Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
A bedroom reading chair should let you escape into a book, not fight discomfort. Between the seat height that works for your body and the arm style that actually lets you hold a book, there is a lot more to get right here than first meets the eye. The trouble is, every listing says “comfortable,” and that word alone tells you almost nothing useful. You need a chair that fits your height, supports your lower back, and resists sagging through daily use. This guide cuts through the marketing to find the chair that earns its spot in your bedroom.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind KitchPrep. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you share a tiny apartment or have a sprawling master suite, the right bedroom reading chair changes how you unwind — you just need to know which dimensions, materials, and support levels match your body and your space.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Bedroom Reading Chair
Picking a bedroom reading chair means balancing comfort during long sessions with whether it fits your space. The seats are smaller than living room sofas, the arms are lower or higher to accommodate a book or a cup of tea, and the fill material determines whether you sink in slow or spring right back. Here is what to watch for so you end up with a chair you use every evening.
Seat height and your own leg length
The height of the seat from the floor determines whether your feet rest flat when you sit back. If the seat is too high, your thighs will press against the front edge and cut off circulation over a long chapter. If it is too low, you will feel like you are kneeling, which puts pressure on your lower back. Most accent chairs have a seat height between 17 and 20 inches — measure your own shin from floor to the back of your knee and shoot for a match within about an inch.
Arm height for holding a book
Reading chairs put your arms in a different position than a living room lounger. Padded arms that sit higher (around 23 to 25 inches) let you rest a forearm or a paperback without hunching forward. Lower arms look sleek but force you to either raise your elbows toward your ears or let the book rest on your lap, which can strain your neck over 45 minutes. If you plan to read paperbacks or a tablet, look for arm height over 23 inches.
Foam density and the long sit
High-density foam (sometimes labeled as “memory foam” or “sponge”) resists sagging over years of daily use, but it often feels firmer on day one than you expect. Lower-density foam feels plush from the start but can develop a permanent dent within six months of regular afternoon reading sessions. If you are buying a chair for daily reading that will see real hours, prioritize high-density foam even if it means a break-in period of a couple weeks.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Weight Capacity | Frame Material | Fill Material | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COLAMY Modern Wingback★ Best Overall | Classic style meets firm all-day support | 300 lbs | Rubberwood | Memory Foam, Sponge | Amazon |
| VINGLI Premium CorduroyPremium Pick | Compact mid-century with included lumbar pillow | — | Rubberwood | High-Resilience Foam | Amazon |
| Vogue Furniture Direct Mid CenturyTop Performer | Vibrant color with near-perfect ratings | — | Wood | Foam | Amazon |
| choairy Accent Chair | Removable cushions with a 350-lb limit | 350 lbs | Wood | Sponge | Amazon |
| zzlay 360° Swivel with Storage Ottoman | Swivel mobility with hidden footrest storage | — | Wood | Foam | Amazon |
| Yaheetech Recliner Chair | Three-position recline for small rooms | 264 lbs | Engineered Wood | Foam | Amazon |
| HUIMO Tufted Club Chair | Classic button-tufted look with 400-lb capacity | 400 lbs | Wood | High-density Foam | Amazon |
| LegacyAmerhome 360° Swivel | Wide square seat on a smooth swivel base | 350 lbs | Engineered Wood | — | Amazon |
| ONBRILL Oversized Accent Chair | Extra-wide seat with tool-free assembly | 350 lbs | Wood | Foam | Amazon |
| COLAMY Velvet Barrel Chair Set of 2 | Modern barrel silhouette in a two-pack | 275 lbs | Rubberwood | Memory Foam, Sponge | Amazon |
| Newnno Velvet Accent Chair Set of 2 | Gold metal legs with included waist pillow | 300 lbs | Metal | High-density Sponge | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. COLAMY Modern Wingback Living Room Chair
Our pick — 4.5★ from 400+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The wingback that pairs timeless looks with a 300-lb solid rubberwood frame and memory-foam fill
This chair earns its “best overall” label by balancing classic style with all-day support. The wingback silhouette with padded armrests (23.23 inches of arm height) lets you settle into a long afternoon with a novel, giving your shoulders and arms a natural resting place that does not force a hunch. Multiple layers of high-density foam and memory foam keep you from bottoming out — buyers report that the seat feels firm initially, then softens just enough over the first few weeks to match your body.
