What is World Braille Day?
We celebrate World Braille Day every year on January 4th because it’s Louis Braille’s birthday. He’s the inventor of braille! Louis was born in 1809 in France and became blind after a childhood accident. But, he quickly mastered his new way of living. When Louis was only 15 years old, he created a reading and writing system based on Charles Barbier’s night writing system. We know Louis’ system today as braille. Adjusted over time, braille is now easier to read and used all over the world!
Why is it worth celebrating?
World Braille Day is a reminder of the importance of accessibility and independence for people who are blind or visually impaired. Today’s reality is that many establishments such as restaurants, banks, and hospitals don’t offer braille versions of their print materials like menus, statements, and bills. Because of this, people with blindness or visual impairments often don’t have the freedom to choose a meal on their own or keep their finances private.
This day spreads awareness about braille and other accessible forms of communication.
Celebrate Braille Literacy!
CNIB & Braille Literacy Canada (BLC) would like to invite you to participate in #BrailleMyWay – a braille social media campaign!
Whatever your age, no matter how often you use braille, share your spin on what braille helps you do. Embossed braille, refreshable braille, braille input on your iPhone, we want to hear your stories!
Share what #BrailleMyWay means to you. Here’s how:
- Make a ‘show and tell’ video. Tell the world why you love braille or how braille helps you.
- Keep it simple and most importantly, keep it short! 10-30 seconds max.
Whatever you do, make sure you tag your posts with the hashtag #BrailleMyWay so CNIB and BLC can like, share or retweet them!
Does BPL carry Braille Books?
We're pleased to say that we do! Browse our braille collection now.
