diff --git a/bookwyrm/view_actions.py b/bookwyrm/view_actions.py
index 3de1dd9d..b909a8f7 100644
--- a/bookwyrm/view_actions.py
+++ b/bookwyrm/view_actions.py
@@ -402,7 +402,7 @@ def shelve(request):
             request.user,
             desired_shelf,
             book,
-            privacy='public'
+            privacy=desired_shelf.privacy
         )
 
     return redirect('/')