At 300 lbs of weight capacity on a solid wood frame with rubberwood legs and non-slip pads, this is not a chair that wobbles or creaks when you shift positions mid-chapter. The crowd favorite aspect is appearance, with the beige chenille fabric praised for feeling high-end without the high-end price. Assembly takes about 20 minutes solo, with the legs and tools stashed in a cloth bag right under the seat cushion so you do not hunt around for hardware. The minor trade-off is that the same firm cushioning some love for support feels too stiff to others during the first couple of sits.
What wins owners over
- Memory-foam and sponge fill rated for 300 lbs resists sagging over time
- Padded arms at 23.23 inches support a forearm or book without strain
- Appearance gets the most mentions — 144 owners call it beautiful
- Solo assembly in about 20 minutes with tools stored under the seat
The honest catch
- Firmness is the most mixed aspect — 48 owners mention it, some find it too stiff for their taste
Reach for this if: you want a comfortable, durable reading chair with classic looks that will hold up to daily use for years.
Look elsewhere if: you prefer a plush, sink-in feel right from the start — this one needs a few weeks of sitting to break in.
2. VINGLI Upgraded Premium Corduroy Accent Chair
A low-down mid-century charmer with corduroy fabric and a lumbar pillow that steals the show
This chair brings the cozy texture of corduroy and a dedicated lumbar pillow into a compact package that fits a tight corner or a covered balcony with ease. The high-resilience foam cushions retain their shape after long sits, and the curved wooden armrests give your arms a natural spot to rest while holding a paperback. Buyers are charmed by the mid-century aesthetic — the brown corduroy paired with rubberwood arms gets noticed, and the included lumbar pillow means you are not hunting for a throw cushion to support your lower back. The assembly is straightforward, and the corduroy fabric resists pilling well enough that owners with toddlers report it holding up fine.
The catch — and it is a real one — is that the seat sits quite low to the ground. As buyers put it, the chair is “quite low to the ground and probably would be difficult for anyone who had mobility issues to get in and out of.” At 13.9 pounds, this is also one of the lighter options on the list, which helps you move it around but does not deliver the same planted feel as heavier frames. If you are tall or have knee concerns, this is not the chair you want for a two-hour read.
Best for mid-century lovers: the corduroy texture and warm wood arms make this a standout accent piece that fits tight spaces beautifully.
Watch the seat height: the low profile is a dealbreaker for anyone with limited mobility or bad knees, and it is not great for very tall readers.
This one fits if: you are after a stylish compact chair for a reading nook or balcony where the low seat becomes part of the relaxed, laid-back vibe.
Think twice if: you are over 5 ft 10 in or have any trouble bending to stand up from a low seat.
3. Vogue Furniture Direct Mid Century Accent Chair
A bright, compact mid-century chair that earns near-perfect marks from early owners for comfort and ease
With a near-perfect score from early owners, this chair is proof that something compact can still deliver deep comfort for reading. The seat measures 21 inches deep by 28.5 inches wide by 32.2 inches high — noticeably smaller than the oversized options on this list, which means it slides into a bedroom corner or a narrow apartment spot without overwhelming the space. High-resilience foam wrapped in breathable fabric gives you a supportive seat that owners describe as soft but not too firm, and the gently reclined backrest takes pressure off your spine during longer sessions. Assembly is the fastest here — owners mention snapping it together in under 10 minutes, with one 80-year-old buyer noting it was very easy solo.
The look here is undeniably vibrant: the green version draws immediate compliments, and owners consistently say it improve the room’s style. A small caveat: a few find the seat less comfortable for extended lounging than they hoped, calling it better as a spot to sit and put on shoes than to spend a whole evening. If your reading sessions run two-plus hours, you may want to feel this seat foam first.
