DES MOINES, Iowa — In honor of the inventor of Braille code, families gathered to learn more about Braille and the 2025 Braille Challenge during World Braille Day.

In 1824, Louis Braille changed the world with the invention of Braille code. Comprised of a series of one to six raised dots arranged in a six-position cell, the code consists of 63 characters which enable visually impaired individuals to read.

“Braille was invented over 200 years ago and when he invented Braille, it went worldwide. Today that it’s being used, in such a connection to literacy, and when you read Braille, it connects to literacy for those that are unable to read standard print. It’s very important,” said Denise Bean, a librarian at The Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled.

On Saturday, Families gathered to celebrate and learn more about Braille at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Disabled. Several Braille readers shared their stories and a video on how print/Braille books are made was shown. Children were even able to do hands on learning and were given a recipe for a Graham Crackers M&M Braille snack.

Denise looks forwards to these events because it helps educate people and it helps connect people with opportunities.

“It gives us an opportunity to talk to them about connecting to Braille and connecting to all the resources that we have to offer them,” Bean said. “We even have it here where you can become Braille certified through our agency.”

Karen Cunningham, the instructional materials center librarian, shared details about the upcoming 25th Anniversary Braille Challenge. Held on February 22, the Braille Challenge is the only academic competition of its kind which tests children in grades 1 – 12 on fundamental Braille skills.

The categories in the challenge are reading comprehension, spelling, speed, accuracy, proofreading, and charts and graphs. The challenge motivates students to practice and hone Braille skills, which are often essential to academic and employment success.

“Braille equals literacy, and when you read Braille, it’s so important for your future,” said Bean. “For those that need Braille, for future literacy, knowing Braille as you grow up is very important.”