In order to choose the best mission bookshelf, you should first familiarize yourself with the mission style so you can recognize it in furniture when shopping. A mission bookshelf will feature many of the designs and accents of other mission furniture, which means it is likely to accent the grain of the wood used to build the mission bookshelf, and it will feature simple lines with broad surfaces for shelves. The sides of the bookshelf are likely to feature vertical slats or posts, and the shelves themselves will be smooth, flat, and stained to accent the grain.
Looking for these characteristics will help you recognize a mission bookshelf among the many other styles available. Once you have found a few models to choose from, you must examine the aesthetics of the shelf, the construction and craftsmanship of the shelf, the stability, and the price. Be sure to find out what kind of wood is used to make the shelf, as this will have an effect on both the durability and the price of the mission bookshelf. Hardwoods are very often used for construction of a mission bookshelf, both for durability and aesthetics, as the grain is often quite prominent on such wood. Other woods that are not hardwoods can be used for their natural beauty; cedar and teak, for example, are naturally beautiful and water resistant, though these woods can be quite expensive as a result.
The mission style is not a difficult one to use for construction, but not all mission bookshelf offerings will be of similar quality. A builder may cut corners when building the unit to reduce cost, so it will be important for you to examine the quality of craftsmanship when choosing your shelf. Examine all the joints of the shelf to make sure they are cut carefully and secured properly; take note of the method used to secure shelves to the uprights, and try to move the shelf side to side to check for play. A well-constructed shelf will not move or sway when you do this. Listen for creaks when you put weight on the shelves, as this may indicate a loose shelf, a crack, or an imperfection in the wood.
Some shelves come as kits rather than as a fully assembled unit. If you are experienced with tools or carpentry, these kits can save you money at the time of purchase. Keep in mind that assembly will be required, and you may need specific tools to complete the construction. The overall stability of the shelf will depend on the kit instructions and your assembly abilities.