I'm haven't read all of the posts so this may have been mentioned already.
I have a book shelf and have hardbacks separated from paperbacks. Some of the larger pretty covers are facing out. The magazines in binders (I bought them a long time ago and they clip into the binder) and are in order by date. You could use empty tide boxes to put magazines in too - if they look ugly you could cover them. The handle makes it easier to carry/move. I have the magazines in order from oldest too newest. It's been a long time since I've picked up a new book or magazine. I received a couple antique irons as gifts and am using them as book ends.