Method and apparatus for magnifying and illuminating reading materials through the use of a plurality of magnifying lens which are adjustably placed on posts which are movable above the surface of the reading materials which materials are supported on a desk top or reading platform which is placed on the upper surface of a supporting base. The magnifying lens are supported by a series of manually and motor-driven posts which are placed on horizontal and vertical posts so that they can be moved above the surface of the reading material in an appropriate unique position which is adjustable to the requirements of the eye of the user, which user is suffering from muscular degeneration of the retina. The lens are moved by a series of screw drives which are housed in the vertical and horizontal posts. Means for lighting is adjustably supported on an arm placed above the lens so that light from the lamp can shine through the lens and onto the surface of the reading materials. The apparatus can be folded so as fit into a carrying case and may be operated by either AC or DC current.