I finally pulled the trigger and got a TBR cart 🥰 so happy with how it turned out and how many books I could fit on it. I got a full shelf back and now my goal is to get to the point that my TBR is contained to the cart.
... Read moreGetting my new TBR cart has been a game-changer! I used to have books stacked everywhere, overflowing from my white bookshelves, and honestly, it felt a bit overwhelming. If you're anything like me, you probably have a growing pile of 'to be read' books that deserve their own special spot. That's exactly why I decided to invest in a grey three-tier rolling cart, and I couldn't be happier with the decision!
One of the biggest advantages of a dedicated TBR cart, whether you go for a rolling one or a stationary bookshelf, is visibility. Before, books like 'It Starts With Us' or 'Twisted Love' would get lost in my main shelves, forgotten amidst completed reads. Now, they're right there, staring at me, making it so much easier to pick my next adventure. I've heard some people even organize theirs by genre, mood, or even color, which is a fun idea I might try eventually!
If you're considering a TBR cart or revamping your TBR bookshelf, here are a few tips I've picked up:
Assess Your Pile: Take a good look at all the books you genuinely want to read soon. Don't just transfer everything! This is a great chance to declutter and perhaps let go of those impulse buys you're no longer interested in.
Consider Mobility: A rolling cart, like mine, is fantastic because I can move it from my bedroom to the living room, or even outside if I want to read in the fresh air. If you prefer a more permanent fixture, a small, dedicated bookshelf works wonderfully too.
Organize Smart: I found that stacking some books horizontally and others vertically helped maximize space. On my cart, I have a mix of hardcovers like 'Throne of Glass' and paperbacks like 'Happy Place'. You can create sections for new arrivals, highly anticipated reads, or even books for specific challenges.
Decorate (Slightly): While the main purpose is books, a tiny plant or a cute bookmark holder can make your cart feel even cozier and more inviting. It's about creating a reading nook on wheels!
Reclaim Your Main Shelves: This was a huge win for me! By moving my TBR pile, I instantly had more space on my main white bookshelves for displaying favorite series or creating aesthetically pleasing displays. It's amazing how much difference it makes.
For those who prefer a more traditional 'tbr bookshelf' setup, consider dedicating one or two shelves specifically for your unread treasures. You can still use the same organization principles. Perhaps one shelf for fiction, another for non-fiction, or even by author if you have many books by the same writer. I’ve seen some beautiful setups with books like 'Icebreaker' and 'The Love Hypothesis' proudly displayed, waiting to be devoured. The key is to make your TBR accessible and visually appealing, so it motivates you to actually pick up those books and read them. No more forgotten gems like 'Belladonna' or 'Powerless' languishing in a forgotten corner!
Ultimately, whether you opt for a sleek grey three-tier rolling cart or a dedicated section on your existing white bookshelves, the goal is the same: to make reading more inviting and your book collection more manageable. What strategies do you use for your TBR pile?
Half my shelfs would be empty! 😂 I might have a problem buying books faster than I can read them! 🤣