Large Print Book Clubs in Canada

Online and in-person book clubs that welcome readers who use large print, audiobooks, or e-readers.

Reading is better when you can talk about it with someone. But most book clubs don't think about accessibility โ€” they pick a title, assume everyone can read a standard paperback, and that's it. If you need large print, audiobook, or e-reader formats, here's how to find a club that works.

Library Book Clubs

Your public library is the best starting point. Most major Canadian library systems run book clubs โ€” many specifically designed for seniors or accessibility-focused readers. The books are free (borrowed from the library), and the clubs usually choose titles available in multiple formats including large print.

Toronto Public Library

Runs multiple book clubs across branches including senior-focused programs. Check "Programs & Events" on their website.

torontopubliclibrary.ca โ†’

Vancouver Public Library

VPL offers book clubs and reading programs with accessibility accommodations. Ask your branch librarian.

vpl.ca โ†’

Calgary Public Library

Book clubs at multiple locations. Many branches have programs specifically for older adults.

calgarylibrary.ca โ†’

Ottawa Public Library

Book discussion groups available in English and French. Many accessible to seniors and low-vision readers.

biblioottawalibrary.ca โ†’
Ask specifically: When calling your local library about book clubs, ask: "Do you have a book club that chooses titles available in large print or audiobook?" Many libraries will accommodate this request even if they don't advertise it. Librarians are usually happy to adjust.

Online Book Clubs

Online clubs meet through video calls (Zoom, Google Meet) or discussion forums. The format doesn't matter when you're meeting online โ€” you can read via large print, e-reader, or audiobook and still participate fully.

CNIB Book Clubs

The Canadian National Institute for the Blind runs phone and virtual book clubs specifically for people with vision loss. These clubs understand accessibility from the ground up โ€” titles are chosen based on availability in accessible formats.

Participation is free. Contact CNIB at cnib.ca or call 1-800-563-2642.

Goodreads Groups

Goodreads has thousands of reading groups. Search for "large print" or "senior readers" in the Groups section.

The discussions happen via text posts โ€” no need to be on camera. Some active groups include "Fans of Large Print Books" and "Senior Readers Book Club."

Facebook Groups

Search Facebook for "large print book club" or "senior book club Canada." Several active groups exist where members share recommendations, reviews, and reading lists. The format-agnostic nature of online discussion means your reading format doesn't matter.

Libro.fm Book Clubs

Libro.fm is an audiobook platform that supports independent bookstores. They run curated book clubs with monthly picks.

If you prefer audiobooks to large print, this is a good community. Choose a Canadian independent bookstore as your affiliate store.

In-Person Options Beyond Libraries

Senior Centres

Many community senior centres run book clubs as part of their programming. Check your local senior centre's activity calendar. These clubs tend to be format-flexible โ€” members read however they can and come to discuss.

Retirement Communities

If you or someone you know lives in a retirement home or assisted living facility, ask the activity coordinator about book clubs. Many facilities run them. If they don't, suggest starting one โ€” it's one of the most requested group activities in senior living.

Indigo Book Clubs

Indigo/Chapters stores sometimes host in-store book clubs. Check your local store's events page.

The advantage: you can browse the large print section while you're there and pick up the next month's selection. See our guide to buying large print books in Canada.

Starting Your Own Book Club

If nothing local works, starting one is simpler than you'd think.

Tech tip: For an online book club with seniors, Zoom is the easiest platform. Share a Zoom link by email, and ask everyone to join 10 minutes early the first time to sort out audio and video. Many libraries offer free digital literacy help if someone needs assistance setting up Zoom.

For book recommendations to kick off your club, see our lists of large print mysteries, romance novels, and the best large print books of 2026.

Note: We're not affiliated with any of the organizations listed on this page. Contact information and programs may change โ€” check directly with each organization for current details.