How We Built a Stunning Book Tree for Our Romantasy Bookstore in Lumberton, NJ

When we decided to expand Fantasy Gifts NJ to include a romantasy bookstore, we knew we wanted to create something truly magical—a centerpiece that would capture the imagination of book lovers and celebrate the power of storytelling. That's how our book tree was born.

A Sustainable Partnership with Our Local Library

Every great project starts with community collaboration. We reached out to our local  library, which had just completed their annual book sale. Thousands of books had found new homes, but hundreds more remained—destined for destruction.

We connected with the Friends of the Library and proposed a win-win solution: we would rescue these books from the landfill in exchange for a charitable donation to their organization. They support literacy programs and library resources throughout our community, making this partnership meaningful on multiple levels.

The result? We picked up 20 boxes containing approximately 500 books, giving them new life as art while supporting a cause we believe in.

From Boxes to Blueprint: Planning the Book Tree

Once we unloaded all 500 books, the real creative work began. Here's how we transformed a pile of discarded books into a stunning permanent installation:

Step 1: Sort and Organize

We sorted all the books by:

• Size (large coffee table books, standard hardcovers, paperbacks)

• Density (weight and thickness)

• Condition (sturdy enough for structural integrity)

Step 2: Build a Strong Foundation

Like any good structure, our book tree needed a solid base. We started with large coffee table books at the bottom, creating a stable foundation that could support the weight of hundreds of books stacked above.

Step 3: Design with Pages Out

One of our favorite design choices was orienting the books with pages facing outward rather than spines. This created a beautiful, textured appearance that looks organic and sculptural—like tree bark made of stories. It also meant we didn't have to worry about coordinating book spine colors for visual appeal.

Pro tip: If you build your own book tree with spines out, consider organizing by color for a rainbow effect or monochromatic elegance.

Step 4: Stack Like a Mason

We approached the stacking process like laying irregular-shaped bricks. Each book was carefully positioned to:

• Maintain structural balance

• Create visual interest with varying angles

• Ensure stability as the tree grew taller

We leveled and adjusted as we built upward, checking stability at each layer.

Step 5: Make It Permanent

Since this was designed as a permanent installation for our romantasy bookstore, we used Liquid Nails construction adhesive to secure the books together. We applied a small dab at each contact point between books, ensuring they'd stay in place for years to come.

Step 6: Add the Magic—Literally

The finishing touch? Internal lighting. We built a custom plywood platform base for the tree and incorporated a small access door. This allowed us to install lighting inside the structure, so the book tree glows from within—creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for a romantasy bookstore.

Why a Book Tree Works for Local SEO

Beyond the artistic appeal, our book tree serves multiple business purposes:

1. Unique Local Landmark People visit specifically to see and photograph our book tree, increasing foot traffic to our Lumberton location.

2. Social Media Magnet Customers love sharing photos of the tree on Instagram and Facebook, creating organic social proof and brand awareness.

3. Community Story Our partnership with the local library and Friends of the Library demonstrates our commitment to Lumberton and sustainable practices—values that resonate with our customers.

4. Search Visibility Content about unique local attractions helps us rank for searches like "things to do in Lumberton, NJ," "unique bookstores near me," and "romantasy bookstore New Jersey."

Lessons Learned and Tips for Your Own Book Tree

If you're inspired to create your own book installation, here's what we learned:

• Start with more books than you think you need (we used 500, but could have used more for a fuller tree)

• Test your adhesive on a few books first to ensure it doesn't damage pages

• Work with a partner for safety and to hold books in place while adhesive sets

• Plan your lighting early so you can build around electrical needs

• Document the process for social media content and blog posts (like this one!)

Visit Our Book Tree in Lumberton

Our romantasy bookstore and book tree are located at 1603 NJ-38, Lumberton, NJ 08048. Stop by to see this one-of-a-kind installation in person, browse our collection of romance and fantasy novels, and discover why sustainable creativity and community partnership matter to us.

Have questions about our book tree or want to share your own creative bookstore display? Reach out to us at romantasybookshop@gmail.com or connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

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Fantasy Gifts NJ is a family-owned business serving New Jersey since 1980, with locations in Marlton, Turnersville, and Lumberton. Our newest addition—a romantasy bookstore—celebrates the magic of storytelling and the power of community.