Library Shelving and Safety

Greetings!

I was checking my email this morning and something caught my eye. It was a question on an email digest about shelving and safety issues. The writer asked this question.

“Can anyone tell me what is the correct type of shelving to be used in a Media Center to place books on? We currently have shelving units that you can purchase at Lowes or Target, but I have noticed that they are beginning to “bow” plus the shelving units are not attached to the wall so they can tip over easily. Is there a certain requirement by law for school shelving? If so, what is it?”

I thought that was an interesting question. I decided to see what I could learn about safety regulations for school library shelving and was a bit surprised to not find a lot. What I did learn is that any shelving – library or other – that is over 6 feet tall must be attached to the wall or floor and ceiling. The shelves need to be attached to studs, not the drywall. One other thing is that ADA regulations give a minimum of 36” between stacks and 42” is preferred if there is room. My information comes from the FEMA and ALA (American Library Association) websites.

So check your library shelving and also any other shelving in your school. Make sure that any shelves 6 feet or taller are attached firmly to the wall.

If you are using shelving from Lowes or Target or other similar places, check to make sure your shelves aren’t bowing. (I have this kind of shelving at home and am having no problems even though they are FULL.) If you are looking for new shelving, consider bookstore shelving. The shelving is a slight triangle from the side, and the shelves are slightly slanted to make reading titles easier. Ours are just under 5 feet tall and are very sturdy.

I hope you have a great week.

Audrey