Even a Nook-carrying, digitally devoted iPad acolyte can appreciate a good home library.
Not simply a storage space for print products, a library is a classic (and classy), highly customizable escape from the real world, located conveniently in your home.
Below we’ve cataloged a few fun and functional products that will turn your library into a high-tech haven.
Smart Shelving
While there are some smart solutions to storing large amounts of books at home (see: high density shelving), the purpose of a home library is not simply storage.
Any dedicated collector will tell you that display is equally important—an opportunity to surround yourself, and soak in, your highly curated collection.
StorageMotion offers the best of all worlds: a storage solution with ample space that can be paired with home automation and designed to your specifications.
While primarily focused on wardrobe and kitchen spaces, StorageMotion provides highly customizable cabinetry, outfitted with rotating shelves.
Imagine: A floor-to-ceiling bookshelf in your preferred breed of tree that rotates to display the books that match your mood, or your company.
DIY Dewey Decimal
And how do you keep track of your extensive collection?
Enter Libib.
The home library cataloging system, available online and on your smart device, makes keeping track of your collection, be it books or blu-rays, a breeze.
Easily enter your collection via the app’s barcode scanner and Libib will do the rest, automatically retrieving all relevant information, including the cover art, for the new novel you’ve added.
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With a robust tagging system, you’ll be able to keep track of exactly where on your shelf the book you’re hoping to read resides. Let your neighbors borrow your Bukowskis with peace of mind, thanks to Libib’s lending support feature.
Given the connected characteristics of the system, we may not be too far off from a future where you can pair your Libib features to your StorageMotion cabinetry.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
While a library may be a lounge of literacy, it shouldn’t be to the exclusion of other forms of entertainment.
Still, there are elegant options to keep up the appearances of intellectualism.
Like the Seura Vanishing TV Mirror.
Enjoy the game, and at the touch of a button (or the entrance of a guest), admire your appearance—the visage of an individual wise enough to invest in a disappearing high-def display.
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Your Own Robotic Barkeep
Can you even enjoy the works of Flannery O’Connor without an Old-Fashioned?
Every library should include a liquor cabinet, or ideally, its own bartender, but pursuing this personnel-driven amenity would be prohibitively expensive.
That is until the Somabar.
The ability to mix drinks, and alter any aspect, from an app on your phone will rapidly elevate your library to the most popular room in the home, if not neighborhood.
Never Be Board
Libraries often incorporate an element of gaming, and while billiards is a popular option, it is a game that requires the physical presence of at least two individuals.
For those looking for a variety of intellectual entertainment beyond books, while maintaining the solitude afforded by the home library, chess is a solid choice.
And The DGT Revelation II may be your best board option.
Equipped for online play and loaded with the strongest opponent programs, the Revelation II will allow you to sharpen your skills with Queen, Knight and Pawn all in the peace and quiet of your personal space.