Crossword Genius

Libel judge may hear it but it's usually shelved (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bookcase

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'libel' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bookcase that I've seen before include "Article of furniture" , "rack" , "Reading matter cabinet" , "It will be shelved" , "Item of furniture" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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