Finding books
There is no single alternative to standard print that meets the needs of everyone with sight loss. The different causes and conditions of sight loss as well as people’s individual preferences have led to a range of equipment and alternative formats to meet their needs.
The alternative formats have been developed over time, mainly through the work of voluntary and charitable organisations. This section helps in finding books in these formats. Readers may have to experiment with different formats before deciding on the best one for them.
Enlarged print
For many people with deteriorating eyesight, for example older people, an enlarged print can help them to go on reading. Larger print and giant print books are important resources for adults and children in public libraries.
Embossed print
Braille, created almost two hundred years ago, is the most famous embossed print format. Relatively small numbers of people use braille and Moon, another system of reading by touch. Expensive to produce and bulky, these formats are best produced and distributed by specialist organisations.
Audio
Sound recordings of poetry and prose have been made since the invention of audio techniques. Audio formats have changed over time, compact disc CD being the most popular today.
Electronic and digital
New technologies for capturing, producing and downloading audio files presents many new opportunities for people with sight loss to access a greater choice of reading.
Tactile
Methods to present diagrams, maps and plans in a tactile format are especially important for non-fiction and learning materials. Tactile books are a vital way for children with sight loss to begin to enjoy the reading experience.
The equipment section of this site gives information on equipment and assistive technology that people with sight loss can use to adapt standard print for themselves.
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- Date: May 2009
