Your Guide to Large Print Magazine Mainstays
For many years, some magazines have offered dedicated, easier-to-read editions to serve the needs of readers with low vision. These publications are not just magnified; they are thoughtfully redesigned with larger font sizes, high-contrast colors, and non-glare paper to create a more comfortable reading experience. The following titles are well-known for their large print versions:
- Reader's Digest Large Print: As one of the most widely recognized large print magazines, Reader's Digest offers an edition with all the features of the standard magazine—including jokes, stories, and puzzles—but printed in a larger, easier-to-read format. It is also printed on soothing, non-glare paper to reduce eye strain.
- Guideposts Large Print: This inspirational magazine is known for its true stories of hope and courage. Its large print edition makes it accessible to a wider audience, allowing more readers to enjoy its uplifting and faith-based content.
Digital and Accessible Magazine Options
In the digital age, many popular magazines have not created physical large print editions but offer an accessible alternative through online platforms. These digital versions provide the flexibility to customize your reading experience:
- Kindle Unlimited and Other E-Readers: Services like Amazon Kindle offer digital subscriptions to a vast selection of magazines, including People, Time, Smithsonian, and National Geographic. On an e-reader or tablet, you can easily adjust the font size to your preference, effectively creating your own large print edition.
- AARP Publications: While AARP does not offer a physical large print version of AARP The Magazine or the AARP Bulletin, it does provide a solution. You can access these publications online via your computer or tablet and use your browser's zoom feature to increase the font size significantly.
Comparison of Popular Large Print Options
| Feature | Reader's Digest Large Print | Guideposts Large Print | Digital Magazines (via Kindle) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Physical, easy-to-read magazine | Physical, easy-to-read magazine | Digital on e-reader, tablet, or phone |
| Content | Broad general interest, human interest stories | Inspirational, faith-based stories | Wide variety of news, hobbies, and lifestyle |
| Accessibility | Large font size, non-glare paper | Large font size, high-contrast | Adjustable font size, contrast, and layout |
| Subscription | Available from various online retailers | Available from various online retailers | Requires Kindle Unlimited or other digital subscription |
Finding Large Print Magazines at Your Local Library
Don't overlook your local public library, which is an excellent, free resource for accessing large print materials. Most libraries have a dedicated large print section with a wide variety of books and magazine issues. If you are looking for a specific title that the library does not carry, ask a librarian about their interlibrary loan program. This system allows them to borrow items from other libraries on your behalf, broadening your access to content.
What to Look for in an Accessible Magazine
Choosing the right magazine goes beyond just finding a large font. Consider these key features to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable reading experience:
- Font Size and Style: Look for a typeface that is clear and easy to read. A point size of 16 to 18 is a good starting point, as this is the standard minimum for large print materials.
- Non-Glare Paper: Matte or non-glare paper reduces reflections from light sources, which can be a major cause of eye strain. This is a standard feature in many dedicated large print editions.
- High Contrast: The contrast between the text and the background is important for legibility. Black text on a white or off-white background is typically the most effective combination.
- Layout and Spacing: Large, clear headings and generous spacing between lines can improve readability and help you navigate the page more easily.
Other Large Print Resources
Beyond magazines, a wide world of other accessible reading materials exists. The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled is an outstanding source for information on large print books, audiobooks, and braille materials.
For those who love puzzles, products like AARP Large Print Crossword Puzzles are available on sites like Amazon and offer another form of engaging, large-print entertainment. Many bookstores also have a section dedicated to large print fiction and non-fiction books, ensuring your reading options are not limited to periodicals.
Conclusion: The Joy of Reading in Large Print
Access to reading should not be restricted by visual challenges. Thanks to dedicated large print versions, flexible digital options, and library resources, a wealth of magazines and other materials are available for those seeking easier-to-read formats. Whether you prefer the tactile experience of a physical copy or the convenience of a customizable digital subscription, a large print option exists to keep you informed and entertained. Explore the possibilities and rediscover the simple joy of reading without straining your eyes.
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled offers an extensive range of resources for those with low vision, including audiobooks and braille materials, in addition to providing information on large print books.
