Product Review: The Billy Bookcase by IKEA

A few months ago I purchased a "Billy" bookcase from IKEA. "Billy" refers to a line of bookcases that the retailer offers. This line of bookcases is versatile, affordable and comes in a wide array of choices. Overall, I have been very pleased with this product.

What I consider to be the biggest feature of the Billy bookcase by IKEA is the fact it comes in many different sizes. Whether you need a basic 2 shelf case for a few books or a tall tower for DVDs, chances are this line will have something for you. With the Billy bookcase I was able to get the exact dimensions and number of shelves I wanted (bonus: middle shelves are adjustable in height!).

Another great feature of these bookcases is color choice. When shopping for a bookcase, I found many that were the right color, wrong size or vice versa. Not only was I able to find one the right size at IKEA, I was also able to find the right color. In my case, the right color was an espresso finish.

Now we all know IKEA is known for furniture you have to take home and assemble yourself. Some may consider this a drawback but I consider it a plus. First, it makes it much easier to get it home - if you're purchasing bigger furniture items there's less of a chance you'll need to get your hands on a large vehicle. Secondly, unassembled furniture is generally cheaper than the preassembled variety.

The Billy bookcase I got was easy to put together (slightly irritating instructions were in pictures only, no words) but parts were labeled well. Probably could have put it together myself, but it was much easier with a second person, to help hold things in alignment.

Having never bought from IKEA before, I wondered about quality. However, from the minute I began putting the Billy bookcase together, I realized it is of a better quality than what you might expect to get at a place like Wal-Mart or Target (as far as their cheaper furniture goes, anyway). I've now had the bookcase for about 3 months and have been pleased with it.

Overall, the Billy bookcase from IKEA is a great product. For the price and quality, it's great especially for kids, dorms, or first apartments. The selection of sizes/dimensions and colors doesn't hurt either. I have been pleased enough with this bookcase that I plan to buy one more.