Nice piece. Free standing but stable, very attractive simple clean lines, with good size shelves to hold books, a clock, even my laptop.  Had someone assemble it for me so I can't speak to the ease or difficulty of putting it together. I will say that I was very impressed with the packaging. Not only was it securely sealed, it also had extra heavy cardboard "bumpers" on the corners and exposed sides for protection. It arrived without a scratch with all parts intact.  Excellent quality for the price.