I knew I wanted a 6-shelf bookcase and Walmart had the same company's 6-shelf version available, but decided on two 3-shelf units instead and stacked them - makes the 6-shelf version, but purchasing like I did offers more options for just a wee bit more money. While I think that I'll always use this as a 6-shelf unit I may decide in the future to do something a little different. Purchasing two of these 3-shelf units and stacking vs. the 6-shelf unit allows me to do this since I have a top shelf for both if I ever decide to use them seperately. That wouldn't be an option for the 6-shelf unit, so if you think you might ever want to use them seperately I think it's worth the extra Hamilton it cost me (and associated delivery cost, but still worth it to me anyway). I looked online tirelessly and it does not appear that purchasing a single top shelf is an option, at least not now.
With regard to the unit itself I was surprised at how sturdy it is given its collapsible feature. The top shelf went on with a bit of difficulty, but nothing significant and I know the shelf certainly isn't going anywhere. The two units stacked perfectly. The shelves are hinged right to the unit. I have a different company's collapsible bookshelf and the shelves need to be removed and set aside seperately - still handier than a cumbersome bookshelf, but not as handy as this particular style. It was very well packaged and delivered very quickly.
If using them stacked as I do it is imperative that your heaviest items be placed on the bottom two shelves. If you have a very low pile carpet or hardwood floors there should be little to no tip factor to it. You may want to think about anchoring it to a wall if your carpeting has some serious pile to it if using as a 6-shelf unit - shouldn't be necessary as a 3-shelf unit, but still keep your heaviest things down low. I've had the unit about 2 weeks now and have not seen any buckling to the shelves with my heaviest books on them.
The largest item I could place on the shelf in vertical mode was a 3" binder so it does hold a fairly tall book. Because of the stack factor there are two shelves that are shorter which is nice for paperbacks or decorative items. I have some photo storage boxes that fit beautifully on there and give it a nice touch.
The stain color was pretty true to what appears on the webpage. I read reviews other places that stated the stain was darker than what was pictured so I went with the cherry rather than the walnut - my mistake - Walmart's pics are pretty true color-wise.
Ideal for college students, people who like to re-arrange their furniture frequently, and military families that may be on the move on a fairly regular basis. Highly recommended.
WARNING: 