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HiVis Fortnight

HiVis Fortnight is celebrated in public libraries across the UK in the first two weeks of June. Led by Share the Vision and supported by RNIB, HiVis Fortnight shines a spotlight on accessible reading and library services for people with vision impairment (VI).

People with VI and print disabilities, such as dyslexia, have enjoyed books in accessible formats for over 200 years. While some libraries specialise in collections specifically for readers who need alternative formats, many mainstream libraries also offer large print, audiobooks and eBooks – available both on the shelves and through online catalogues.

RNIB was founded with a mission to improve access to reading for blind and partially sighted people and we continue to support the development of inclusive library services. Many libraries provide digital lending options, accessible reading devices and adapted reading spaces where readers can sit comfortably to enjoy a book.

Reading is about enjoying stories, not just the books they’re found in. As part of HiVis Fortnight, many libraries will have activities for children where they can explore accessible reading and engage with stories in deep and meaningful ways. Get in touch with your local library to find out what’s on near you.

Interesting facts about HiVis Fortnight

  • HiVis Fortnight was originally called “Make a Noise in Libraries” and was launched in libraries in 2002.
  • Author Stephen Fry said this about audiobooks and eBooks: “One technology doesn’t replace another, it complements. Books are no more threatened by Kindle than stairs by elevators.”
  • The world’s longest audiobook ever recorded was 2,441 hours long. If you listened to the book for eight hours per day, it would take you 10 months of listening to finish it!

Family activities

There are many ways to get into the spirit of HiVis Fortnight and we’ve suggested a few ways in which you can get creative and crafty below.

‘Cell Buster’ activity

Help children explore braille in a fun and interactive way using the ‘This is braille – alphabet card’. Start by encouraging them to write their name in braille.

If you have a larger group, divide them into teams of six and ask each person to stand up or raise their hand to represent one of the six dots in the braille cell.

For smaller groups, or if you want to add a creative twist, use arts and crafts materials to build braille cells. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • use an egg box for a cell and scrunched up paper for the dots
  • stick dots onto card using sticky tack or adhesive gems
  • roll little balls of playdough and place them on a sheet to form braille characters.

If you’re interested in braille, explore our Lots of Dots resource for additional activities and information.

Make a story bucket

Story buckets, boxes and bags are a brilliant way to bring a book to life, especially for children and young people with vision impairment or who have additional support needs. These sensory story kits use everyday items to help children explore characters and settings in a fun, meaningful way.

Here’s how to create your own story bucket using ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’:

What you’ll need

  • A copy of ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’
  • A doll with golden hair
  • Three teddy bears of different sizes
  • Three spoons, cups and bowls – small, medium and large
  • Some porridge oats
  • Three chairs and three beds in different sizes

You may need to make some items using cushions, blankets or bedding for example. If you have one, a doll’s house and furniture would work well, or take the story on a walk, using different parts of your home.

How to use the story bucket

  1. Read the story aloud, one sentence at a time.
  2. Act out each part of the story as you go using the items in the story bucket.
  3. Encourage your child to ask questions and talk about what’s happening in the story.
  4. Let your child play with the items from the story bag and create their own version of the story world.

Each story might prompt different learning opportunities. For ‘Goldilocks’, this could be:

  • The concept of relative size (big, bigger, biggest)
  • Loud and quiet sounds and voices
  • Different spaces and environments
  • A variety of textures and sensations (soft/hard, hot/cold, wet/dry)

For more ideas and inspiration, check out:

Join your local library

Libraries are full of imagination, discovery and adventure. Whether your child loves dinosaurs, fairy tales, facts or funny stories, joining the library opens the door to a world of accessible reading.

Libraries often have fun events like story time, crafts and games – and most offer books in large print, braille, audio and digital formats.

Here are a couple of things to consider if you’d like to join your local library:

  • Ask an adult: A parent or guardian can help if you’re under 18. They can take you to the library and help with signing up. If you’re working on independence skills, this is a great opportunity to practise your mobility and advocate for yourself.
  • Bring some ID: Your adult might need to bring a form of ID, like a driver’s licence, and something that shows where you live, such as a bill or bank statement.
  • Fill out a form: This can often be done in person or online. Your library staff will guide you through the process.
  • Get your library card: This is your key to borrowing books and joining in activities.
  • Start exploring: Check out the books on offer, join a story time or ask a librarian about accessible resources.

Reading and libraries websites for children

There are many websites which explore HiVis Fortnight in a child-friendly way. Here are some links to get you started:

Get involved and share your story

We’d love to hear your family’s favourite traditions and how you celebrate.

You can post your celebrations on our Parents and Carers Facebook Group.

If you would like to see a particular celebration included here, please email us: [email protected].

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