Library Card Catalogs as Storage

Remember when you used a card catalog, not a computer, to find a book at the library? Well, times have certainly changed. But I've been wondering what happened to all of those card file systems? Surely, they were donated, sold or even trashed. And one person's trash is...well, you know the rest.

I believe that everything deserves a second chance, so here's a great idea: Get an old library card file for your knick-knacks and thingies. In fact, these multi-drawer units are a perfect addition to any craft space for holding pens, ribbon, buttons, beads and much more!

I spotted Tricia Royal's fantastic vintage card catalog and I had to ask her about it: "I use my card catalog to hold art/craft/sewing supplies, like thread, zippers, paint, you name it. it has 60 drawers, and sort of a mid-century feel. I found it at a community college surplus auction in Jacksonville, Florida about 8-9 years ago. It set me back $200, and is one of my most prized furniture possessions."

Tricia's cabinet is huge, but card catalogs came in a variety of sizes: small and long, tall and wide, tall and thin, etc. There's one that will fit just about anywhere in your home, so next time you're at a flea market, garage sale, or auction keep your eyes peeled for one of these treasures.