A simple idea from Martha Stewart - Use ceramic vases as bookends. To give the vase more weight, fill a resealable plastic bag with sand and add it to the vase.
Using the sand to add weight is a great idea! Think of all of the various items that could be used for bookends besides a ceramic vase.
You could also use those smaller clear vases that you have sitting around. Fill them partially with sand and other decorative items (seasonal perhaps? - pincones/greenery clippings/tie some burlap around it? - a simple starfish? - use your imagination) to make the sand part of your decor.
Hope you're having a great day!
Linking to Works for Me Wednesdays at We Are That Family - check it out...