real books or decorative objects?
Our books by the foot and hardcover books by color use real books. Choose by appearance when styling; if you need particular reading titles, check whether a listing lets you select them. Sample photos do not guarantee the pictured titles.
Before ordering
- Measure shelf width, height, and depth.
- Choose the color and bundle size in the product options.
- Review condition and assortment details.
- Confirm whether you are buying individual books, a fixed count, or a measured length.
Shop decorative hardcover book lots. All orders include free U.S. shipping with no minimum purchase.