Some Ideas for What To Do With Media: DVDs and CDs

Before you can even think about furniture and containers for your media, such as DVDs or CDs, you have to decide whether you want them to be EXPOSED or ENCLOSED. That is, do you want to be able to see the DVDs and CDs at a glance when you walk into the room, or would you rather they be hidden?

Both systems have features that can be either a pro or a con. Consider the following factors in choosing your system:

-An EXPOSED system makes it possible for anyone coming into the room to know you have so many DVDs or CDs. This system can be very convenient because your collection is readily available, but it can also lead to requests for borrowing or provide an opportunity for theft.

-An ENCLOSED system can be subtle. If you worry that loaning your DVDs and CDs will lead to scratched discs, why let the whole universe know you have the largest movie collection in town? It can be a pain to have to go through a few steps to access your media, but you might find this trade off worthwhile.

Here are examples of each type of system:

EXPOSED

-shelves;

-stacked crates;

-towers

ENCLOSED

-boxes;

-media cabinets

You can also combine both systems for a solution that fits your needs perfectly. For example, you can store boxes on open shelves, or hide shelves with doors. Or, how about creating curtains for the fronts of your crates?

I store my DVDs in cardboard DVD boxes in alphabetical order, with the alphabet range printed on the front of the box. I then store these boxes on shelves in a cabinet with a door:

CATALOGUING

There are a lot of wonderful software applications for digitally organizing your collections. They enable you to create a complete picture of your libraries and create records for insurance purposes.