As other reviewers have indicated, this shelf isn't made to hold a ton of heavy books.  I have about three larger framed prints sitting on it and two smaller ones and don't feel I could add any more weight to this shelf.  Also, the prints tend to slide forward off the shelf due to it being narrow and of a slippery finish.  Bottom line, you can't overload it but it looks beautiful and was easy for my son-in-law to install.