National Braille Literacy Month

Next celebratedFriday, January 1, 2027

Let's raise awareness and promote inclusivity this National Braille Literacy Month by learning more about the importance of braille reading!

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEAll of January

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYDisability

INTRO

Introduction

Happy National Braille Literacy Month on January 1! This month-long celebration is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the use of braille, a tactile writing system that enables visually impaired individuals to read and write. It was first introduced in 1824 by Louis Braille, who was himself blind since childhood. Today, braille is an essential tool for many people with visual impairments, allowing them to access literature, textbooks, and other written materials. Let's celebrate this incredible invention and support the goal of achieving universal braille literacy for all.

TIMELINE

National Braille Literacy Month Timeline

Braille Invented

Louis Braille, a blind French man, invented the Braille system at the age of 15.

First Braille Book

The publication of the first book in Braille marked a significant moment in the accessibility of literature for visually impaired people.

Establishment of NGO

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB), an organization committed to promoting Braille literacy, was founded in the United States.

Braille Legal Rights

The United States Congress adopted a federal law definitively recognizing Braille as a literary system for blind and visually impaired individuals.

Creation of the BANA

The Braille Authority of North America (BANA) was established to develop and promote standardized Braille codes to facilitate literacy.

National Braille Literacy Month

The month of January was declared as National Braille Literacy Month in the United States, honouring the birth month of Louis Braille.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Braille Literacy Month

Learn Braille

Take the opportunity to learn the basics of Braille during National Braille Literacy Month. There are many resources available, including online courses and classes at local community centers.

SUPPORT

Support Braille organizations

Donate to or volunteer with organizations that promote Braille literacy, such as the National Federation of the Blind or American Foundation for the Blind. Your support can make a difference in the lives of those who are blind or visually impaired.

READ

Read books in Braille

Challenge yourself to read a book in Braille during this month. You can borrow one from a library or purchase one online. It will give you a better understanding of how important Braille is for those who are visually impaired.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Use social media or organize a presentation at your workplace or school to spread awareness about Braille and the importance of Braille literacy. Education is key in breaking down barriers for those who are visually impaired.

ATTEND

Attend a Braille event

Check for events in your community that celebrate Braille and attend one. It could be a Braille book reading, workshop, or social gathering. This is a great opportunity to meet others who are passionate about promoting Braille literacy.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Braille Literacy Month is Important

Preserves a unique form of communication

Braille is a unique form of communication that allows individuals who are unable to read print to access written materials. By promoting braille literacy, we are preserving this important form of communication and ensuring that it continues to be used and recognized in our society.

Promotes equal access to information

Braille is a crucial tool for those with visual impairments, allowing them to read and write just like their sighted peers. By promoting braille literacy, we are striving towards creating a more inclusive society where everyone has equal access to information.

Helps in language and cognitive development

Learning and using braille has been shown to improve language skills and cognitive development in both blind and sighted individuals. It also helps with developing fine motor skills and general literacy - making it an important skill to learn for all individuals, not just those with visual impairments.

Related holidays

MON

Jan 2026

Awareness

World Braille Day

Celebrate World Braille Day to recognize the impact of Louis Braille and help promote greater access to information for the visually impaired!

Blindness Awareness Month

Join us in raising awareness and supporting those affected by blindness this month. Together, we can make a difference!

Visually Impaired People Day

On Visually Impaired People Day, let's raise awareness and support for those with visual impairments - every person deserves equal access to opportunities.

Deafblind Awareness Week

Join us in spreading the word for Deafblind Awareness Week, as we strive to promote understanding, inclusivity, and respect in our communities.

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