The best metal bookcase will be one that is affordable, stylish, and durable. Determine where you will place the metal bookcase in the home or office before you go shopping so you can determine how much space you have available for the unit. This will dictate the size and shape of bookcase you will need to purchase. Once you have determined your space limitations, consider how many books you will need to store on the bookcase; you may need to buy more than one bookcase, depending on your space limitations and the size and shape of the case you choose.
Consider whether aesthetics are important. Some less expensive but equally durable metal bookcase models will not be especially aesthetically pleasing, but they will be functional and durable. If you run an office in which you will be placing many bookcases, you may want to eschew aesthetics for functionality and cost-effectiveness. If the metal bookcase will be in a living room or study, however, aesthetics will be more important and you will need to consider the overall decor of the room before purchasing a bookcase. A metal bookcase may be more expensive if it is designed to be aesthetically pleasing, but the investment will be worthwhile in a common living space.
You may want to consider a metal bookcase that is built with other materials as well. A metal and glass bookcase, for example, will be an eye-catching addition to a room, as will a metal and wood bookcase. The wood or glass can act as an accent to the metal frame, or these materials can be a structural part of the bookcase unit. Depending on the type of metal used, the bookcase may not be especially attractive if it is built exclusively from metal, but when combined with other materials, the metal will appear more visually appealing.
Whichever type of metal bookcase you choose, make sure it is stable and well-built. If applicable, choose a bookcase with height-adjustable shelves that can be moved up or down to accommodate books of varying sizes. This will help you maximize the usable space on the bookcase, and you will be able to add or remove shelves as needed. The structure itself should feature stable joints that will not allow the bookcase to move or sway, especially when loaded down with books and other items. If necessary, make sure the bottom of the bookcase features some sort of protective footings so the floor beneath the bookcase will not get scratched or otherwise damaged.