Braille-publication exchange has specific goals

Guo Weimin (middle), deputy director of the State Council Information Office, visits the exhibition with guests.[Photo/people.com.cn]

For many thousands of patrons of the WTBBL in person, by mail or online, braille "opens the world of knowledge for people who are blind. It builds literacy and provides a key skill in higher education and employment," Wyman said at the braille-exhibit launch. "The delegation here today honors us with your presence and your great commitment to bringing an array of services to the visually impaired."

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".