My local library only uses an alpha front to back system for the books that come with CDs (and it's typically messy and not alphabetical) so just one small area next to audio books for kids. All the other fiction books are by alpha like what's pictured in your DE lower cubby. I think a pull out bin/drawer will be pulled out and rarely pushed back in thus creating a real trip and fall hazard. I don't have any inkling what custom carpentry prices would be for drawers, but I'd imagine replacing the bin/cubby set up with regular low shelving units would be cheaper and more flexible for future growth.

Yes, any good cabinet shop could make pullout drawers. I wonder if the vertical dividers are required to keep the upper section from sagging or if they can be removed. Someone at the cabinet shop should be able to tell you that by looking at the cabinets in person.

Thanks for the replies!

The reasoning for the front facing books is that for the littles, they don't "read" the spines, they look at the covers, so they "shop" for books by sight. Our Junior and YA section is all traditionally shelved. I do have a lot of books on display in all the sections, so the cover is showing-sometimes a cover triggers interest in older kids as well, plus I love to walk in and see books everywhere. Our library is small, and not busy, and the littles all are accompanied by an adult, so I don't foresee pullouts being too much of a hazard for us, but of course that's something to keep in mind!

I’ll run it by the director and see what comes from it.

Rubbermaid pull out baskets as well as Ikea hanging pull out baskets are reasonably priced.