Michael Rennie from ABC News Breakfast visited Braille House recently, and did a story about Braille House turning 125 years old.
Watch the story on abc news
Braille House, a treasured institution in Brisbane, proudly celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2023. As a leader in promoting braille literacy, Braille House has been instrumental in empowering blind and low-vision individuals through access to braille books and resources. Located in Annerley, Braille House continues to foster a love of reading and writing among its patrons, helping bridge the literacy gap for the blind and vision impaired community.
A History of Impact: Braille House’s 125-Year Journey
Since opening its doors in 1897, Braille House has been a lifeline for individuals facing literacy challenges. Today, it is home to one of the oldest braille libraries in the world, housing more than 2,500 titles and 12,000 volumes. These resources are accessed by readers across Australia, providing crucial support for education and personal growth.
Long-time patron Tiana Offord spoke of the profound impact Braille House has had on her life:
“I’ve been attending the annual Braille Literacy Challenges here since I was seven. Braille House has been such a huge part of my childhood, from Braille Club to fun activity days. It truly opened doors for me.”
Now pursuing a degree in languages and linguistics, Tiana highlighted the importance of braille in her learning journey:
“Reading in braille helps me retain information better than using audio technology. For me, braille is the key to effective learning and literacy.”
Braille House: Powered by Volunteers and Community
Braille House’s 125th anniversary is a testament to the dedication of its volunteers, who play a critical role in transcribing and maintaining its vast collection of Braille books. Richard Barker, Braille House General Manager, reflected on the importance of touch literacy:
“Braille is the foundation of reading and writing for those who are blind or have low vision. It opens the door to knowledge, just as Louis Braille envisioned. The work our volunteers do ensures Braille House continues to thrive.”
To keep pace with modern needs, Braille House is working towards a fit-for-purpose facility that will support its mission for future generations. As Richard put it:
“While volunteers are essential, we need a space that meets today’s standards and allows us to expand our services.”
Preserving Braille History and Expanding Access
Visitors to Braille House can explore a collection of antique braille machines from the Royal National Institute for the Blind in London. These historic machines, alongside Braille House’s modern resources, highlight the ongoing importance of braille in literacy.
Braille House librarian Janet explained how far-reaching their services are:
“We have readers in nearly every state, including Tasmania. It’s exciting to know that our braille library supports people all across the country, though getting books to remote areas can take time.”
Long-time volunteer Sue Wagner is one of many who help create resources like braille alphabet cards, ensuring that children and adults alike can learn and benefit from braille.
Tiana emphasised the critical role Braille House plays in supporting young readers:
“In most school libraries, sighted kids can borrow books freely, but blind children often have no access to braille books. Braille House provides that access and helps foster a love of reading for all children.”
A Call to Action: Support Braille House’s Mission
As Braille House celebrates its 125th anniversary, its mission to promote touch literacy and provide access to braille books remains as vital as ever. With continued community support, Braille House will thrive for another 125 years, ensuring that blind and low-vision Australians can access the resources they need.
Support Braille House today and help unlock the world of literacy for blind and low-vision individuals across Australia.
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