Did you know that Arapahoe Libraries has dyslexic-friendly books in our collection? Today we’re going to talk about resources available in and outside of the library that make books more accessible for dyslexic readers.
Dyslexic-Friendly Fonts
There are certain fonts that are easier for dyslexic readers to read based on their shape. One of the most common fonts is called OpenDyslexic, opens a new window. It was designed by dyslexic people using research to inform their work, and their website also includes studies involving dyslexic readers, opens a new window using the font to see its impact on readability.
Using OpenDyslexic Online
This font is free to use and can be used pretty much anywhere for any purpose. This means you can use it for reading existing content or for writing. It can be integrated into a browser extension in Google Chrome and Firefox, opens a new window so everything you read in those browsers is automatically formatted in OpenDyslexic. It can also be integrated into word processors such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs, so students can write assignments for school or authors can write stories more easily.
Using OpenDyslexic for eBooks
OpenDyslexic can also be integrated into the ebook lending platform Libby. Libby has instructions, opens a new window that explain how to do this. One of the librarians also made a flier in OpenDyslexic, opens a new window explaining how to use it, making it easier for dyslexic users to change the settings on their own
Items Available for Checkout
Turning to library resources, Arapahoe Libraries offers books printed in dyslexic-friendly fonts. Follow the instructions below to discover which items are written in a dyslexic-friendly font and available for checkout. Most of the titles available now are intended for kids age 0-18. There are some titles in Spanish as well as English.
On the homepage, click the "Search" button on the top right corner. Two drop down windows and a search bar will appear.
In the second drop down window that says "Keyword", click it and change it to "Subject" and type in "dyslexic-friendly books"
Press the search button on your screen or the "Enter" button on your keyboard.
Below are a few dyslexic-friendly titles for teens in the library collection.
High Contrast Background
A few of these books are also printed on yellow pages. Some dyslexic readers find it easier to read black text on yellow pages versus white, and the Libby flier also has information about making this change for ebooks as well.
Listen and Read Along
There are other formats of books that might also be helpful, such as WonderBooks. These are physical books that have an MP3 player inside them that contain the audiobook track so they can listen along as they read.
The library has a wide variety of audiobooks for teens available as eAudiobooks on Libby and hoopla, PlayAway (MP3) and CD. You can use the filters on the left side of the library catalog to limit search results to include only these formats.
Large Print Options
There are also Large Print books available not just in the adult sections, but also in the Children and Young Adult collections. These are not designed specifically for dyslexic readers, but they may be worth trying.
Buying Dyslexic-Friendly Books
If you're interested in buying books for personal use, there are publishers and booksellers who specialize in producing dyslexic-friendly books.
Dyslexic Books, opens a new window
The Manitou School Bookshop, opens a new window (via Bookshop.org)
Storybook Cove, opens a new window
Everyone Can Be a Reader Series, opens a new window from Barnes & Noble
At the end of the day, finding titles and formats that work for you will likely require some trial and error. With a little patience and practice, we hope these tools will aid you or a loved one in their reading journey.
Have more questions about educator and parent resources or want help finding additional resources for dyslexic readers? Schedule an appointment with a librarian.
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