Reading glasses are eyewear worn by individuals who have difficulty reading small print or other close-up tasks due to age-related or other vision changes. They are typically designed with magnifying lenses which are stronger than those found in regular eyeglasses and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. Reading glasses are available in different strengths, or diopters, and can be found in a variety of styles and designs, such as full-frame, half-frame, and rimless. They are a popular solution for people who don't need prescription eyeglasses but need a little help seeing up close.

Reading glasses have been around for centuries, with evidence of their use dating back to the 13th century. The first recorded mention of glasses made specifically for reading dates back to the 14th century, when medieval scholar Vincent of Beauvais described using spectacles with convex lenses to read the small print.

In the 15th century, the popularity of reading glasses began to grow, and they became more widely available. The first mass-produced glasses were made in Venice, Italy, in the late 1400s. These glasses had convex lenses and were set in metal frames that rested on the nose.

In the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin invented bifocal glasses, which had lenses with two different prescriptions. This allowed the wearer to see both close-up and far away without having to switch glasses. In the 19th century, improvements in lens manufacturing techniques made it possible to produce glasses with more accurate and uniform prescriptions, leading to increased demand for reading glasses.

Today, reading glasses are available in a wide range of styles and materials, and are also available online! Platforms like EyeMyEye.com have both online shopping and offline discovery options. They continue to be an essential tool for many people who require correction for reading and other close-up tasks.

Here are some tips to keep in mind before buying reading glasses:

1. Know your prescription: Before purchasing reading glasses, visit an optometrist to determine the strength of your lens. You can use this information to find reading glasses that are appropriate for your needs.

2. Understand the frame material: Look for frames made from sturdy material like metal or acetate for long-lasting use. Also, consider the weight of the frame and choose one that feels comfortable to wear.

3. Check the frame size: Make sure the frame size is appropriate to your face size. Reading glasses that are too big or too small won't offer optimal reading comfort.

4. Choose the right lens type: Reading glasses come in many lens types including single vision, bifocal, and progressive lenses. Consider your specific visual needs and select the lens type that's right for you.

5. Consider the price: The cost of reading glasses can vary significantly. Look for a good quality pair that's within your budget.

6. Look for reviews: Read reviews of the store, brand or specific glasses you are considering. It can provide great insights into the product and whether it's worth the investment.

7. Check the return policy: Make sure the store has a fair and straightforward return policy so that you can return the glasses if you’re not satisfied with the purchase.

8. Style: Reading glasses come in various styles such as full-frame, half-frame, rimless, and folding. It is essential to choose a style that suits your face and style preference.

9. Lens Material: Reading glasses can be made from various lens materials, such as plastic, glass, or polycarbonate. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to choose the right one based on your lifestyle.

10. UV Protection: Consider getting reading glasses that have UV protection to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays.

What to avoid while buying reading glasses?

1. Wrong Magnification: The biggest mistake people make while buying reading glasses is not getting the correct magnification. Using glasses with incorrect magnification can lead to headaches and eye strain.

2. Inaccurate Fit: Buying glasses that are too tight or too loose can cause discomfort, headaches, and cause your vision to be blurry.

3. Ignoring Lifestyle Needs: Take into consideration your lifestyle when buying reading glasses. For example, if you are an avid reader, it's best to choose lightweight glasses with durable frames that can handle frequent wear.

4. Unnecessary Add-ons: Avoid buying reading glasses with unnecessary add-ons like non-prescription blue light filters, transition lenses, or anti-scratch coatings, etc. Adding these can increase the cost without necessarily improving vision.

In conclusion, the best reading glasses depend on personal preference and what features are essential. It is crucial to consider factors such as strength, style, lens material, UV protection, and price when purchasing reading glasses.