Library Ladder: Chaeaper ardware alternatives?

Hello,

We have a rather tall built-in bookshelf (~ 10 ft). Given the height, we are looking to add a library ladder for easier access to the top shelves. The hardware for library ladders is pricey though ($400-600 depending where you buy). Is there any reason you couldn’t use barndoor hardware? Is it possible to just buy components from a hardware store and do it that way? There’s remarkably little info around on DIY something like this.

Thanks!

Mavourak

in General Discussion 7 years and 10 months ago

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dorkofwindsor | 7 years and 1 month ago

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yes, hardware is expensive. here is a site that i’ve bought other things from, and was going to do the rolling ladder thing but never quite got it done: http://www.cshardware.com/rolling-library-ladder

Guest User | 7 years and 1 month ago

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If you’re looking to build one of these indoor ladders, like I did, this site lists a bunch of designs:

https://www.mymydiy.com/diy-ladder-shelves/

I did #2 made from pallets.

Guest User | 7 years and 10 months ago

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Oh and also, I would not use barn door hardware as it will not allow you to move the ladder out to a comfortable angle for climbing. It will hold the ladder down parallel to the bookcase.

Guest User | 7 years and 10 months ago

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Instead of a rolling ladder you could simply use a normal ladder that hooks on to a horizontal rail. Same look but less hardware (which is what makes the rolling ladders expensive). You’ll have to pick it up to move it but I don’t think that’s such a hardship. Take a look at this link from World Market and you’ll see what I mean… https://www.worldmarket.com/product/augustus-bookshelf-ladder.do?camp=ppc%3AGoogle%3APLA%3AShopping_PLA%7CFurniture%3AEverything_In_Furniture&product_id=460706&adpos=1o2&creative=50632184099&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhv6E4szP1QIVijuBCh0sMQUeEAYYAiABEgL1g_D_BwE

AndrewPorter | 7 years and 10 months ago

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I have ten-foot-high bookcases, built in when I moved here. I don’t use a ladder; just a step-stool. Maybe it’s time for Putnam, but I have stuff in front of my bookcases, like tables, a desk, etc.

Here’s the link for Putnam:

http://www.putnamrollingladder.com/index.html

kaiapapaya | 7 years and 10 months ago

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I got mine from Craigslist. Take a look at them in the stores that use them. Barnes and noble etc. They do a bit more than just track. If you give up the rolling part with the store away feature you can buy a hook on one that you need to position each time.. look up the Putnam Ladder Co. the rolling ladder is like fine furniture though.

daveinbedstuy | 7 years and 10 months ago

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Don’t know about functionality or weight issues but I think the cost difference is beacuse of the aesthetically nicer look to the ladder hardware.

BobMarvin | 7 years and 10 months ago

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I have no experience with either library ladders or barn doors, but I think a ladder with someone standing on it might be heavier than a barn door. Maybe extra barn door hardware might be needed.. Could you compare the two types of hardware at a good store where there’s someone knowledgeable who you could ask for advice? Leopoldi’s in Park Slope comes to mind. Also some on line sources, like Van Dyke’s have good customer telephone service.