Collections for Everyone: Large Print

Is a library book truly accessible if the person who wants to read it can’t comfortably read the page? At Citrus Libraries our collection supports the needs of the community by investing in materials that reach all our patrons. These collections quietly help reduce barriers to reading and literacy that can be experienced by readers of all ages.

The Large Print collection is one of the largest, most utilized special collections held at Citrus Libraries. These titles are equipped with pages filled with text that are not just a few sizes larger than the average book, but also have more generous spacing between the lines, and are designed with readability and comfort in mind. Accessibility doesn’t mean patrons have to sacrifice their choice with limited selections. Our collection contains more than the newest Patterson or hot best seller, there are non-fiction, sci-fi and westerns, and more available to patrons.

While you may think that the patrons who access this collection the most are our most seasoned readers, we also see those who are experiencing vision changes or other visual impairments. For some, they just find it easier to enjoy their books when they aren’t straining to see the text. Readers don’t need a particular diagnosis or to be a certain age to benefit from large print titles.

Having accessible library services is more than a convenience; they are an essential part of the identity of Citrus Libraries. We want our patrons to not just have access to the title they’re interested in – we want them to be able to comfortably enjoy and independently read their book. A large print title reduces frustration and visual strain and allows readers to continue enjoying titles from their favorite authors and genres, and, at the end of the day, makes reading accessible for everyone as their personal needs may change.

Currently, Citrus Libraries collection holds over 9,000 large print books, and over 10,000 audio and E audio books. Last year these materials circulated over 95,000 times. These titles are available in all 5 library branches and can be accessed online. When searching in the online catalog or in person at a branch, Large Print materials are designated with an “LP” in the location or on the spine. While specific titles may not be available at all branches, they can be easily transferred at no cost between branches for pick-up at a reader’s home library. Not sure where to start? Ask us! Staff are always happy to help you find large print versions of your favorite authors, locate a particular genre, or request a title from another branch.

By investing in areas like large print collections, we ensure that we are creating a library where every library patron has the opportunity to discover, learn, and engage regardless of age, vision, and accessibility. In the coming months, we’ll take a closer look at some of Citrus Libraries’ other specialized collections, from Spanish-language learning materials to resources for people with dementia or dyslexia and explore why these collections are an essential part of what we provide to our community.