How to Build a Library Bookshelf--WITH DESK!

This DIY library bookshelf is my new favorite space in the house!
**This video was sponsored by Kreg Academy. Check out how to kickstart your woodworking journey on Kreg Tool 's online learning platform here: bit.ly/3jSQIWw
It's a shelf, it's a desk, it's got great storage, a rolling ladder, lights. This library bookshelf desk has it all and I'm so excited to show you how it came together in this video!
Grab the printable plans here: woodshop-diaries.myshopify.co...
And check out the written step by step tutorial here: www.woodshopdiaries.com/diy-l...
Follow Woodshop Diaries On:
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TikTok: / woodshopdiaries
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Pinterest: / sharamccuiston
SHOP NEW WOODWORKING TEES AND BUILDING PLANS HERE: woodshop-diaries.myshopify.com/
Some posts you might find helpful in the build:
How to cut plywood sheets: www.woodshopdiaries.com/cut-d...
How to use a pocket hole jig: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
How to apply iron on edge banding: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
How to build and install drawer boxes and slides: www.woodshopdiaries.com/there...
Information about shelf pins and shelf pin jigs: www.woodshopdiaries.com/must-...
How to paint, stain, or poly wood furniture: www.woodshopdiaries.com/how-t...
Tools and Materials:
*Affiliate links below
Tools:
Circular Saw: homedepot.sjv.io/AooaYx
Cutting guides: amzn.to/325pRR6
Miter saw: homedepot.sjv.io/yd96v
Table Saw
Drill/Driver: homedepot.sjv.io/Aoo6Ya
Pocket Hole Jig: amzn.to/32eoPBY
Shelf Pin Jig: amzn.to/3FbgZaZ
Finish (or brad) nailer: homedepot.sjv.io/c/1404662/116... OR homedepot.sjv.io/vn2RJv
Materials:
(7) sheets ¾″ plywood: homedepot.sjv.io/9rR95
(1/2) sheet ¼″ plywood: homedepot.sjv.io/RyZY4R
(7) 1x3x8 boards
(2) 1x6x8 boards
(3) 1x4x8 boards (preferably a hardwood--for ladder)
18' crown molding (3 5/8" used here, but you can use other sizes if needed/desired): homedepot.sjv.io/ZdBPXW
12' half round molding or lattice trim (optional): homedepot.sjv.io/5bYXAD
(4) pair 16″ drawer slides: amzn.to/3fOX9aB
1 ¼″ pocket hole screws: amzn.to/3FKfikk
1 ¼″, 2", and 2 1/2" wood screws
Wood Glue: amzn.to/3rBr5fW
Edge Banding--3/4" and 1 1/2" wide: amzn.to/3q7dI6f & amzn.to/3FNI4Az
(4) handles/knobs for drawers: amzn.to/33SKTDc
2″ screws & washers (for securing ladder to rollers)
Wood Putty/Filler: amzn.to/32kDvQw
12' barn door hardware kit: amzn.to/3nLKnxX
Sconce Lights: amzn.to/3FPuRHw
Shelf pins: amzn.to/3e3rtNN
Clear coat poly: amzn.to/3rCS4HJ

[@user26344]

This channel is incredible. The validation that quality and aesthetic home furniture doesn't have to be bought is priceless!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I really appreciate that and am glad you enjoy the channel and videos!

[@diyhuntress]

I literally have zero use for a rolling ladder, but i feel like after watching this I need one immediately. Looks so good! 😍

[@kylielinae]

I know the feeling.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I feel like every one needs a rolling ladder somewhere in the house haha! Thanks so much Sam!

[@johnnyutah1053]

Exactly!

[@augustineschaefer5522]

Every little project we take on where we have to math, problem solve and think out decisions will keep our minds fresh. I love the half round fix. All you all keep doing yea?

[@docdoctme]

I am addicted to your channel. You are my inspiration in carpentry. I want to build my own pieces without having thousands of dollars in tools. You make projects doable for the novice. The bookshelf came out beautifully especially with the ladder. Thanks for sharing your talent.

