Abstract: A magnifying lens apparatus containing a magnifying lens mounted to a support housing. The apparatus contains at least one light emitting diode lamp to provide at least some illumination to an object being magnified by the magnifying lens. The LED lights may be of various colors. The lens may be pivoted or slid away from the housing to assist with viewing objects or texts. The apparatus may also include a means for retaining the lens in one position. The retaining means may be used to keep the lens from accidentally pivoting or sliding away from the housing when not in use or from pivoting or sliding into a closed position when the device is in use. The apparatus of the present invention may also include multiple magnifying lenses.