There are a lot of different types of products out there to enhance the reading experience. Whether you're an avid reader or an occasional page turner, there's something out there for you. There's a pretty fine line between reading accessories and reading gifts, but in general an accessory is anything that actually improved the act of reading a book, magazine, or graphic novel.
There are four different categories of reading accessories available: Devices, functional tools, comfort enhancers, and organizational items.
Devices
Reading devices are electronics designed to directly enhance the reading experience.
Kindles and E-Readers
There are a lot of different reading tablets available, but perhaps the most well-known are the latest Kindle models. Kindles access digital books via the Kindle Store and utilize an E-ink screen that mimics the same glare-free appearance of a real book. Other E-readers include tablets, like any of the iPad models, or even a phone.
What's the best E-reader?
Choosing the best reading device for you depends on what you like to read, but generally the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite is what we recommend. It has the paper-like display, adjustable lighting, and easily connects to the Kindle Store.
Reading Lights and Lamps
Reading lights can come in many different forms. There are some options that wrap around your neck, clip on to the page, and even attach to the wall. Any lamp can be used as a reading light, but there are many products that are specially designed for that sole purpose.
Functional Tools
Functional reading tools are any analog item that serves a specific functional purpose.
Bookmarks
If you're reading an actual physical book, a bookmark is essential. It can be difficult to try to remember what page or chapter your on, so placing something to hold your place is always helpful. A bookmark can be pretty much anything you can slip into a book, but there are a lot of cool versions available out there.
Reading Glasses
There are prescription glasses and then their are reading glasses. Reading glasses are essentially magnifiers that you wear on your head and help make close-up text look bigger.
What strength reading glasses do you need?
Choosing the right reading glasses for you is all about deciding just how much magnification you actually need. Warby Parker has a reading glasses strength chart you can print out and use to determine what type of lens is needed.
Magnifiers
Magnifiers are any item that utilize a convex lens to make letters appear larger on the page. The classic magnifying glass is the primary example. These also have the added benefit of feeling like you're in a Sherlock Holmes book solving a mystery or a scholar skimming ancient texts.
Book Sleeves
A book sleeve is a padded pouch designed to carry and protect your books during travel. These are especially helpful for collectible hardcovers and paperbacks you don't wish to damage.
Comfort Enhancers
Anything designed to improved the physical experience of reading indirectly can be considered a comfort enhancers.
Reading Chairs
A dedicated reading chair can be any type of chair, but the best ones are usually designed for extended periods of sitting and lounging.
Lap Desks and Pillows
A good lap desk can offer up a a nice flat surface anywhere you sit and doubles as a laptop holder. Alternatively, you can use a pillow to prop up your arms into the ideal reading experience. Any pillow can be a reading pillow, but the best ones offer a higher level of support for your arms or back.
Stands and Holders
There are dedicated book stands and holders that will hold your book or e-reader up so that your arms don't have to.
Reading Blanket
A good reading blanket will fully envelop you into that cozy burrito position that's ideal for snuggling up with a book. Any blanket can be dubbed a reading blanket, but the best ones are usually large and very soft.
Organization and Storage
Owning a physical collection of books means you need somewhere to put them. There are various organizational options available as well as accessories that will make your collection stand out.
Bookcases and Shelves
The best way to store books is in or on top of a dedicated bookcase or shelf. A bookcase is usually an free-standing piece of furniture with build-in shelves in the front. Shelving tends to be anything you put directly onto your wall.
Bookends
Bookends are an item designed to be specifically placed on either end of a row of books. They are usually heavy and sturdy to help hold the books in place. The fun with bookends is just how customizable they can be, like the Gates of Argonath set that bring the iconic Lord of the Rings statues to life. You can also use these for a mixed media collection that includes video games and new 4K Blu-rays.
Book Nooks
Book nooks are different than bookends in that they are designed to be placed between books on a shelf. They usually depict some sort of miniature scene. There are quite a few book nook brands available, including many options from LEGO.
Bookcessories
Bookcessories are a new type of book accessory being released by Insight Editions. They are essentially a keychain case that house a tiny hardcover book. The first round of these accessories is now live at Amazon.