[@SawdustmakerLori]

Your project turned out awesome!!! Of course, best of all is the picture of Lucy! You have a wonderful work area now that looks great and will be so useful.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

So glad you liked the picture of Lou. It makes me smile whenever I sit down to work 😊 thanks so much for watching 💕💕 and have a great weekend!

[@callynt]

I just drew a rough draft of something similar for my home office last night, and was going to use a few of your videos as a guide. Now I can use this one! It's gorgeous!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Awww awesome! I’m so glad this was (hopefully) helpful! Happy building! 🙌😊

[@scottmorris4914]

Thats a great build. With a new house, you definitely have LOTS of opportunities for projects for this channel. Looking forward to seeing them.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I appreciate you following along! I have sooooo many projects in the to do list. I’ll stay busy for years 🙈😅😅 I hope you enjoy them!

[@robertevans6481]

It looks awesome. And the print of Lucy and the ladder sets it off.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! Haha Lucy is the center of attention around here. It’s only fitting she have her portrait in my office 😂

[@TPoPArt]

I love it and the beautiful picture of Lucy! As a short person, I would love something with a ladder.

[@MCsCreations]

Beautiful work, Shara! Really amazing looking bookshelf! 😃 The ladder turned out great! Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! So glad you enjoyed and I really appreciate you watching! Have a great weekend!

[@yourunclesam6780]

Fantastic ,amazing proyect,weel done,talented girl.Thank you

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much for watching! I’m glad you enjoyed the project 😊

[@christophermckinney984]

I get so excited when I see a new video from you!! The desk area is beautiful!! (Oh yeah…and FIRST! 😉)

[@WoodshopDiaries]

This makes my day! Thank you so much! I’m so glad you enjoy the videos…I really appreciate you watching!

[@davidmajersky1969]

Awesome video, my day isn't complete till I watch one of your videos :)

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I really appreciate that and am glad to hear you enjoy the videos 😊 thanks for watching!

[@estherfilip3275]

You are such a great teacher! Not only do you do such amazing work, but your willingness to help other so these projects is amazing!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I really appreciate that! My goal is to help and inspire others to give these projects a try so I’m glad you enjoy them!

[@nobuckle40]

Nice clean modern look. And so easy to build! I'm so glad that you design your projects so that a common person can build them. Thanks you.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I try and keep it as simple as possible. I’m so glad you enjoy and thank you for watching!

[@susanfrombflo8368]

No way! I'm planning one of these for the livingroom (1975 split level ranch with mansard roof). Great timing!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Awesome! I hope this was helpful 😊 happy building!

[@Me-lb8nd]

Beautiful cabinets and beautiful cat!

[@johnkelley9877]

I think this is one of your most impressive projects for size and beauty. The book shelf has the look of a library and I like the way you hooked up the lights. Thanks for sharing this.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I appreciate that! So glad you enjoyed it. I definitely think this may be my favorite build so far!

[@WillysPerformanceCycleCtr]

A great set of built-ins! I like the office desk and bookshelf combination. Very well planned and, as always, a detailed, yet simple step by step set of instructions. Your builds make my day! Lucy makes an adorable centerpiece! Thanks and I hope you’re having a great weekend! The weather is really cold today here in the Middle Tennessee. brrrrr…. Hope it’s warmer up your way!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I really appreciate you watching and glad you enjoyed! Lucy is my inspiration when I want to quit 😂 I remember I have to pay for her food so I keep going ha! I hope you have a great weekend and stay warm over there!

[@multifaceteddani8261]

How did you know I’ve been planning to build a custom library with rolling ladder?! 😍😍😍

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Great minds must think alike 😉😂

[@Grampiswoodshop]

This looks AMAZING Shara!! ❤

[@jorgearenas872]

Thanks Shara for sharing... You are a good example for those who are learning to work wood...Greetings from Medellín, Colombia!!!!

