For the bookcase, make sure you use 100% acrylic resin, not vinyl/latex resin (which can make books stick to the surface). Both types are water based and marketed as "latex."

Should I paint all that stuff the same color and if so, the same finish? If the same finish, semi-gloss or satin?

The color is "white dove" by BM http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/pm19

I am planing on also painting the stairs rise and balusters the same color.

Iam just not sure if it should be the same finish for all and what finish to choose.

Thanks for any help!