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IKEA BILLY Narrow Bookcase Review: Adjustable shelving for a small stretch of wall
Our IKEA BILLY narrow bookcase review considers its shelf depth, adjustable layout, wall anchoring and where the tall format fits.
The tall narrow BILLY is useful where a wide bookcase would cut into a doorway or crowd a desk. The current white U.S. listing is about 15¾ inches wide and 11 inches deep. This review covers the tall narrow format. The photo shows the same format in a different finish.
Measure the books as well as the wall
The shallow shelves work for many paperbacks and everyday books. Deep binders or oversized art books deserve a trial measurement. Adjustable shelves help mix heights, but putting taller volumes together makes better use of the narrow width.
Plan the installation
The tall case needs to be secured according to IKEA’s instructions. Check your wall and baseboard clearance before assembly, and confirm what fasteners suit the wall. If you need a display for deep baskets or oversized albums, choose the depth around those objects. For a book collection on a short wall, the narrow BILLY is an efficient layout.
How we evaluated it
This editorial rating uses the manufacturer’s product documentation and assesses fit for the stated use. It is based on documented features and tradeoffs. We did not test this unit hands-on. See our editorial policy for how we score products.
What works well
- Small wall footprint
- Adjustable shelves for different book heights
What to consider
- Shallow depth limits larger items
- Requires wall anchoring per instructions
At a glance
- Width
- 15¾ inches on referenced U.S. version
- Depth
- 11 inches
- Height
- 79½ inches