Why early owners love it
- Appearance gets the most mentions — 19 owners call it stylish and elevating
- Assembly in under 10 minutes with clear instructions
- Compact footprint (21 inches deep) fits tight corners and small bedrooms
- High-resilience foam gets positive marks for supportive softness
The honest trade-off
- Rated as comfortable by 18 owners, but a few note it is “not super comfortable for sitting” for very long stretches
Grab this if: you want a stylish, compact reading chair that fits a tight space and assembles in minutes with near-perfect owner satisfaction.
skip it if: you are tall (over 6 ft) or plan to spend entire evenings reading — the compact size may feel restrictive after an hour or two.
4. choairy Accent Chair (Mid Century Modern)
Removable, washable cushions and a 350-lb capacity make this the most practical reading chair on the list
This chair is built for anyone who has ever spilled coffee on an armchair and wished they could just throw the cushion in the wash. Both the backrest and seat cushion are removable and washable, and the sponge fill inside can be fluffed back up to prevent that saggy look that plagues cheap chairs after a few months. Owners consistently mention that the beige color option (in velvet or faux leather) looks far more expensive than the price tag suggests.
The trade-off with this one is size: at roughly 31 inches wide and deep, it is on the smaller side, and a few owners note the frame is “slightly small but not a deal breaker.” Assembly requires a bit more effort than the quickest options here — some buyers found it challenging alone because of a label misplacement on the seat frame. But for day-to-day reading, the combination of a supportive thick cushion and the confidence that comes with a washable cover makes this a practical choice for daily use.
Smart choice for practical readers: removable, washable cushions and a 350-lb weight limit deliver real durability for daily use.
Note the size: smaller than the oversized options; best for average-height readers or smaller bedrooms.
Ideal for: anyone who values easy maintenance (removable, washable cushions) and needs a chair that supports up to 350 lbs without wobbling.
Not ideal for: very tall people or those who want a spacious, oversized seat for sprawling out.
5. zzlay 360° Swivel Accent Chair with Storage Ottoman
A small barrel chair that spins a full circle and hides its ottoman within for clever space-saving
This swivel chair lets you spin toward your nightstand without getting up. The 360-degree rotating base lets you turn freely during conversations or to grab a bookmark, and the matching ottoman slips underneath to keep the room uncluttered. The seat measures 18.9 inches deep by 18.9 inches wide by 15.75 inches high — which is genuinely compact — and the velvet fabric over high-density foam creates a cozy, supportive seat that owners describe as cat-approved. Assembly requires no tools at all, and the ottoman doubles as hidden storage for small items like reading glasses or a tablet charger.
But this is a small chair, and you should take that seriously. Owners call them “Hobbit chairs” and note they sit lower than expected, which means taller readers or anyone with long legs will find their knees up around their chin. The backrest is also relatively low (mid-back level), and one owner reports discomfort leaning back without having their feet up on the ottoman. This is a perfect pick for a petite person or a child’s reading nook in a tight bedroom, but for a full-grown adult looking to spend hours reading, the dimensions are too restrictive.
What works
- 360-degree swivel for easy movement without standing
- Ottoman with hidden storage fits under the chair to save floor space
- Tool-free assembly; velvet material is easy to clean of pet hair
The honest catch
- Very small seat — described as “Hobbit chairs” by owners — limits use to petite readers or kids
- Backrest is too low for comfortable leaning back without feet on ottoman
Best for: a compact reading corner for a smaller person, a teen, or a child who wants a fun swivel seat with hidden storage.
Not for: tall adults or anyone who wants to lean back comfortably for long reading sessions.
6. Yaheetech Recliner Chair with 3 Adjustable Angles
A small recliner wrapped in cozy sherpa boucle that offers three positions for under 15 square feet
This is arguably the most versatile option on the list because it does something no other pick here does: it reclines. The mechanism offers three positions — sit upright, improve your legs, or lie flat — which makes it a genuine reading-to-napping chair for a small bedroom. The sherpa boucle fabric and foam-filled backrest with pocket springs give it a “marshmallow-like” feel that owners rave about for both comfort and appearance; the ivory version looks expensive while taking up surprisingly little floor space. The compact size means it fits neatly into the corner of a small bedroom or even an RV slide-out, and assembly is remarkably quick — attach the four legs, connect the backrest to the seat, and you are done in a couple minutes.
