The following has been sent to Braille Library members and is reproduced here for the interest of other braille readers:
Dear Braille Library member
In April 2021, RNIB’s Braille Library began offering readers braille books produced on-demand. We would like to thank those of you who have got in touch to let us know how much you are enjoying the new system. You like the smaller individual volumes which are more easily stored and handled. You appreciate receiving freshly embossed and more hygienic braille with fewer faded dots. You also like keeping the books for as long as you need before recycling rather than returning them.
Recent service disruption
Unfortunately, we’ve recently been experiencing some difficulties which are affecting the time it’s taking us to produce and dispatch book requests. Under normal circumstances, you can expect to receive your book around one week after requesting it. However, some of you may have noticed some delays in receiving your books. This falls far short of the service we want to offer. I am truly sorry for any service disruption or inconvenience you may have experienced. Please be assured everyone in our Reading Services team is working extremely hard to improve this as quickly as possible.
These delays stem from an issue with the new computer system we are using to place and prioritise book requests and report progress. We have identified the problem and are working to fix this as soon as possible. We’ve also been impacted by reduced staff numbers due to self-isolating requirements, like many other organisations and businesses at the moment. We are doing everything we can to get braille books out to you. We very much appreciate your patience and, in the meantime, if you have a book you need urgently then please contact our Reading Services team. Email [email protected] or telephone 0303 123 9999.
New development to help you identify volumes more easily
We’ve been listening to your feedback and are working to add the volume number to the first line of the title page which will be readable above the wrapper. This aims to help you identify volumes more easily without having to open every wrapper and should be available shortly.
Your feedback about how we can further develop the Braille Library is always very welcome. We will continue to make improvements and will keep you informed.
Opportunity to receive a free digital braille display
A number of our Braille Library members are now accessing their books using a digital braille display. The Orbit Readers from RNIB come pre-loaded with over 2,000 electronic braille books and have massive advantages in terms of accessibility and storage. If you don’t have a braille display and would like to register your interest in receiving one for free, please contact our Reading Services team. Email [email protected] or telephone 0303 123 9999.
Yours sincerely,
James Bartlett
RNIB Reading Services Manager