Reading

Make a Noise in Libraries fortnight: 6-19 July 2009

Summary: Bringing public libraries and blind and partially sighted people together.

• Free resources for libraries
• Help with publicity
• Launch of new 'Reading Sight' website
• About MANIL
• Contact us

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Our theme for MANIL 2009 is Reading by touch to coincide with the bicentenary of the birth of Louis Braille, the Frenchman who invented the six-dot reading and writing system used by blind people across the world.

Libraries across the country are organising reading activities, launching new services and highlighting what they have to offer to blind and partially sighted people.

MANIL is also an opportunity for people with sight loss to ask their local library what is available - not only will you be showing a need for accessible library services but you might also be pleasantly surprised about what is on offer.

Free resources for libraries

In keeping with our theme, why not take your inspiration from the Bicentenary of the birth of Louis Braille? We can provide Louis Braille bookmarks, posters and a braille activity sheet to help you put together a themed display in your library during MANIL Fortnight.

In addition, as in previous years, we also have MANIL bookmarks available - free of charge while stocks last.

How to get hold of these resources:

• MANIL 2009 bookmarks - email una.regan@rnib.org.uk
• Download our MANIL 2009 poster (PDF 310kb)
• Louis Braille Bicentenary bookmarks and posters - email una.regan@rnib.org.uk
• Download our braille activity sheet (PDF 275kb) - decipher the braille dots to reveal the message (suitable for children and adults). Can be used on its own or as part of a larger display on the life of Louis Braille and the code he invented. LINK

Help with PDFs

Help with publicity

• We will publicise all MANIL events on this website so please let us know what you are doing. Send us the title of your event, the date, time and venue, a brief summary of what will be happening and contact details. Email megan.gilks@rnib.org.uk
• Contact your local media - download our press release template (Word 220kb).

Launch of new 'Reading Sight' website

During MANIL Fortnight, we will be launching a new free website for library staff on 14 July at the CILIP Umbrella conference for library and information professionals in Hertfordshire.

Reading Sight offers a wealth of information and practical resources on all aspects of providing an accessible library service for blind and partially sighted people. Topics covered include reading materials, reading aids and assistive technologies, supporting readers, understanding sight loss, developing and marketing library services and staff training. Reading Sight is an initiative led by RNIB and the Society of Chief Librarians, supported by Share the Vision and The Ulverscroft Foundation.

Log onto Reading Sight after 14 July to find out how it can help you and your library. www.readingsight.org.uk

About MANIL

This will be the eighth year that we have organised Make a Noise in Libraries (MANIL) Fortnight. This annual campaign aims to bring public libraries and blind and partially sighted people together to improve access to books and information.

Make a Noise in Libraries Fortnight is run by the RNIB National Library Service, which provides a wide range of books and information for children and adults in a choice of formats including braille, giant print (24 point type) and unabridged audio (DAISY Talking Books).

Contact us

To find out more about MANIL 2009, please contact Megan Gilks on 0161 355 2080 or email megan.gilks@rnib.org.uk

Content author: megan.gilks@rnib.org.uk

Last updated: 15/06/2009 10:29