Chris, I haven't seen the article you're thinking of however if you do
a search for "one sheet skiff" and "two sheet skiff" you should come
across some plans for plywood boats that would work as a book case. The
One Sheet Skiff is probably just the right size for a bookcase. It's
not bad as a little rowboat either.

It's a pretty simple hull and you should be able to knock one out in a
weekend.

g'luck