How does a magnifying glass works?

(http://www.calledtocommunion.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/magnifying-glass.jpg)

First things first, what is a magnifying glass?
As you can see in the image above, it is a convex lens which is used to produce a bigger image of the object.
An example is that you are trying to read a book.
However, the words are too small for you to see.
Thus, you can use the magnifying glass to magnify to the words, so that you are able to read. The glass is usually shaped in a circle with a handle attached to it for support.

Next, how does a magnifying glass works?
It works by creating a magnified virtual image of the object behind the lens. The distance between the lens and the object must be shorter than the focal length of the lens for it to work.

Source: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnifying_glass)