Mack + Milo’s offering is full of Scandi charm with a nod to mid-century modern design. It is a functional bookcase with six generous and adjustable shelving spaces as well as a solid back, which holds books securely if the unit isn’t precisely flush to the wall. We loved the contrast between the unit’s white interior and its pale blond wood exterior, which gives the illusion of more space. We’re given 40cm of extra floor space, too, as the Arlo is elevated with elegant angled legs. Stylish and practical.

This is a sturdy and functional bookcase with a brick-like pattern of open and enclosed storage spaces – and it manages to be utterly glamorous in the process. It’s crafted from a rich mango wood that has a natural golden shimmer in its grain. This catches the light and beautifully complements the unit’s brass insets. How much of the shiny metallics you want on show depends entirely on how you intend to fill the piece up: this one looks great with the odd house plant and objects breaking up the book spines.

Ladder style bookshelves are as popular as ever – but they’re not all created equally. By its very nature, this is a design that’s made to look casually propped against the wall. Holding a good weight of books and decorative objects, you’ll want to ensure it’s a sturdy furniture piece that belies its laid-back look. The calia, with its industrial welded iron frame and its solid American oak shelves, is as sturdy as they come. Increasing in both size and maximum capacity from top to base, the shelves offer a versatility that allows us to get creative with our display.

This is an architectural bookcase that features the fluid look of a modular shelving unit with its backless design and asymmetrical storage spaces – but it does come in one piece. What we loved most about this one was its surprising contrast between hard-edged industrial materials and a light and airy form. The “tickety” comprises a hand-welded metal frame with an aged gunmetal finish, and rustic shelves crafted from solid reclaimed fir, awarding it points on sustainability. Integrated metal bookends will hold your tomes firmly in place.

Sometimes all you need is a shorty when it comes to book storage. This small but mighty number is from the brand that specialises in stylish furniture pieces made from 100 per cent solid hardwood. Mixing open and enclosed storage space, the warm oak unit offers a homely, traditional feel with a mid-century edge. We loved the arresting parquet patterning on the front of the drawer, alongside the chunky wood pull handles and the tapered, angled legs. Thanks to its diminutive stature, this one offers a handy surface on top, too.

A sculptural space saver, the Cyril, despite its slender silhouette, holds a good number of books. This is thanks to its dual-faceted design, which allows you to create an attractive display that looks great at every angle – play around with vertical and horizontal books for added interest. Ideal for smaller spaces, it sits snugly in the corner of the room but it is no wallflower. The unit, which comes flat packed, is made from a decent manufactured wood and is available in a small range of neutrals alongside a bright burgundy if you want to add a colour pop to your corner.

This is another space saver of a bookcase, thanks to its slimline design. Yet at 180cm in height, it’s both imposing and offers plenty of storage with five adjustable shelves creating six generous spaces for books and ornaments. Painted in a tasteful light grey with the shelves and top in contrasting natural waxed oak, it is one elegant furniture piece. We found it suits living rooms, bedrooms and even kitchen spaces (the perfect home for our growing collection of cookbooks). Expect high craftsmanship from this company.

Another ladder style bookcase, only this time offering a sleek and stylish mid-century aesthetic, the wooden Jessie is finished in pale oak veneers and offers extra storage space by way of a nifty cupboard. We loved the tray-like shelves, which kept our books, bits and bobs in place, while the cupboard comes in handy for tidying away those things we don’t want on show. Due to its slender design – and of course its height – this one needs to be firmly attached to the wall.

Our most affordable pick comes from this family-focussed interiors brand whose furniture offering is always thoughtfully designed, simple and stylish. And the backless Haas bookshelf in natural pine is no exception. The piece offers six generous shelves, including an open one at the top, which is ideal for trailing house plants. Thanks to its fuss-free design and its pale blond hue, the bookcase feels wonderfully light and airy. One for kids’ rooms and grown-up spaces alike.

If a sprawling book wall is the dream, you don’t have to employ a carpenter to get the classic look. Offering both functional cupboard space and stylish modular shelving is this seriously impressive furniture piece from The Dormy House. It’s made from MDF and is available in a range of nature inspired paint finishes including rain cloud, smoked shale and pure breeze. It’s also customisable with a 26-strong menu of cupboard door handles to choose from, pulling the look in either contemporary or traditional directions. We loved the versatility of this piece. And unlike a bespoke fitted library, we can take it with us when we move.