Robert Irwin organized classes for low vision students in 1913 in Cleveland, Ohio. Two years later, he started a company to publish textbooks in large type. In 1936, in response to requests for large type books, APH printed a test edition, Everyday Manners for Boys and Girls.

Early large type books, printed from hand set monotype, were expensive. Experiments to develop an economical process continued for years. Most large type books are currently produced using a photocopying process. Some readers prefer to use an optical aid, such as a magnifying glass, to read standard size print. A number of new magnifiers appeared after World War Two, along with systems featuring a video camera and display monitor.

Suggest searches in this exhibit: Clear Type, Textbook, Optical