I have been hooked on reading since I first learned how to read.  Growing up, I would often be unable to put my book down and would keep reading with a flashlight after bedtime was long past.  We have all heard of the benefits of reading for children (although perhaps not after bedtime with a flashlight!), but as I’ve gotten older (and older), I’ve learned that reading is especially good for us as we age. It’s a great way to keep your mind active, improve memory, lower stress, and even sleep better. Plus, books can connect us with others—whether it’s chatting about a novel with a friend or joining a book club.

Of course, as we age, our eyesight can change. According to the American Optometric Association, beginning in the early to mid-40s, many adults may start to have problems seeing clearly at close distances, especially when reading and working on the computer. This is a normal change in the eyes’ focusing ability, called presbyopia, and will continue to progress over time. Yes, that is what I have! I have found that reading in dim lighting or seeing small print has gotten trickier. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can also make reading harder. But don’t worry! There are plenty of tools and resources that can help keep reading enjoyable and accessible.

Sometimes, small tweaks make a big difference. A brighter reading lamp or a good pair of reading glasses might be all you need. There are also handy visual aids like lighted magnifiers, book lights, and even reading strips that highlight one line at a time. The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire has some of these tools available to borrow—like a handheld magnifier, a bar magnifier with a guide line, or a full-page magnifying sheet for maps and newspapers.

The library has lots of options to help, too. Large print books are a popular choice—they have bigger fonts and more spacing, which makes them easier on the eyes. We’ve got a great selection, and if you’re looking for something we don’t have, we can usually get it from another library.

Prefer listening? We’ve got audiobooks on CD and Playaways (those little devices preloaded with one book). If you don’t have a CD player, no problem!  We’ve got one you can check out, including one available just for Home Delivery customers.

Digital books are another great option. With your library card, you can use Libby and Hoopla to download e-books and audiobooks to your phone, tablet, or computer for free. E-readers are also super convenient—they let you adjust the font and brightness to suit your needs.

Also, we have book clubs!  Reading and sharing your thoughts on a book, or even just listening to others can bring a sense of connection.  We have book clubs for all ages and a variety of interests.

For those who have difficulty getting to the library, we’ll come to you! Our Home Delivery Service delivers library materials to customers whose health or other circumstances make it too difficult for them to come to the library themselves. For more information, visit our website or give us a call at 715-839-4857.

Reading is something everyone should be able to enjoy, no matter your age or ability. So, come explore what the library has to offer—we’re here to help you keep loving books!