Skip to content

Building Braille Inclusion in Libraries

    Creator: National Network for Equitable Library Service, Braille Literacy Canada, and Centre for Equitable Library Access

    Date Updated: March 28, 2024

    Overview

    This video discusses making libraries more inclusive for braille readers. It provides practical tips for making storytimes more accessible by including braille and tactile materials, highlights accessibility challenges with digital services offered by libraries, and offers suggestions on making STEAM activities and maker spaces more inclusive. Resources for adult braille learners, such as the Braille Zoomers program, are highlighted. Lastly, the presentation encourages Libraries to promote braille resources and make staff aware of collections from organizations like NNELS and CELA. This session will be of interest to Library staff, Parents, Patrons, and Teachers of the Visually Impaired.

    The information on this page is summarized from the Building Braille Inclusion in Libraries webinar.

    Quick Facts

    The presentation covers a variety of activities and aspects of the library experience to make libraries more accessible with a particular focus on incorporating braille. The following information provides an overview of key points from the video:

    • Libraries can make storytimes more inclusive by including books in both print and braille formats, and using tactile objects from story boxes. Image descriptions should also be provided to provide equitable access to the content for blind/low vision readers.
    • Literacy kits focused on a theme can include both print books and dual media print/braille books.
    • Resources for purchasing print/braille books include American Printing House, National Braille Press, and Seedlings Braille Books for Children.
    • Screen readers are used by many blind and low vision individuals to access computers and mobile devices. They may be connected to braille displays which offers braille output in a digital format.
    • Common issues with reading apps include lack of image descriptions, unlabeled buttons, and limited visual adjustment options.
    • STEAM activities can be accessible to blind/low vision participants.
    • Tactile graphics are useful for conveying spatial information and concepts in STEAM fields that would be difficult through words alone.
    • Makerspaces can be made more accessible by ensuring sufficient space, accessible equipment controls, and accessible software.
    • Resources like NNELS and CELA provide braille collections that libraries can access for patrons.
    • Book clubs can be made more inclusive based on format choices, location accessibility, and discussion of accessibility aspects of titles.
    • Resources for new adult braille learners include the Braille Zoomers program and starter kits from Braille Literacy Canada.

    For more information, check out the Building Braille Inclusion in Libraries webinar.

    References

    Jesso, J., Hitchcock, D., Li, K., LaPaire, R., & Davidson, L. (2022, March 5). Building Braille inclusion in libraries. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxJg2jhaeGw