Building a multi-use barn for garage, animals, workshop studio

Here's a misnamed book. It's not really about building a barn; instead, it's How to Build a House 101. The differences between building a barn as Wagner describes it and building a house aren't all that great. A wise reader will pick up on this, and someone with a yen to build their own abode could easily use the book as a primer. On a more modest note, you could probably substitute garage or storage shed for barn in the title and still have an excellent book. Wagner covers all the basics--laying out the foundation, creating the walls and roof, adding basic electricity and plumbing, and the other exciting stuff you wind up undertaking in such a project. The illustrations are well thought out and executed, and the worksheets (encourage patrons to photocopy these and leave the book intact) that allow you to budget the cost of construction are excellent. If you're intending to build a structure 24 feet by 30 feet and use it for storage, you could, following Wagner's advice, create something that will still be standing 50 years hence. ~--Jon Kartman

As a guide for dreamers as well as those who are ``ready-to-build,'' this concise yet detailed overview of the construction of a large out-building will serve both beginning and experienced builders. From simple enclosures for storage to workshop space to fully finished living space, Wagner covers all the bases. His book, while short on design suggestions, is chock full of practical solutions to common site and building problems. Wagner writes in an upbeat, problem-solving tone that is encouraging to those who might otherwise be skeptical of the entire process. His suggestions are consistently economical and environmentally friendly. Excellent illustrations supplement the text. For large home improvement collections.-Alex Hartmann, INFOPHILE, Williamsport, Pa. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.