[@vivaladolcevita10]

Rolling ladder hardware has to hold your weight as well...part of the reason why it's more expense. Great job on the built in. Great tips. One thing that could have made the face frame seamless...is to add it after installing the shelves. I really like your new work space.

[@craiggoodwin9704]

Shara, your project is awesome. Certainly a lot of work. I would say you really gave ypur new workshop and all your tools a real workout. I didn't see Lucy in your video (except the picture). I hope she is alright. You have so much content I had to watch twice to soak it in. I may have to watch again! Thanks for Sharing!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I shared a small project last week because this project was so huge 😂 Lucy is well, but it was pretty chilly while I was working on this, so she stayed inside a lot haha. I did cram a lot of info in a (semi) short video…I didn’t want to miss any details 😊 glad you enjoyed and I appreciate you watching and following along!

[@MsMeri1969]

I want to build some built-ins around my fireplace. I can modify what you did and make it my own. Thank you so much for showing and giving us some inspiration for our dyi projects! Looks great and nice to see your other special guest stars could drop in for their appearance. 🥰

[@vs77mail]

Great job! looks fantastic and I loved the leader idea. Have fun using your new workspace. Thanks for sharing.

[@pmapaez]

I really liked this build, especially the ladder. Awesome

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! The ladder is definitely my favorite part haha

[@TheBeerbelly007]

Another nice looking project Shara---

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I appreciate you watching!

[@tree_carcass_mangler]

Great project and video. The ladder turned out great, and barn door hardware was a really good alternative. And good problem solving too. Thumbs up and thanks for sharing, Shara!

[@davidsavage2650]

I'm enjoying watching your skills, both video and woodworking, progressing. Getting better every single time. I also love the white trim contrasted with the natural finish. Keep it up!

[@joelcopeland3018]

Great looking build. I really like the ladder feature. Well done.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I think the ladder may be my favorite part! 😍

[@ephraim.1964]

Love the build. Excellent job!! 👏🏼👏🏼❤️

[@timcampbell4267]

Great build! We moved into a 75 year old house that has a lot of possibilities, and I see a desk/bookcase in our home office. The way you break down your large projects into simple components make them a lot less intimidating for a DIY’r. And thanks for the tip on using barn door hardware !

[@amandaemerson4466]

Beautiful shelves and desk. Love it.

[@pteddie6965]

This is a great looking unit, Shara. Your instructions and explanations were clear and easy to follow. I can tell that I am going to enjoy you and DIY Huntress customize and transform your new homes. Thanks for sharing this video and the plans and cut list.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much! I’m also so excited to watch Sam renovate her new home! She’s amazing!

[@JasonDiggs]

Very impressive work!

[@AngieWilliamsDesigns]

This looks amazing. I love how it loooks.

[@azza1793]

That is a gorgeous build and i really like the contrast between the white face frame and the plain plywood.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much. I had such a hard time deciding on white or black but I am really happy with the brightness of the white in this room. But I love keeping the natural wood to add some warmth 😍

[@BriceFernandes]

That’s a lovely build, straight forward and the finished result looks great. Thank you for the detailed instructions too, super clear!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I appreciate you watching!

[@candicewhitton1006]

Love how this turned out! I'm a new subscriber and have loved watching your videos! My husband and I started our own wood business in 2020 mainly making wood signs. We did build our own headboard and bed frame as well as redo our kitchen table, but your videos are definitely inspiring me to try more furniture builds! I think my first one will be the basic modern shelf for my daughters room!

[@broakland2]

Bravo Sara, well done!

[@aligned4good]

I LOVE everything about this build!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed!

[@MrAlbrimm]

Great ideas and great execution! Can’t wait for your next project.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I appreciate you following along! Thanks so much for watching!