The most common discussion point among owners is the size, and it is a real split decision. At a 19.5-inch backrest width, some find it perfect for compact spaces while others say it is too small for a full-size adult to lounge in. The reclining mechanism also gets mixed feedback — some owners find the footrest difficult to engage or the positions hard to lock. The weight limit of 264 lbs is lower than the 300-350 lbs of other picks here. If you are over 5 ft 10 in or over 250 lbs, this chair may feel cramped, and the recline may not work smoothly for you.
Great for small-space reclining: three positions in a compact boucle package that fits bedrooms and RVs alike.
Size and recline caveats: some owners find it too small, and the recline mechanism can be finicky depending on body weight.
Choose this if: you want a compact recliner for occasional reading and napping in a small bedroom or RV, and you are under 5 ft 10 in.
Think twice if: you are tall, heavier than 264 lbs, or want a recliner with a buttery-smooth mechanism that works every time without effort.
7. HUIMO Tufted Upholstered Club Chair with Lumbar Pillow
A button-tufted club chair with a 400-lb weight limit that looks expensive and assembles in 15 minutes
The button-tufted backrest and linen-look polyester fabric give it a classic club-chair silhouette that owners specifically praise for adding warmth to a bedroom reading nook. The included lumbar pillow snaps onto the seat for lower-back support — a thoughtful detail that means you do not have to buy a separate cushion. At 33.7 pounds, it has a solid, planted feel that cheaper lightweight chairs lack.
The trade-off that shows up across owner reviews is seat hardness: 15 owners specifically mention the cushion is very firm. One owner described it as “hard,” and while some prefer a firm seat for posture, others found it uncomfortable for extended sitting. The blue color (indigo blue in the spec) gets consistent praise — owners call it beautiful and say it looks more expensive than the price suggests. If you need a chair that can handle a heavier person or just want a frame that will not feel rickety after a year, this is a strong contender, but be prepared for a firm sit.
What stands out
- Highest weight capacity on the list — supports up to 400 lbs on a solid wood frame
- Button-tufted back and linen-look fabric get consistent praise for looking expensive
- Included lumbar pillow provides dedicated lower-back support
- Assembly takes about 15 minutes with clear instructions
The honest catch
- 15 owners call out the seat as hard — this is the most-discussed negative aspect
- The cushion is firm enough that some find it uncomfortable for long reading sessions
Reach for this if: you need a very sturdy, high-capacity chair (400 lbs) that looks elegant and supports your lower back with the included pillow.
pass on it if: you want a plush, sink-in cushion for long hours of reading — this one is firm on purpose.
8. LegacyAmerhome 360° Swivel Accent Chair
A square, pillow-top swivel chair with a 6.1-inch thick seat that weighs a hefty 63.9 pounds
This is the swivel chair for people who do not want to feel every bump in the rotation. The engineered wood frame and metal base combine for a weight of 63.9 lbs which gives it a rock-solid planted feel that does not wobble or scoot when you swivel. The seat cushion is a generous 6.1 inches thick, and the pillow-top backrest adds softness without losing support. At 34 inches deep by 30 inches wide, the square shape gives you more room to shift positions than a typical barrel or wingback chair, and the smooth 360-degree rotation means you can turn toward your nightstand or a conversation partner without leaving the seat.
The biggest downside customers note is that the chair “sits back too much” — the angle of the backrest is more reclined than upright, which may force you to sit forward or add extra pillows if you prefer an upright reading posture. The beige chenille fabric in the spec is soft and durable, but the deep seat depth (34 inches) can be overwhelming for shorter readers whose legs do not reach the floor. At this weight, you are not moving it around your room on a whim — it is a permanent corner piece.
Best for stationary swivel use: the 63.9-lb weight and metal base mean no wobble, and the 6.1-inch seat cushion is the thickest on the list.
Note the recline: the backrest angle may be too laid back for upright reading, and the 34-inch depth is long for shorter people.
Pick this if: you want a very stable, heavy swivel chair with a thick plush seat for lounging and occasional reading in a spot you will not move.
it’s not for you if: you need an upright reading posture or have a small bedroom where you will need to relocate the chair.
