Better than we expected. When everything is put together---it is a very sturdy unit.  We bought two and decided we needed one more to complete our library.  Darby Home Co has come a long way since we bought our first bookshelf from them 15 years ago.  Nice looking for a particle board and laminate product.  Free shipping kept this product affordable.  It is heavy!Pros: Decent price.  Nice looking. Direct to home shipping means we didCons: We are a bit instruction challenged.  Had to call the manufacturer for help. However, there were knowledgeable people on the other end who helped us through the process.