I ordered this unit to place along a long wall in my house. It's got all different sized areas to put different kinds of knick knacks so it's very good for that purpose but it would probably also be good to store books if you would like. The only thing I do not like about this piece are the screw hole covers. They're just little stickers and they don't stay on very well. Plus if you have children, they will absolutely peel them off if they spot one that is loose. Other than that, it is very nice and the price is fair.