I bought the shelves to make a reading nook for my daughter. I am very happy with this purchase and give it five stars, but the product dimensions were off. The first shelf measures 16 inches long; the second measures 23.5 in. long; the third measures 32 in. long; and finally the fourth measures 40 in. long. It is absolutely great for books. Very strong. Very stable.  Too bad it's on sale now!