How to Add an Additional Shelf to a Bookcase

How to Add an Additional Shelf to a Bookcase
Published: May 5, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

With just a few simple steps and a minimal number of tools, a bookcase can be brought to life and add greatly to the overall warmth of the home decorations.

Things You Will Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Small carpenter’s square
  • Small nail
  • Claw hammer
  • Power hand drill
  • Drill bits
  • Masking tape
  • Post-style shelf hardware
  1. Determine the placement of the shelf by measuring the height of the largest item to be placed on the shelf and adding 1 inch for easy placement and removal. Also add the thickness of the new shelf to the overall measurement.

  2. Measure down, from the shelf above, on both the front and back of the inner sides of the bookcase, and mark the distance. Connect the marks on each side using the carpenter’s square. Measure in 1 inch on each side along the line, from the back of the bookcase and the front of the shelf, and mark the spot with a pencil.

  3. Tap the nail in 1/4 inch at each spot and gently remove with the claw hammer.

  4. Select a drill bit that is the same diameter as the post on the shelf hardware. Use the masking tape to mark the bit 1/16-inch more than the length of the post. Drill to the leading edge of the tape at each nail hole.

  5. Bookcase shelf.
  6. Press the post of the shelf hardware into each hole and position the new shelf.

The Drip Cap

  • Adding an additional shelf to a bookcase is among the best ways to expand display options inside a home.
  • Use the masking tape to mark the bit 1/16-inch more than the length of the post.

Photo Credits

teddy-bear image by Vitezslav Halamka from Fotolia.com

teddy-bear image by Vitezslav Halamka from Fotolia.com

Bookshelf 8 image by Tomasz Nowicki from Fotolia.com

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.