Paint Recommendation

Just to know, the prep work before painting is more important than the type of paint you will be using to repaint the bookcase.

Every surface should be sanded enough to break the surface of the paint already on it and after that is done, wipe it all down to make sure to remove any dust from your project.

My personal preference for things that are going to get wear and tear is a good oil base paint and by all means, buy a GOOD brush to apply it, not one of those nylon throw away types. A good 2 inch brush can be had for around $20 and I prefer Wooster brand natural bristle brushes.

Better yet, if you have access to a paint sprayer, that will lay an even better finish coat of paint, just be careful not to lay it on too thick and have it run.

As far as paint brands, I'm a huge believer in using Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore products and lean more to the SW brand.

You can get these paints in any color or degree of sheen.

I built a built-in bookcase a few years back and used an acrylic paint followed by clear, water-based urethane top coats. It has done very well. The top-coat is my effort to prevent “blocking,” which is the tendency for things to stick to latex paints.

I did not want to have the stink of oil-based paint at the time. Years ago, in another room of the house, I had used oil-based paint and it has held up very well also.

Thanks everyone for the responses. This is very helpful.