9. ONBRILL Oversized Accent Chair (41 Inch Wide)
A massive 41-inch-wide armchair with tool-free assembly that comfortably fits a person plus a large dog
If your reading style involves sprawling, curling up with a pet, or sharing the seat with a small child, this is the chair that gives you the room to do it. The seat measures 41.3 inches wide and 30.7 inches deep, which is enough space for a tall adult to sit cross-legged or for a 90-pound German shepherd to curl up beside them (as one owner verified). The chenille fabric is skin-friendly and breathable, the padded arms sit at 24.8 inches, and the foam-filled seat with pocket springs provides firm support that does not sag under 350 lbs. Assembly requires zero tools and takes under 15 minutes.
The only real drawback noted by owners is that the firm back support may eventually need padding replacement down the line — one reviewer noted it as a future concern rather than an immediate problem. At 41 inches wide, you also need to measure your space carefully: this chair will dominate a small bedroom corner and may block a door swing or closet access. If you have the room and want a spacious, pet-friendly reading chair that assembles without any tools, this is the obvious choice.
Why it works for spacious readers
- 41.3-inch width is the widest on this list — fits an adult plus a large pet or child
- Tool-free assembly takes under 15 minutes; frame supports 350 lbs
- Padded arms at 24.8 inches provide excellent support for holding a book
- Firm back and pocket-spring seat get consistent praise for comfort
The honest trade-off
- Very wide — will dominate a small bedroom or tight corner; measure your space first
- A few owners note the padding may need eventual replacement, though not an urgent issue
Great for: readers who want to sprawl, share the seat with a pet or child, or need a wide, firm chair that assembles without tools.
Not for: anyone with a small bedroom or limited floor space — this chair is massive and needs room to breathe.
10. COLAMY Modern Velvet Barrel Chair Set of 2
A two-pack of velvet barrel chairs with a three-legged base that looks stunning but demands careful sitting
If you need two matching chairs for a bedroom sitting area or a small lounge, this set delivers the consistency of a pair at a price that often beats buying two singles. The velvet upholstery over memory foam and sponge fill gives a smooth, skin-friendly feel that owners describe as “looking far more expensive than their price,” and the curved barrel backrest wraps around you for a cozy reading position. The three-legged design is a deliberate modern style choice — it gives the chair a lighter, floating look compared to four-legged chairs. Assembly takes under 10 minutes per chair, and the 27.52-inch backrest width is generous for velvet barrel chairs.
The stability concern here is real and should not be ignored. The most-discussed negative aspect among owners is stability, with 16 mentions specifically about tipping. Owners warn that the chair “can tip if leaning to the side or on edge” — normal centered sitting is fine, but if you lean forward to pick up a book or sit on the edge of the seat, the chair wants to tip. The 275-lb weight capacity is also the lowest on this list, which limits who can sit comfortably without worry. This set is best for light reading in a bedroom where you sit upright and centered, not for leaning or sprawling.
Stylish two-pack for light use: velvet, memory foam, and a modern three-legged base make a visual statement — but stability is a real concern.
Watch the tipping risk: 16 owners flag stability issues; sit centered and do not lean forward or to the side on these chairs.
Best for: a visually coordinated bedroom sitting area where you sit upright and centered for light reading or conversations.
Not for: anyone who leans, sprawls, or has pets/kids who may sit on the edge — the tipping risk is a genuine everyday concern.
11. Newnno Velvet Accent Chair Set of 2 (Gold Legs)
A pair of barrel chairs with gold metal legs and a waist pillow that look like they belong in a boutique hotel
This is the chair your guests will comment on first. The yellow velvet upholstery paired with gold metal legs makes a dramatic style statement that owners say “easily complements various decor styles,” and the U-shaped barrel design with an included waist pillow provides lumbar support that is rare in this price range. The metal frame is genuinely sturdy — it supports up to 300 lbs and feels solid under you, unlike some metal-leg chairs that wobble. Assembly is among the easiest on the list because the chair body arrives mostly assembled; you just screw on the four gold legs. The seat is filled with high-density sponge that is thicker and softer than standard foam.
