Magnifiers could be either hand-held or mounted on stands and are designed to help low vision patients with short-term spotting tasks. Both the hand-held and the stand-mounted magnifier can be illuminated for better contrast. The typical uses of magnifiers are: For reading newspapers and books for short periods Checking labels and prices while shopping Reading dials, gauges, and measuring tapes at work Checking mail, phone numbers, and addresses Magnifiers can also be used as a training aid for patients who don't like the close working distance of spectacles.