This Vintage-Style “Book Sconce” Is Going Viral on TikTok — Here’s Where to Snag One Before It Sells Out

published Nov 21, 2024
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Built in library bookcase arches over threshold of living room and bedroom in light filled apartment.
Credit: Erin Derby

As anyone who’s ever stepped foot in my apartment could immediately tell you, I have a bit of a lamp fixation. One of my interior design philosophies is that there’s no such thing as having too many light sources: Not only do they help create a distinct mood and up the coziness, but they also make it so that the dreaded overhead light can remain turned off. I consider my lamps to be works of art, too; I’ve collected some unique versions secondhand over the years. (Not to brag, but I scored a capiz shell lamp for just $25 on Facebook Marketplace.)

I’m constantly on the lookout for new additions, even as I slowly run out of surfaces to place them on. As I was scrolling through TikTok, however, I came across a viral video that gave me an incredible solution. Maybe I’m a bit late to the party, but I had no idea that bookshelf lamps were a thing. Ever since I laid my eyes on one, I can’t stop thinking about it. It takes up pretty much no space, with the base blending right in next to the other books on your shelf. I did some digging and discovered exactly where you can get the vintage-style look.

If you’re after the lamp that’s featured in the hit video, the creator shared the link. Unfortunately, however, the exact version is sold out on Etsy — which makes sense, considering that the video has over 500,000 likes. But all hope isn’t lost: The same seller has a candlestick-style option that’s just as romantic and antique-inspired as the original.

Etsy shop Literary Lamps, as its name suggests, creates lamps “inspired by the love of books,” designed with elegance and sophistication in mind. The $150 item’s base is shaped like an actual book, although it’s made of wood, wrapped in brown saddle faux leather, and adorned with gold fleur-de-lis stencils. From there, a brass arm extends, supporting the small white lamp.

“This lamp is truly what my apartment was missing!” says one of the over two-dozen five-star reviews. “It gives the place life and makes it unique! A thousand times better than what I thought it would be!”

The seller says that, due to high demand, if you place your order now, it won’t be delivered until 2025. Although I definitely think it’s worth the wait, there are a few alternatives out there, such as the $109 Walmart option linked above. This one’s base is designed to look like a dictionary, and the shade has some extra detailing along the edges. It comes with a bulb, as well as a remote control to turn it on and off from anywhere in the room.

Last but not least, if you’re prepared to splurge a bit more, editor-loved brand Levenger is selling its own bookshelf light. As the brand points out, the “Shelfie” also casts a useful glow over your book collection, making it easier to find the one that you’re looking for. It comes on a flat golden base for extra stability, so it can also serve as a bookend or stand on its own on your desk.

There’s no question that I’m putting this stunning-yet-practical lighting solution on my holiday wish list. My bookcase and my lamp collection are two of my favorite aspects of my apartment, so this gem will give me the best of both worlds. The only thing I’m still debating is which exact model to get — but they’re all so gorgeous that I’m sure that any one of them will shine (literally) in my space.

Buy: Literary Lamps Bookcase Lamp, $149.99
Buy: Walmart Kiven Rechargeable Bookshelf Lamp, $108.99
Buy: Levenger Shelfie Bookshelf Light, $195.50 (normally $219.50)

Apartment Therapy's Home Runs

Get full reviews of editor-favorite finds sent twice a week to your inbox.