[@Sammowrimo]

I love it - considering using this design for my office reconfig!!!! It’s beautiful and I neeeeed the rolling ladder 👌🏻

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Yesss! Happy building! Also, the ladder is definitely my favorite part haha 🙌

[@eidmosad6794]

Your work is fantastic 👏

[@brandilewis3498]

This is beautiful! Once again your design is incredible! 🤩🤩

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much!!

[@Jones572]

Verrryy cool🤙🏾💯. No home should be without one after seeing yours😁…Awesome!

[@brewster3987]

Love the proportions of this! Plus... ya know it's cold in the shop when you have to bring things inside to paint them 🥶

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! You got that right…That was a actually a snow day when I painted 😂 it was 20 outside and we got 6 inches of snow 🙌

[@Ray_Sellner]

Well done Shara. I find it helpful to use a couple of clamps when working with very long pieces. Beautiful project.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I appreciate you watching 😊

[@maryb1618]

Great video (as per usual). I have a smaller space and had been dreading it - now I know how to tackle it, build it as two bookshelves then face frame over both. Will definitely add the rolling ladder!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

I’m so glad this gave you some ideas for your project! Happy building! 😊

[@JamiSwanBeauty]

Looks amazing!!!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much!! I appreciate you watching!

[@denizdenuzdonoz]

You are so coool! 💪Loved your work here, it is amazing

[@mikecolo2158]

Wow that is nice. The proportions are on point! Thanks for another inspiring video.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

So glad you enjoyed! Thanks so much for watching!

[@johnv3788]

Very cool! Now to get enough money to buy the tools and wood lol!

[@sddiymakeitworthit7512]

Lady that’s awesome job really beautiful 👍

[@WoodshopDiaries]

You’re so kind. Thank you!!

[@albinarosenfeld9017]

I love it ❤ thank you ❤

[@jjs811]

You always have the best ideas! Thanks for sharing.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

You’re so kind. Thank you so much for watching!

[@jodiepalmer2404]

This is what I have in mind for my desk. But I do not want the 2 Bookcases yet only the middle part. I've downloaded your plans and I need to make some adjustments to fit the desk in the space I have at the moment. I wanted a desk with the shelves on the ends because I wanted to fit my TV in the middle. As well as, using the right side drawers empty to fit my PC in it.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

It sounds like you’ve got a great project planned for your space! I appreciate you watching and wish you happy building as you start building this out! 🙌

[@lynjermey6423]

Looks absolutely gorgeous.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@jtotheb-ip2hh]

rockin'. very nice.

[@raymondjones7489]

I really like the ladder!!👍😎

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Definitely my favorite part! 😉😂

[@jasonthomas1760]

Looks awesome Shara! I love built-ins , but I hate clutter lol. Also I'm curious, am I the only one who loves a build while I'm building it. But hate it once it's done? Happens to me every time. Maybe I just enjoy the process more than the outcome, I'm sure my therapist would have a comment or 2 lol. Keep warm and keep rocking it!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you! I do the opposite-I hate it every step of the process and when it’s done I love it. I had multiple breakdowns while building this and almost threw it away several times just because I didn’t know if I liked it or not and I couldn’t decide on paint colors and whether to add the lights and ladder 😂 it was chaos. But when it was done I was like okay yeah I love it. Maybe I just hate the process. We need to trade 😂 anyway thanks so much for watching! I hope you have a great weekend!

[@Bekim8310]

Another beautiful build Shara! Pretty soon you'll be building houses!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Haha I don’t know about houses 😂 but I’ve got tons more furniture to build 😅

[@timdyer7692]

Very nice bookshelf and desk! You did a fantastic job! The lights look great too, good idea! Keep up the good work.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I’m glad you like the lights. I debated on whether I should add them or not and finally decided to go for it haha

[@only_visiting]

You make really beautiful stuff.

[@goodlawyer1813]

That is awesome!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you!!

[@pocket83squared]

Quite an accomplishment! Unfortunately, I'm just now entering the planning stage for my library wall, so thanks for the ideas ;)

[@carmenponcedeleon2693]

This is EXACTLY what I needed to see! I’m trying to figure out if I should purchase an ikea pantry or build my own pantry with library ladder!

