How to Build a Book Display Table

An attractive book display table can be a remarkably effective way to attract interest to a group of books. This can result in more sales for a bookseller; a librarian can interest readers in a specific author or subject area; or a teacher can excite students about books displayed by theme in the classroom. With a few crates, a plank of plywood and a tablecloth, you can make a book display table in less than ten minutes. Since the pieces are so lightweight, one person can put it together with ease. Best of all, you have the ability to put your book display table in another area whenever the spirit moves.

Instructions

1

Clear the area where you want the table to go. Choose an area that will not block an entrance or exit. At a book fair, there should be enough room so people can walk around the table and look over the books comfortably. In a classroom or library, having three accessible sides is ideal.

2

Stack the six crates in two columns parallel to each other. Use stackable crates with foldable tops or no tops. They do not have to match in color since they will be covered. However, they must match in height so the board placed on top will be level.

3

Place the plywood on top of the columns. Check that it is centrally placed. The edges hanging over the crates should be equal on the front of the board and the back of the board.

4

Cover the plywood with a tablecloth. Thematic cloths are ideal to add color and promote interest in your book display. For example, if science fiction books are being displayed, use fabric that has planets or star motifs. If you are featuring romance novels, find a cloth that has valentines or hearts. You can find the perfect pattern at a fabric store. If you are at a book fair or conference, use a tablecloth with your company's logo on it. Arrange your book display as you wish.