Plain language logo

A standard plain language logo has been used in Finland since the early 1990s for the identification of plain language books, newspapers, brochures and other applications:

The logo helps people recognize a plain language publication and also serves as a guarantee of quality. The logo for plain language books is granted by the Plain Language Working Party of the Plain Language Centre (subordinate to the Ministry of Education). The logos for other plain language publications are granted by the Plain Language Centre. Plain language Internet sites will soon also be able to apply for the logo from the Plain Language Centre. 

There is also a separate plain language logo for children’s books. Drawing the line between plain language and easy-to-read children’s books is difficult. Easy-to-read children’s books have a long tradition, they have been published in Finland since the 1970s. The general division is at present that plain language children’s book represent the easiest end of easy-to-read books.  The Working Party of the Plain Language Centre issues the logo for plain language children’s books as well.