January is celebrated as Braille Literacy Month in Oklahoma and the United States.

“Braille is composed of raised dots designed to be read with the fingertips,” Rita Echelle, Oklahoma School for the Blind superintendent, explained. “The basic unit is an arrangement of six dots, two across and three down. It looks like the number six domino. Each dot or combination of dots represent letters of the print alphabet.”

SBVI’s comprehensive programs provide a range of braille training and related critical training for students transitioning to life after high school, adults seeking employment and those age 55 and older who need assistance adapting to visual disabilities.

“Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired employees recognize the importance of braille and advocate daily to support braille literacy,” Tracy Brigham, Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired administrator, said.

The Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped provides free services to Oklahomans who are blind or visually impaired and those with reading disabilities or physical limitations that make it difficult to use standard print.

The Library also provides textbooks and other instructional materials in braille and other formats, and loans specialized equipment for students in kindergarten through grade 12.

“Braille literacy IS literacy for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, and we know that literacy is vital to independence and successful academic and employment outcomes,” Brigham said.