Books are often selected on the basis of author, genre and sometimes - despite popular advice to the contrary - by the cover.

But now they can be even bought by the yard – thanks to an innovative new website launched by Somerset-based Bookbarn International.

Books by the Yard was launched on January 1 as the sister website of the Hallatrow-headquartered bookseller.

Janey Thornton said:

“Our Books by the Yard service was launched to provide a one-stop shop for designers, architects and set dressers looking for authentic background materials for instance on historic or period dramas on TV.

We have previously worked with designers at the BBC, Pinewood Studios, London’s Young Vic Theatre and the ss Great Britain Museum.

Our bulk book ordering service is specially designed to deliver hand-picked selections of books to your shelf.

It’s the perfect service for your personal and business requirements - whether you’re looking to create your own instant library or fill the shelves of a show home, a hotel room or a TV set.”

Books by the Yard will pick books completely to your specification.The service has already fulfilled individual orders from across the world for more than 10,000 books.

“We have the capacity, skills and experience to deal with larger orders quickly and efficiently. With more than 750,000 books in stock at our Hallatrow headquarters, we can supply books of any shape, size or period. You can request books by colour, binding, genre and more.“

Books by the Yard also offer wholesale opportunities such as books by the pallet.

Janey Thornton said:

“Simply tell us what you need and let our staff do the rest!”

Founded in 2000, Bookbarn is one of the largest booksellers in the UK - shipping orders from the warehouse in rural Somerset to customers all over the world daily.