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From marble and geodes to fantasy-themed, these decorative bookends will elevate your home library

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Combine form and function with decorative bookends

You've carefully curated your book collection, but before you take a "shelfie," complete the look of your bookshelves with bookends. Bookends combine form and function: They're designed to support the end of a row of books while adding a decorative element.

The best bookends are made from heavy materials to support your weightiest tomes. Some are designed to use the weight of the books themselves to stay upright. There are plenty of decorative bookends that'll keep your bookshelves tidy and organized.

We assembled a collection of 18 bookend sets with something for everyone, including modern geometric, marble, vintage-style, animal-themed designs, and more to elevate your home library.

Shop this article: Shikaman Decorative Metal BookendsMercer41 Agate Non-Skid Bookends, Set of 2 and Main + Mesa Geometric Marble Bookends with Brass Inlay

Design

There are two types of bookends. The first relies on their weight and size to prevent books from toppling them over. These bookends are made of heavy materials, such as stone or wood, and have substantial heft and height to keep from toppling over.

The second type of bookend, typically made of metal or plastic, is lighter and utilizes the weight of the books to keep everything upright. They feature an L-shaped design with a non-slip base that slides under a portion of the row.

Single vs. pair

Bookends are sold in pairs or alone. Consider a single bookend, if one end of your row of books is propped up against a bookshelf edge or wall. If your book collection is stored on a shelf without vertical edges or placed on a counter or tabletop, you can use a pair of bookends positioned on either side.

Material

Good-quality bookends are made from the following materials:

  • Agate stone: Also known as geodes, agate stones are volcanic rocks that are cut in a cross-section. The outer layer looks like a regular rock while the interior layer is polished and dyed to reveal colorful layers of crystals.
  • Marble: A classic and sleek, marble is a heavy stone that is polished and offers a light-colored neutral appearance that goes with any decor. Marble mixed with wooden or brass accents adds an element of farmhouse or boho style.
  • Wood: Heavier woods with natural finishes look chic on bookshelves, especially in minimalist wedge styles. Wooden bookends are sturdy and match most decor. This style is rustic but also fits in with minimalist decor.
  • Metal: Steel is used in standard L-shaped bookends, ubiquitous in libraries. They're low-cost and offer reliable support and a utilitarian appeal. Cast iron, a heavier material, is used in decorative metal bookends with geometric designs or animal shapes.
  • Plastic: Clear acrylic is a cool, sleek and inexpensive material used in select L-shaped bookends. The clear bookend will showcase the cover of the book at the row's end.

18 decorative bookends for your home library

Shikaman Decorative Metal Bookends

These budget-friendly bookends offer a charming twist on the standard metal L-shaped bookends with their text design spelling out "book" on each end. The pair comes in four colors, so you can match your décor.

Mercer41 Agate Non-Skid Bookends, Set of 2

Cut from volcanic stone, this pair of agate bookends reveal mesmerizing crystalline layers dyed in earthy green. They're heavy enough to hold up a cookbook. Pretty to look at, these bookends can also be used as standalone décor or as a paperweight.

Main + Mesa Geometric Marble Bookends with Brass Inlay

These chic white marble and brass bookends can handle your biggest hardcover collection. They can be positioned vertically or horizontally and angled to reveal the brass accent or hide it.

Geomod Geometric Gold Honeycomb Bookends

This pretty set of metal L-shaped bookends features a sweet honeycomb design. They come in seven colors, including bright gold. Because they are lightweight, they're ideal for your paperback collection.

Sriwatana Decorative Metal Bookends

This abstract geometric design comes in heavy-duty black metal. The felt base won't slip or scratch up your bookshelf. They're sturdy and functional while looking modern and classy.

 

Union Rustic White Marble Bookends with Wood Details

These curved marble bookends have a wooden stripe and blend well with minimalist, boho, modern, traditional, and coastal-inspired décor. These modern bookends are heavy enough to hold a 36-inch row of books of all sizes.

Corrigan Studio Geometric Bookends, Set of 2

These wooden bookends are geometrically shaped from a solid tree stump. They're substantial and sturdy without taking up too much shelf space. The natural finish looks rustic, great for modern farmhouse décor.

Ambipolar Geometric Bookends

These geometric, gold bookends are made of weighted cast iron and feature a hollow opening that can double as a holder for pens or dried flowers. They come with anti-slip stickers that you can place where needed.

Amoystone Agate Bookends

These geode bookends come in different colors and weights. Some people color-coordinate their book collections with these vibrant agate stone bookends. If you have larger books to prop, the 6- to 8-pound option will do the trick.

Carchistan Hand Bookends

These cool bookends are decorative without taking too much attention away from your paperback collection. They're made to resemble hands with a tasteful black matte finish. The brand offers other unique bookends, including chess pieces and brains

MerryNine Innovative Crystal Clear Bookends

These elegant crystal bookends would look especially great in a home office. The crystal ball design is eye-catching, yet the clear bookends won't clash with anything around them. 

The Noble Collection Hogwarts Express Bookends

If you're obsessed with all things Harry Potter, this collectible set is a must. These Harry Potter bookends transform the books in between them into a tunnel for the train that takes young witches and wizards to Hogwarts. It's exquisitely detailed and made of painted wood and resin, strong enough to support even the heaviest books.

TheBearandWolfStudio Two Towers Orthanc and Barad-dur Bookends

Another fantasy lover's dream, these Lord of the Rings bookends depict structures central to "The Two Towers"; Orthanc, Sauron's stronghold in Mordor and Barad-dur, Saruman's citadel in Isengard. They're made of 3D-printed plastic and handpainted in stunning detail. The front of each bookend contains a quote about the tower it supports. The towers are removable from the bases and can be turned and displayed as you like. 

FunEclecticHome Vinyl Record Bookends

These quirky bookends are perfect for music lovers. Each one features a 10-inch vintage vinyl record that's been handmolded into a supportive shape. If these bookends are too big, the designer also offers a smaller style.

Ambipolar Cat Decorative Bookends

These cat bookends are perfect for those who love their feline friends. These cute bookends have an antique look to them, made of sturdy cast iron with anti-slip bottoms to keep them in place. 

Red Barrel Studio Nolley Traditional Resin Dog Bookends (Set of 2)

Naturally, we thought of dog enthusiasts, too. These stylized vintage bookends depict a lovable Labrador, made from resin with a tarnished finish. They have a felt lining on the bottom that makes them nonslip. 

Comfy Hour Farmhouse Collection 5" Horse Bookends

If you're looking for tasteful vintage bookends, consider this equestrian-themed set. They'll look great paired with other antique pieces, as well as farmhouse décor. They're made of handpainted resin with a finish that mimics rust. 

Bellaa Elephant Head Bookends

If you're struggling to find bookends that match your bohemian interior, this set won't disappoint. These golden elephant bookends are glam meets bohemian. They're made of painted resin, with beautiful and intricate patterns on both elephant heads. 

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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