Chicago Kitchen Contemporary Kitchen, Chicago

Rolling metal ladder. Fashioned with the same purpose in mind as the traditional wooden rolling library ladder, these ladders are designed with a roller assembly that allows them to move smoothly back and forth across a track. A hook and slide fixture is also available for when the ladder needs to be repositioned.Tip: Make sure the climbing angle of the rolling ladder is no more than 17 degrees — anything steeper would be unsafe.

Cost Because a library ladder project requires precise measuring, estimating, skilled installation and possibly construction drawings, it is highly encouraged (if not required) to hire an architect, a contractor or an interior designer for this project. A library ladder should run in the ballpark of $2,500 to $4,000 installed. However, the price varies based on the length of the railing, type of ladder, wood species, labor rates, freight and location. Omar Tolentino of Alaco says the list price of the company’s standard 9-foot maple wood ladder is $1,825 and includes the plated hardware. A satin nickel railing runs $26 per linear foot. See more great home projects

Library ladder and integrated island and table