Factor in Height

• When you want to divide a room but still want light and air to pass through both areas, factor in the height of the bookcase you plan to use. Several smaller bookcases that reach approximately 3 feet in height can create a low room divider. They separate the space into distinct areas but preserve the line of vision for the room so it still feels open and bright. Low bookcases are ideal room dividers if you want to create a home office space in your bedroom or living room.
  
  

Choose Display Items Carefully

• Using a tall, open-backed bookcase as a room divider also allows light to pass through both areas of the space, but it provides a formal look that works well for dividing a large great room into separate living and dining areas. However, because the bookcase is open, items that you display or store on it are visible in both sections of the room, so you should choose objects in colors that work with the color scheme in both areas. Neutral shades like white, cream, black, tan and gray are safe options because you can pair them with most other colors. You can also mix objects in cool and warm tones, so they match the decor on one side of the divider while contrasting with the other side’s decor.
  
  

Use a Closed Back for Privacy

• If you are using bookcases to divide a room where privacy is required for the two areas, forgo an open-backed bookcase and choose one that has a closed back. Because you cannot see through the bookcase, the two areas feel even more distinct and intimate. This type of bookcase room divider works well in a shared bedroom, particularly if the occupants are teenagers who value their privacy.
  
  

Make It Movable

• If you only need to divide a room at certain times, a movable room divider is your best option because you can simply push it out of the way when you want to open up the space. Bookcases aren’t usually easy to move because they can be very heavy, especially when full of display and storage items. However, if you add rolling casters or tracks to the bottom of your bookcase room dividers, you can simply slide them out of the way when you do not want to divide the space. You may want to choose this option if your living room or family room doubles as a guest room when family or friends visit from out of town.