by Doreen Martel

Created on: August 09, 2010

The National Braille Press is a Boston, MA based braille printing company. They are most well known for their recent accomplishment of producing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows book in Braille for release on the same date the printed version was released (July 20, 2007). While this may sound like a given, in fact, this is a major accomplishment. Putting this into perspective, the Braille version of the book is 1100 pages and weighs twelve pounds. The history of the National Braille Press is quite impressive as well. Here are some facts about the National Braille Press.

The Founder

Francis B. Ierardi an Italian immigrant founded the National Braille Press in 1927.  His idea was that those like himself who were blind wanted to be able to read books.  The first item that was every published at the National Braille Press was a newsletter which was intended to be distributed in Massachusetts only. However, Mr. Ierardi quickly discovered that there was a significant market for this type of publication. Mr. Ierardi remained actively involved in the everyday operations of the National Braille Press until his retirement in 1965, after which time he still provided consultation services to the press.  He passed away in 1967.

Growth of the National Braille Press

In 1927, the Perkins School for the blind provided a gift of $1,000 to keep the National Braille Press in business through the end of the year.  According to the history on National Braille Press website, "Ierardi soon discovered that keeping the press alive was as formidable a task as giving it life. From 1927 to 1946, National Braille Press occupied six different buildings - leaning on the generosity of such Boston institutions as the Women's Educational and Industrial Union and the Paulist Fathers - before settling at its present location at 88 St. Stephen Street."

National Braille Press Today

Today, the National Braille Press continues the proud tradition as one of the oldest operating braille printing operations. Many of the functions of assembling books are still carried out by volunteers.  Nearly one third of National Braille Press staff members are blind or otherwise visually impaired.  The National Braille Press is primarily interested in maintaining literacy standards for those who are blind.  Their mission is to provide books in braille at a cost comparable to the cost of a printed book. This often results in books being sold at a loss based on the cost of materials, assembly and operations.

Financial Conditions

Only 6% of the revenue of National Braille Press comes from sale of publications. This non profit group has an all volunteer board that is committed to fund-raising, encouraging volunteers to assist in assembly projects and seeking sponsorships from foundations and corporations.  Nearly 41% of the income of National Braille Press is obtained from donations and sponsorships.

Summary

The availability of books in Braille opens up an entire world for the blind population. It encourages those who are blind to be more self sufficient, it opens doors to educational and employment opportunities and more.  The National Braille Press remains committed to carrying out their long history of making books available in braille print.  Their motto "Promoting literacy through excellence in braille printing & publishing" is evident from the testimonials of their readers.

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