Modular shelf construction

Claim 1

A bookcase or the like of modular construction, comprising a. at least a pair of rectangular vertical side frames, b. at least a pair of rectangular horizontal top and bottom frames rigidly connected at their opposite ends to a pair of said side frames at their upper and lower portions to form a rectangular frame assembly in which the side frames are mounted in spaced parallel relation by said top and bottom frames, c. shelf support means mounted to said side frames, and, d. a shelf mounted horizontally on said support means, e. each of said side frames being fabricated from a plurality of extrusion members each of a U-shaped cross-section and including spaced parallel side walls and a connecting transverse base wall, said side walls being formed with a pair of oppositely facing longitudinal grooves along the free edges thereof and a longitudinal rib formed along the centerline of the inner face of said base wall, said rib being formed with a longitudinal passage therein of C-shaped cross-section to engage screws connecting adjacent members, said rib being further formed with a longitudinal slot opening facing the open side of said extrusion member, f. a substantially flat facia strip mounted in said grooves, g. each of said members being formed with a second pair of oppositely facing grooves in the outer face of said base wall, h. a connecting tongue of a T-shaped cross-section mounted with the head thereof in said second pair of grooves, and, i. an edge grooved panel mounted within said side frames, the leg of said tongue extending into the grooved edges of said panel.