The Need for Large Print

Large-print textbooks are reproductions of standard texts, sized up to accommodate the unique needs of the visually impaired student. For those with visual impairments, such as partial blindness, the sizes of type used in standard textbooks are too small to read, potentially preventing them from fully participating in a classroom experience. Unfortunately in the past, large-print reproductions of standard textbooks were often difficult to find and expensive to purchase. While some vision aids such as large-lens magnifiers and specialized CCTV units can magnify standard text to readable sizes, they are often expensive and unwieldy. The additional equipment can also place an unfair stigma on a child with visual impairment already struggling to fit in. Thanks to modern publishing and print-on-demand technology, numerous outlets are now available to find and purchase large-format textbooks.

Textbook Dealers

Just as with standard textbooks, many large-print editions are available at a steep discount when purchased secondhand. Several online retailers specialize in used textbook sales and even rentals. Searching through sites like Amazon.com, Alibris.com, or Textbooks.com is a great place to start. Search for the book's title initially and then refine your search for large-print editions.

Textbook Publishers

Many textbook publishers, in addition to their standard offering of textbooks, will also offer large-print editions. While these may not be immediately offered with classroom sets, they can often be ordered individually directly from the publisher. These large-print versions may be available on the publisher's website, but not always. If you can't easily find it online, look up the publisher's contact number; you can call to learn more, and can often order over the phone.

Large-Print Reproduction

Unfortunately, not all publishers offer large-print editions of their books. This problem is overcome by a number of specialty publishers that reproduce large-print versions of any book you send them. Some will also make adjustments in paper and ink color to accommodate other print reading difficulties. The specifics of cost and printing will vary from one site to another, with some offering black and white enlargements for less, and others offering unique binding options to cut down on book size. For more information, check out LargePrintSchoolBooks.com or HugePrint.com.

Source:

Library Reproduction Services: Large-Print School Books

Accessible Textbooks from APH

The Blind Reader's Page: Large-Print Books and Magazines