The main caveat that shows up repeatedly is seat stiffness. Multiple owners describe the seat cushions as “stiff instead of plush” and note they hope the foam softens over time. The 25.75-inch depth by 28.25-inch width is compact, so taller readers may find the seat too short for comfortable cross-legged sitting. If you prioritize visual impact over plush seating and do not mind a firmer initial feel, this is the most elegant choice on the list. The 1-year warranty from Newnno adds confidence that some other options do not offer.
What makes it stand out
- Gold metal legs and velvet upholstery create a boutique-hotel look that owners consistently praise
- Included waist pillow provides dedicated lumbar support
- Metal frame supports 300 lbs and feels solid; 1-year warranty from the manufacturer
- Comes mostly pre-assembled — just attach the four legs
The honest catch
- Seat quality is the most mixed aspect — 7 owners call the cushion stiff and hope it softens
- Compact dimensions (25.75 inches deep) may feel small for taller or heavier readers
Choose this if: you want a striking, stylish pair of chairs with gold accents that serve as a focal point in your bedroom reading nook.
look elsewhere if: plush, soft seating is your top priority — the foam here is deliberately firm and may not break in to your liking.
Understanding the Specs
Weight Capacity
This number tells you the maximum load the chair frame can safely hold over time. A chair rated for 400 lbs (like the HUIMO club chair) has a thicker frame and stronger joinery than one rated for 275 lbs (like the COLAMY barrel chair). If you are a larger person or want a chair that will not feel rickety with two people occasionally sitting on it, aim for a capacity above 300 lbs. Lower capacities (264 lbs or 275 lbs) are fine for lighter use but will feel less solid under heavier loads.
Fill Material
What is inside the seat cushion determines how it feels when you sit. High-density memory foam or sponge (found in the COLAMY wingback and the choairy chair) resists sagging and bounces back after you stand up — but feels firmer at first. Basic foam is cheaper but develops a permanent dent faster. A “sponge” label is industry jargon for polyurethane foam; “memory foam” means it warms up and conforms to your body shape. If you read for hours daily, choose high-density foam over basic foam.
Arm Height
Measured from the floor to the top of the armrest, this spec directly affects reading comfort. Arms at 23-25 inches (like the COLAMY wingback’s 23.23 inches or the ONBRILL’s 24.8 inches) let you rest your forearm comfortably while holding a book or tablet. Lower arms (around 20 inches) force you to either hunch forward or keep the book in your lap, which strains your neck after 30 minutes. If reading is your primary use, arm height matters more than any other dimension.
Frame Material
This is the skeleton of the chair and determines long-term durability. Rubberwood (used by COLAMY and VINGLI) is a dense, sustainable hardwood that resists warping. Engineered wood (used by Yaheetech and LegacyAmerhome) is a composite of wood fibers and glue — it is cheaper and lighter but less durable over many years. Metal frames (used by the Newnno gold-leg chairs) are strong and light but can feel cold or clanky. For a chair you plan to keep in your bedroom for years, rubberwood or solid wood is the best choice.
FAQ
How much space do I need for a bedroom reading chair?
What is the best seat height for reading?
Can I use a bedroom reading chair as my main desk chair?
How long does a foam-filled reading chair typically last?
What is the difference between a barrel chair and a wingback chair?
Is a 300-lb weight capacity enough for daily use?
What fabric is easiest to clean in a bedroom reading chair?
Should I get a swivel chair for reading?
How do I know if a chair is too firm or too soft for me?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For the majority of shoppers, the clear winner for a bedroom reading chair is the COLAMY Modern Wingback because it combines a classic, durable rubberwood frame with memory-foam fill, 300-lb capacity, and the arm height you need for comfortable reading — all with minimal assembly and a broad fan base. If you prefer a swivel that lets you spin toward your nightstand, the LegacyAmerhome 360° Swivel delivers a thick 6.1-inch cushion and a planted 63.9-lb feel. And for the reader who wants to sprawl out with a pet or a child, the ONBRILL Oversized at 41 inches wide is the one to reach for. Whichever you choose, the right chair turns a corner of your bedroom into the spot you actually look forward to curling up in.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, KitchPrep earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.
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