Braillekirja

Braillekirja is a term used to denote a book produced in braille, a tactile writing system used by blind and visually impaired readers. A braille book conveys the content of a printed work through raised dots that represent letters, numbers, punctuation, and basic formatting.

Braille was invented by Louis Braille in 1824. The system relies on a six-dot cell arranged in two columns of three. By combining these dots, it encodes letters, numbers, and symbols. Many languages use adapted braille codes, with ongoing standardization to improve literacy and readability.

Braille books are commonly produced by embossing on thick paper with braille presses, often in durable hardcover formats. In the digital era, braille can be shared as BRF (Braille Ready File) or BRL files and read on refreshable braille displays or braille-enabled e-readers, expanding access beyond physical copies.

Braillekirja plays a crucial role in accessibility, literacy, and education for blind and visually impaired readers. Libraries, schools, and national services maintain braille collections, providing access to literature, textbooks, and information. Production costs and the physical size of braille works remain challenges, but digital formats and international coding standards continue to improve availability and ease of use.