That’s the joy of books.
But they can be a nightmare to sort through.
Fortunately, technology can help you keep your books in order.
What is the best way to organize your book collection?
How do you organize a bookshelf with a lot of books?
And should you really get rid of your prized novels?
Do you separate hardbacks from paperbacks?
Do you stack them in piles?
With that in mind, here are a few ways to organize your books.
Sort Books Using the Dewey Decimal System
How do you organize a library?
This is the professional way to do it, i.e.
how they’re listed in educational institutions.
So what is the Dewey Decimal System?
It’s simply a numerical-based method to organize books by genre, then by author surname.
William Shakespeare even has his own subcategory (822.33).
But of course, you’re free to do your own thing by creating your own organizational system.
Splitting by genre could just mean you group all detective fiction together.
Romance has its own place, as do thrillers.
Classics might deserve their own space—it’s entirely up to you.
Or you’ve got the option to simply split your collection into fiction and non-fiction.
Let’s explore some less intense ways to sort your collection.
Make a “To Read” Pile
You finish one book and want to start a new one.
But they’re scattered haphazardly about so you’re free to’t find the one you’re after.
Instead, create different piles, shelves, or cupboards.
This will mean it’s easier to decide what to enjoy next.
Keep Your Favorite Books Separate
Are there novels you want to reread?
Or journals that will be useful for work?
Keep them separated from the rest of your books.
Keeping your favorite books to one side can prove a handy pick-me-up on days you’re feeling low.
If you are feeling down, a fantastic immersive story can cheer you up.
Don’t forget that there are plenty ofwebsites you might browse when you’re feeling depressedtoo.
Organize Your Books Alphabetically
This is the easiest method for keeping your collection in order.
Organize your volumes in alphabetical order, according to authors' names, or by title.
This can be first name or surname, as long as you remember which you’ve opted for.
You spend the next day scouring your bookshelves, intermittently crying, and checking behind sofas.
Then you order a replacement copy online.
Alternatively, you could keep series in chronological order and make life as stress-free as possible.
A good option is using a cataloguing website.
The best-known one isGoodreads, which contains details on the vast majority of books, including different editions.
you’ve got the option to mark any you’ve read and review them.
Many authors are also members, so will see feedback and can be asked questions about their work.
Another solution isLibraryThing, a similar service which is now free and also includes movies and music.
The interface is simple but don’t be put off: this is a fantastic social connection for readers.
you could filter by tags, meaning organizing your collection is easy.
And if you prefer physical records, LibraryThing lets you print off your catalog!
This covers many mediums, including films, books, and video games.
enter the library via the website, download the relevant software, or check out the app.
The app is particularly impressive: just scan the barcode or search for a title or series.
It links up with the database, and lists publication details for everything in your library.
Its filters are exceptional.
Switch to Digital to Save Space
This definitely isn’t for everyone.
But if you’re looking to make some space in your house, try converting to digital editions.
EReaders like Kindle or Kobo let you carry an entire library in your backpack.
It’s an exciting notion, and increases accessibility.
Imagine going on holiday and still having thousands of stories at your fingertips.
Yes, even if you love physical books, there are still plenty ofreasons to buy a Kindle.
You don’t have to do this for everything, of course.
You could sell them on auction sites likeeBay, or put them in storage usingMakespaceor a similar service.
But the best option is donating them to charity.
You’re sharing knowledge—what can be better than that?
There are various sites where you might pass on your second-hand books.
How Do You Organize Your Books?
Check out our list ofthe best books of the yearfor more recommendations.
