An easy fix is to paint them your white trim color - your brick has white in it. I would probably want to stain them darker with a one coat product like polyshades .. shift down to walnut and change the hardware. Whatever finish you end up with - do the mantel too.

first things first.. lose that track lighting! so many better options on the market then that. i promise! could you add a new mantel by chance? and yes paint them the white of your trim. change the hardware.

If you stain them, I would use a light finish with the least orange in it. White finish will bring more light in the room. With that said, I would go white. If later you decide to beef up the mantle, try encasing it, much cheaper than a solid piece of wood.

Regarding the spot lights, pointing at the bookcases will prevent shadows and add functionality. If you are planning on placing the tv on top of the mantel, make sure you have directional spotlights so you can control where you illuminate. Good luck!