The Indianapolis Public Library Expands Collection of Braille Books
The Indianapolis Public Library is expanding its collection of Braille books in February 2024.
This initiative will contribute to The Library’s strategic goal of fostering an inclusive collection by supporting patrons who are blind, patrons who have low vision, and patrons who want to practice reading Braille.
The Braille collection will include 35 new titles for children. These titles will be available for in-person browsing at seven branch locations that were selected by looking at circulation and demand of our Braille titles.
Braille titles will be available for in-person browsing at Central Library, College Avenue, Fort Ben, Franklin Road, Glendale, Lawrence, and Nora. Patrons can place holds on these titles online and have items sent to any Indianapolis Public Library location for pickup.
Janet Spaulding, the children’s selector with The Library’s Acquisitions & Collection Development department, says the decision to expand this collection was due to discussions with staff and patrons.
“The Library strives to be a space that is accessible and welcoming,” said Spaulding. “I am always looking for ways that our collection can help meet The Library’s goals and our community’s needs. In talking with staff and patrons, this emerged as another way to provide opportunities for some Library users to experience The Library and to support them in the joy of reading with their children.”
Tabea Belding, a patron who frequents our College Avenue Branch, says she is grateful that The Library is increasing access to Braille books.
“My husband and I are blind, and our two young children are sighted, but we are only one family among so many households that will benefit,” said Belding. “This will be a game changer for us. We are excited to meaningfully engage with our children’s literacy, interests, and growth with so many more books becoming available. This investment sends the message that blind folks are welcome and valued, that inclusion is important, and that our local libraries are becoming increasingly welcoming spaces for blind individuals and families to gather, access resources, and engage with the community.”