Iron Bookshelves Wiki › Guides › Choose Between Bookshelf Types for Your Build

Choose Between Bookshelf Types for Your Build

Understand the Power Spectrum

Bookshelf enchantment power ranges from 1.5 (Copper) to 12 (Enderite). Higher power means access to higher-level enchantments on your tools and armor. However, power alone doesn't determine which enchantments appear—it increases the *maximum level* available.

Match Power to Your Needs

Survival/casual play: Iron or Copper Bookshelves are sufficient for useful enchantments
Serious enchanting: Aim for Diamond or Emerald tier to unlock level IV–V enchantments
Perfection: Netherite or Enderite Bookshelves unlock the absolute highest enchantment levels

Consider Aesthetics

Mix bookshelf types to create visually interesting libraries. A room with varied materials (Iron, Golden, Diamond) looks better than uniform shelves while still providing strong enchantment power. The mod supports this—combine lower and higher-tier bookshelves in the same room.

Budget Your Resources

High-tier bookshelves require rare materials. If you're early game, start with Iron or Steel. Upgrade gradually as you gather Diamond, Emerald, or Netherite materials. You don't need all 15 bookshelves to be the same tier.