Painting - Suggestions

I want to paint the cheapy bookcases you can get at Wal-Mart. Any suggestions on how to. I am DIY challenged so I would probably need to do the easiest thing possible

Probably just need to scuff sand and paint. Better results come from paint bought at a paint store, not in a paint department.

thanks! I will give it a try

It would probably be best to use a pigmented shellac primer. The folks at the paint store should be able to advise you of the proper coatings.

It would probably be best to use a pigmented shellac primer. The folks at the paint store should be able to advise you off the proper coatings.
I agree
This type of furniture more often than not doesn't have a laminate so much as a layer of paper
An ever-so-light scuff sand and light coat of pigmented shellac
should provide a good base for a paint job

As everyone else has said, use pigmented shellac primer. Know that this stuff is extra-nasty, so either do it in an open garage, or get yourself a respirator. Make sure you read the directions on the can for what solvent to use to clean your brush when you are done.

For your topcoat, use a Waterbourne Enamel, not wall paint. Wall paint is notorious for "blocking", meaning all your stuff is going to stick to the paint. magazines and hardback dust covers are especially prone to having paint peel the top layer of ink off.

ProClassic from Sherwin Williams, or Impervo from Benjamin Moore are good choices. Nothing HD or Lowe's sells is a good idea here.

Lastly, use a good brush to do this work. A 2 1/2" Angle Sash Purdy XL is a good, all-purpose brush. If you clean it properly after each use, it should last a lifetime, so don't be afraid of the $13 or so price tag.

SirWired

Is the OP going to spend more on coatings ($35 gal for BIN, $35 gal for topcoat) than the actual furniture?

Cheaply made furniture is not designed for longevity, nor painting. It would be best to go to somewhere like "Naked Furniture" or a wood shop and buy some solid pine bookcases. Then paint them.

I wouldn't waste my time putting lipstick on a pig.

Nope, you're right - probably more on materials and time than the bookcase cost in the first place.

What are these "cheapy" bookcases finished in? Or are they raw unfinished? Are they laminate, stained or painted white or off white?

What are these "cheapy" bookcases finished in? Or are they raw unfinished? Are they laminate, stained or painted white or off white?
Mostly they are a paper "laminate"

This type of furniture more often than not doesn't have a laminate so much as a layer of paper