SLNC Accessible Books and Library Services (SLNC ABLS) now offers Braille eReaders, also known as refreshable braille displays, that users can borrow. This latest addition expands on the wonderful services and items available to North Carolinians through the State Library.
SLNC Accessible Books and Library Services is a special public library that provides books and magazines for individuals with visual, physical, or reading disabilities who are unable to use regular printed materials. It is a part of the State Library of North Carolina and a member of the network of regional libraries managed by the Library of Congress National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).
NLS offers a wide range of free accessible reading materials in braille and audio formats to those who are eligible. This includes Braille eReaders as well. The NLS eReaders are now being distributed to all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and overseas patrons.
Reading Through Touch
For individuals unfamiliar with braille, it is a tactile reading and writing code that uses combinations of up to six raised dots to represent letters, numbers, music notes, and symbols. These six dots, arranged in three rows with two columns, form what is known as a braille cell. One hundred thirty-three languages have a braille code, including English, Chinese, Spanish, Arabic, Hebrew, and many others.
Powerful Accessible Technology
Refreshable braille displays, also known as eReaders, are electronic devices that consist of small pins that move up and down through six holes representing the braille cell. To read, users run their fingers across the electronic cells in a manner similar to reading braille cells on paper. Unlike traditional Braille books that may contain several volumes, a Braille eReader can hold several hundred to thousands of titles. For instance, one book from the popular Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon consists of 18 volumes in physical braille, but a Braille eReader saves readers the trouble of carrying several volumes.
The Braille eReader available through the NLS (National Library Service) program comes with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, an SD card slot, a USB-A port for book file transfers, and USB-C charging capabilities. This program provides a game-changing opportunity for blind readers as Braille eReaders can be expensive, making it difficult for many readers to purchase one independently. This new service makes reading materials more accessible for patrons needing Braille materials. To see one in action, you can check out the series of instructional videos from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.
Opening a World of Possibilities
A Braille eReader opens up a world of possibilities for those who read Braille. It's not just a cool gadget; it's a gateway to breaking down barriers, improving Braille reading skills, and enhancing independence. With a Braille eReader, you can read whatever you want, whenever you want. The possibilities are endless, whether you're into fiction, nonfiction, music, poetry, cookbooks, biographies, journals, or more. You can even stay updated with the latest news and current events through newspapers and magazines. Whether you're an experienced Braille reader or just starting out, a Braille eReader is an incredibly helpful resource that can help you achieve your reading goals. Since its introduction to SLNC ABLS patrons in December 2023, the Braille eReader has received a positive response, with numerous requests to borrow the devices.
Tawanda Walters, who works as a Patron Processing Assistant at SLNC ABLS, emphasized the importance of Braille eReaders for reading and writing among braille users. She also praised the program for making these devices available for loan, enhancing the service level provided to library users.
Visit the SLNC Accessible Books and Library Services online if you or someone you know is interested in receiving a Braille eReader or signing up for services offered. You can contact your NLS regional library if you are not in North Carolina.