Connecting a custom domain
DNS records, verification, and how to fall back to the subdomain.
Connect your own domain (like library.yoursite.org) to your Shelfwise library. Available on all paid plans.
How it works
You point a DNS record from your domain to Shelfwise. We provision an SSL certificate and serve your library at the new URL. Your subdomain (yourname.tryshelfwise.com) continues to work — both URLs point to the same library.
Step 1: Decide on a subdomain
Pick what you'd like patrons to see. Common patterns:
- library.yoursite.org
- catalog.yoursite.org
- read.yoursite.org
- books.yoursite.org
We recommend a subdomain rather than your root domain so your main website isn't affected.
Step 2: Add a CNAME record
In your domain's DNS settings (GoDaddy, Cloudflare, Namecheap, etc.):
- Type: CNAME
- Host/Name: library (or whatever subdomain you chose)
- Value/Target: cname.tryshelfwise.com
- TTL: Auto or 3600
Step 3: Add your domain in Shelfwise
In Settings → Appearance → Custom Domain, enter your domain (library.yoursite.org). Shelfwise checks the DNS record, provisions SSL, and confirms when ready — usually under 5 minutes, occasionally up to an hour.
Troubleshooting
DNS changes can take time to propagate. If verification fails:
- Confirm the CNAME record matches exactly (no typos, no http:// or trailing dots)
- Wait 15 minutes and click "Re-check"
- Check your domain provider's documentation for CNAME syntax — some require a trailing dot
Email hello@tryshelfwise.com if you get stuck
We've helped dozens of libraries set up custom domains and we'll walk you through it if needed.