A visitor "reads" the introduction of the activity in braille. [Photo/people.com]

Braille publication is undergoing profound changes thanks to technology and improving public services. More blind people are enthusiastic about sharing cultural achievements; braille and reading have enhanced their literacy so they are able to receive vocational education, higher education and advanced skills training to find jobs or start their own businesses.

The free exhibit contains a wide range of braille publications in China in the digital age and is open to the public from Sept 22-26; it coincides with the upcoming visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Seattle, Everett, Tacoma and Redmond, Washington, this week.

Attendees also can learn about famous blind people in America and China; explore braille creation of cultural materials; and interact with organizations for the blind and groups that serve the blind, said WTBBL Manager Danielle Miller.

The WTBBL display is part of a series of exhibitions that allow attendees to explore through touch, sound and sight. Miller said the exhibit demonstrates “both the importance of braille worldwide and developing partnerships between China and the US regarding services for people who are blind or visually impaired”.

“Over the years, by providing blind-people-oriented, need-based and customized services, braille publication organizations in China and the US have made a great contribution to the growth and success of numerous blind people, and each developed its own unique advantages and service features,” China Braille President Zhang Wei said.

“We will conduct exchanges with peers in the US on topics such as braille publication, audio books and service of braille libraries, and discuss digitalized services for the blind, promotion of reading, volunteer services as well as other relevant subjects with the blind communities and organizations of the blind,” Zhang added.

WTBBL has been recognized nationally as a leader for library services for the blind, said Wyman. “It’s equally clear that from this amazing exhibit and the braille you have donated to the library, that China Braille Press and the Braille Library of China are also great leaders and innovators. What a wonderful partnership,” he added. “Organizations are able to build relationships around shared interests that have nothing to do with geopolitics.”

The exhibit is open from 8:30 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Friday, with hours extended until 9 pm on Wednesday. Saturday’s exhibit hours are 10 am to 3 pm.