This Wooden Treasure Took Us Back in Time — And Still Works Beautifully Today
August 25, 2025
Source: 1stDibs
This unusual and very well made wooden piece was discovered at a thrift shop in West Virginia. At first, it was not clear what it was. It turns out, it is a mid-century tabletop book stand, made of solid wood and about 18 inches tall. It bore an uncluttered, angled design with gently curving supports.
After some sleuthing, we learned it was a midcentury tabletop book stand — a working, decorative piece from sometime in the 1950s or 60s that was designed to hold books upright for display, or just for easy access.
Simple Design, Lasting Function
This book rack features a traditional V-shaped design, along with a tilted base that keeps books upright at a gentle angle. As a result, it’s perfect for displaying favorite volumes or keeping essential reference books within reach on a desk, coffee table, or shelf. Additionally, the forward-leaning angle helps prevent books from sliding out while keeping them visible and easy to grab.
It makes a great stand for art books, photo albums or cookbooks. The compact footprint also means it works well in small spaces, such as bedside tables or office corners.
Built for Everyday Use
This stand uses hardwood, maybe birch or maple, and feels lightweight yet sturdy. The maker used doweled joints—a common mid-century technique that adds strength without relying on metal connectors.
The finish is easy and genuine, featuring no fancy coatings, just the straight solid tone of fine playground wood. It’s utilitarian yet enduringly produced.That seems to be the mid-century-style approach to design: useful, minimal, and built to last.
A Piece of Mid-Century Style
There is no maker’s mark, but the piece resembles works by Mel Smilow, a furniture designer who produced accessible designs with clean lines and intelligent construction techniques. Even if it’s not an original Smilow, it looks the part fitting the era and aesthetic.
With its angled legs and its slim profile, it will be a chic addition to any retro space. Whether you are a book enthusiast or a mid-century design aficionado, form and function is seamlessly combined with the stand.