A finished home needs a great bookcase

A bookcase is as essential to a home as a bed or a sofa (or in my case, the TV). It's the place you store and show off your favorite books, of course, but it's more than that. The accessories you use to fill in the spaces between the books and the way you arrange all the contents say much about you.

Are the shelves cluttered with picture frames, books, vases and nick knacks, each with its own story and memory?

Are they filled with tomes and the journals that represent your career? Is the space sparse, with a few carefully placed, precious items, a sign of the streamlined, uncluttered modern design you cherish?

Regardless of how you fill the shelves, though, it helps to start with a fantastic piece of furniture.

Above left is the Libri shelving system available through the Hightower Group. It was designed by Michael Bihain from Stockholm and awarded the Forum AID #1 Award at the Stockholm Furniture Fair as the top new product introduction of 2008. Two are shown. Each is $1,295.

In the middle is Pottery Barn's Collins Room Divider, available in antique white or mahogany stain, as seen here. This photo shows two pieces. Each costs $1,199.

At the lower left is the Spine Book Tower from JCPenney, which features 12 shelves that essentially disappear as you fill them with books. It costs $129.

There are so many choices, one to fit every decor. Check out some of the bookcases I've scouted. Some cost a little more, some a little less and a few are available right here in metro Indianapolis.

1.  The Bravo Bookcase from Macys, $1,299   2. The BERGSBO bookcase with glass doors from IKEA, $279   3. The Boom - Metro Multi Shelves Set from 2modern, a set of stacking units, $715   4. The Delaney Bookcase in white from Target, online and in stores, $89.99    5. The Brave Space Bamboo Stagger from 2modern, $2,975    6. Fretted Folding Shelves Tall from Pier 1, $169