[@andrewskitoyukak48]

Awesome job! Still a perfect fit to the space👍🏼

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much!

[@rosecityremodel2015]

Brilliant!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you 👍

[@JamesDeese]

First, this project is beautiful. I love built-ins. I guess it goes back to my love of all things Frank Lloyd Wright. Second, this was a very well-planned and executed project.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Haha thanks so much! I really appreciate you watching and glad you enjoyed 😊

[@fabianvalderassur]

Eres maravillosa, saludos desde Chile 🇨🇱

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@IEnjoyCreatingVideos]

Nice job Shara! Thanks for sharing the video with us!💖👍😎JP

[@leticiaruvalcaba-arballo3181]

You’re so creative, love your set up.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much! I appreciate you watching!

[@sameeralazawee7524]

Really very nice >>>>>>> Thank you

[@rodcormier7428]

Looks awesome... always enjoy design of furniture style... thanks for the video :)

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I really appreciate you watching!

[@dawnb3618]

This is an amazing build...LOVE IT!!! Shara, I'm in love with the chair as well! Any info on that would be great too!! The addition of your photo of Lucy is gorgeous and I love that you did it in black and white. It's perfect for the space!!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you!! Lucy is black and white so when I edited it, the only thing that changed color was her collar 🙈😂😂 she fits into the decor around here ha! I got my chair from Home Goods! 😊

[@lindaburgundy5301]

Great accomplishment beautiful shelving unit

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@DavePettittVoiceOver]

Love this build. Have you ever looked into wireless, rechargeable smart lights? There are so many options now.

[@81Sevit]

Beautiful desk area. Like the design.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you so much!

[@yotambelgoroski9558]

One of your best pieces!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

So glad you enjoyed it! 🥰

[@emaildavidlehman]

Beautiful!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you 👍

[@marcusdavis8650]

Beautiful that is so awesome!!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much!

[@JaskaranSingh-rn7sk]

Very sleek ✨💯

[@vladv.8819]

Beautiful... very good job!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much!

[@makermikesizer]

Gorgeous. So nicely done. :)

[@jlevy173]

Such a great build!!!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you 👍

[@CrankyPantss]

Great job. That looks awesome.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much! I appreciate you watching!

[@stevedockery3534]

Great work girl. You've given me a lot of ideas for a nice desk area. Steve

[@WoodshopDiaries]

So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@Discovery123.]

The crown moldings make a lot of difference.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Trim always makes the piece!

[@TxStang]

very nice , has a classy look to it

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much!

[@arrynhahn1484]

LOVE IT

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much!

[@debbiecasalina4475]

Wow, beautiful, I would love to be able to do that!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you!! You could totally do this if you wanted! One small piece at a time…just takes a little patience and a few tools 😊

[@cswatson4823]

Nice.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank you 👍

[@FritsvanDoorn]

Hej great! That is very inspirational as I am thinking about making one for myself but didnt know how. Thank you.

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Awesome! Glad this was helpful! Happy building!

[@GirlJustDIY]

This looks so great, I love the library ladder. If you have kids one day (besides Lucy 🤣🐶) it'll be hard to keep them off of it 😅

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks friend! Haha no plans for kids, but that’s a good point-probably need to take it off or install locking wheels if I did 😅

[@danielecacioppo9225]

Sei bravissima complimenti

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@LifeOnShiloh]

Wow!

[@DrunkInPublic]

Abbbbbbbbsoooolutttley Beautiful!!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

Thank youuuuu! 😉😅

[@bobbysharp]

Speaking of Lucy, what bread is she? She seems to have a great disposition. Great project as always. I bet your loving that new shop!!

[@WoodshopDiaries]

She is the best mutt I’ve ever met haha. We don’t know what she is. She was dropped at the factory I used to work at and we brought her home. We think she has some GSP but not 100% sure.