Iowa Library for the Blind Celebrates 50 Years

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Shoshana Hebshi

Nov. 1, 2010 515.281.1338

Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped—a nationally recognized service for Iowans who cannot access standard printed materials due to a disability— is 50 years old this year and is celebrating with an open house and awards ceremony on Friday Nov. 1 from 1 to 5 p.m.

The Library, a division of the Iowa Department for the Blind, mails thousands of Braille, large print and audio books and magazines to borrowers across the state each day. It has been touted as a leader among similar libraries for its award-winning service and its massive Braille collection. The Library has also been recognized as a leader in audio and Braille book production, providing its thousands of patrons with the opportunity to access information otherwise unavailable to them.  

"Reading is for everyone," said Library Director Tracey Morsek, "and for readers who are unable to see standard print or unable to hold a book, our library provides a way for them to stay in touch with current events, the most recent bestseller, or favorite authors. We serve readers of all ages with the same types of books they would find in their local public library—except that our books are not in standard print. And the service is free to the user; we even loan players for the audio books, and all of our materials may be mailed directly to our borrowers’ homes at no charge."

During the Open House, the public is invited to browse interactive booths and try out Library equipment. Among the activities, there will be demonstrations on:

• Creating Braille books
• Recording digital audio books and magazines
• Using our online catalog
• Downloading digital books from the Internet
• Touring the historic IDB building
• Getting involved as a volunteer or supporter
• Contributing to our oral history project 

"The Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped is a state service that all Iowans can be proud of," said Gov. Chet Culver. "We believe in access to information as the foundation of democracy, and applaud the Library's work providing this access to Iowans who cannot read standard print.　

For more information about this open house, the Library or the Iowa Department for the Blind and its services for blind and visually impaired Iowans, contact Shoshana Hebshi, communications specialist, at (515) 281-1338 or shoshana.hebshi@blind.state.ia.us

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At 2 p.m., Morsek will present a D.E.A.R. Reader Award to a special patron who has given back to the Library over the years. The Library will receive a special certificate honoring the anniversary from the Governor’s Office and Iowa Poet Laureate Mary Swander will play her banjo. There will be free cake and refreshments.Shoshana.Hebshi@blind.state.ia.usThroughout the last 50 years, the Library has been a leader in this field of accessible information for all. I wish them as much success over the next 50 years."

Iowa Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped turns 50

OPEN HOUSE AND AWARD CEREMONY

TO COMMEMORATE ANNIVERSARY