Easier access with the open bookcase.

Glass-keeps them cleaner.

I voted for the bookcase with glass because as stated above me, it keeps the dust out! I also think it makes the bookcase look better.

I have bookshelves in many rooms of the house, but only the DVD cabinet has glass. I really would prefer they all did, even though I use the books a lot.

I would go with bookcase with glass doors. It will keep these away from dust and will also give a better look.

I prefer the open look. Easier access, easier to see what I have, or for guests to peruse my book collection. But yes, closed will control dust, so that has its advantages too.

closed bookcases look less messy and cluttered, even if they are inside....

I think it really depends on how and where they will be. If they are placed together and filling a wall, I think open is a nice look. If they will be flanking a fireplace or be located on two different walls, a closed bookcase feels more finished. From a practical sense, the glass cuts down on dust and either are as easy to reach for a book.

Thanks for the feedback everyone! Our bookcase will be 100% for books and even two side by side will still not hold all of hubby's books (someday he'll have a real library... we hope). We're going to go with glass doors!

Good. Glass is the way to go. Get tempered glass.

Open bookcase as that way I am more likely to take a book to read, it's inviting. Close bookcase for ornaments or even DVD sets.

An open bookcase is attractive and functional. Glass doors are useful when displaying rare books and objects, but dust can still get through, and the doors at some point will likely have issues like not closing or opening properly. Someone said that glass doors will keep kids away from the books, which is true, but they can also be broken - by kids. Centuries-old university and monastic libraries have books on open shelves. That's good enough for me.

I love my bookcases with glass. I have two of them flanking both sides of my armoire. I put many of my collectibles in them too ( maybe too many ). No dusting❣️