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4 Best Bookends to Perfectly Complement the Stories Between Them

Contributor Jessica Harris
Published December 26, 2024
Satisfying symmetry, for the voracious reader. Meet the best bookends, chosen by Jessica Harris, Living Spaces staff designer.
Prelude: before ‘adding to cart’ on the first heart-skipping pair you see (we know the urge is real!), we want you to know that these designs are more than just aesthetic. Chosen for weightiness — because, as the true bookworm knows, book collections can get heavy — and their whimsy, each item below has the avid reader in mind. Whether you need to add style to your shelf that’s as big and fun as the characters that live in your head, or simply want a functional prop that makes shifting an ever-growing library seamless and practical, these designer-approved favorites have your backs . . . or shall we say, books. While not the first purchase you may have in mind when shopping for a new home library or bookshelf, these unassuming tchotchkes give more value than you might think; even something slightly larger than the size of your hand can change the mood and personality of a small space, and create a sense of cozy pride for bibliophiles who love to spend time gazing at their tomes

Best Overall

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1. Sculptural People

Best Features: - heavy bookends, non-skid - minimalistic set of bookends - perfect accent to coffee table

Size: 5.35"W x 3.3"D x 9.75"H

Why It's Bookishly Perfect: "Form definitely catches the eye before function here. I'm always drawn to anything art-meets-decor, and this bronze-colored duo allows for a day of happy reading." - Jessica Harris, LS Designer

Featured Review: "The statues look great in my husbands new office. We love some of the amazing home decor at Living Spaces." - Amelia A

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2. Black Polystone Cat

Best Features: - modern bookends featuring 2 cats - unique bookends for a whimsical living room or home office

Size: 6"W x 4"D x 7"H

Why It's Bookishly Perfect: "I love improvising as much as the next designer, but sometimes, using a vase to hold up three hardcovers simply isn't enough. These cats will then enter the picture, and provide stylish support while doing so." - Jessica Harris, LS Designer

Featured Review: "Just love the whimsical vibe these little kitties give off. They look great on my bookshelf." - Kasil

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Best Accent Bookend

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3. Split Bicycle

Best Features: - heavy duty metal bookends - perfect bookstoppers for both its functionality and design - comes in gold / black metal to match your bookcase + office decors

Size: 6.5"W x 4.75"D x 9"H

Why It's Bookishly Perfect: "The gold finish works great in classical modern homes, and the bicycle design inspires just the right amount of wanderlust." - Jessica Harris, LS Designer

Featured Review: "Great product. Added some character to my small book collection and looks just as pictured." - Qualified Customer

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4. Split Wings

Best Features: - marble bookends for bookshelf

Size: 5.35"W x 3.3"D x 9.75"H

Why It's Bookishly Perfect: "Industrial but not too serious. And the intricate detail of the wings creates a vintage feel, and transforms the body of books into a literal winged creature. Perfect for fantasy or sci-fi readers." - Jessica Harris, LS Designer

Featured Review: "Perfect addition to my home as a flight attendant. Who doesn't love wings? Now it will dress up my book collection" - Katie Szymanski

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Wooden Bookends

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8 Inch Wood Bookend
$33
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5" White Marble Wood Minimalist Arch Bookends | 2 Piece | Curved
$27
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9" Gold Metal + Wood Split Bicycle Bookends
$41
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9" Black Metal + Wood Split Bicycle Bookends
$41
Quicklook
9 Inch White Wood Coastal Sail Boat Bookends Set Of 2
$48
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3 Piece Set Burlap Books
$49
Quicklook

What is the best material for bookends?

Heavy materials like metal, marble, or stone are ideal for supporting larger or heavier books, ensuring they stay upright. Wooden bookends are a great choice for a classic or rustic look, while acrylic or plastic options provide a modern and lightweight alternative. Consider the weight of your books and the aesthetic you're going for when choosing the perfect bookends.
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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.