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  • Library Ladder
  • Library Ladder
    From "Weekend Decorating"
    episode WDC-207


    PHOTO

    A look at the completed shelves and ladder.
    Building the shelving up the wall gives a strong scale to the room. Not only does it create a focal wall in the room, it adds a large amount of storage space to a small room. If the space was being used in a family environment, the upper shelves would be used for decorative items or books not often used, but since this library will house law books often used for reference, access is important. To provide easy access, the solution is to install a library ladder.
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    Library ladders are available in a number of different finishes and colors, and installation can vary, depending on the height of the ladder.

    Tip: Before purchasing a library ladder check installation instructions to make sure you have enough space in your room to accommodate the ladder without interrupting traffic flow.

    1. Measure up 7' from the ground and make a tic marks across the shelving (figure A). Do not install the ladder at the very top of the shelving: you never want to reach through the ladder or reach down from the ladder to reach the shelf contents, due to the danger of becoming unbalanced and falling from the ladder.

    2. At the tic marks, make a level line across the entire face of the bookcases. This will act as a level line for lining up the braces.

    3. Position the braces and mark for screw holes (figure B).
    Photo

    Figure A

    Photo

    Figure B


    4. Remove the braces and predrill for the screws.

    5. Attach the end brace to the first unit.

    6. Slide the next three braces on the ladder rail (figure C). They need to be on the ladder rail before they are screwed to the wall unit.

    7. With the help of a friend, begin attaching the bar to the braces (figure D).
    Photo

    Figure C

    Photo

    Figure D


    8. Position the rollers that will attach to the track on the ladder and screw into position.

    9. Position the wheels to the base of the ladder and attach in place (figure E).

    10. Slide the ladder on the first portion of the track (figure F) and attach the second portion of the track and end brace to lock the ladder into position (figure G). The unique hardware at the top of the ladder is designed so the ladder can be pulled out for use, or pushed in to conserve space in the room.
    Photo

    Figure E

    Photo

    Figure F

    Photo

    Figure G


  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: