How do I choose between a 36" and 42" wide bookcase?

A 36"-wide bookcase is the most common commercial selection — it stores approximately 12 standard 3-ring binders per shelf or 18–24 paperback books. A 42"-wide bookcase provides 17% more storage per shelf height but shelf sag becomes a concern if the shelf is not supported at the center with a fixed divider. For heavy loads (encyclopedias, law books), 36" width with center support is safer. At OfficeFurniture2go.com, our 36" commercial bookcases are our most popular — call 1-800-460-0858.