Reading Mainstream Library Books on Braille Devices

Abstract illustration of an elderly person with glasses holding a large scroll, surrounded by symbols of technology and security, such as a computer screen and a locked padlock

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Reading Mainstream Library Books on Braille Devices

Abstract illustration of an elderly person with glasses holding a large scroll, surrounded by symbols of technology and security, such as a computer screen and a locked padlockThe number of born-accessible ebooks is growing fast, with increasing numbers available through retail channels and at public libraries. For rights owners, lending and selling ebooks often requires strong protection against copyright infringement. Such protection technologies are called DRM (Digital Rights Management) systems and historically have presented barriers to accessibility. Over the last ten years, the European Digital Reading Lab (EDRLab) have made substantial efforts to ensure that such protection does not limit readers’ rights to read conveniently on the device of their choice. Readium LCP is a solution that supports various publication formats like EPUB and PDF, and caters to different business models, including library lending and subscriptions. Designed to protect publishers while being user-friendly, LCP does not require third-party accounts, facilitates limited sharing among close friends, and complies with the EU Accessibility Directive. It is now widely recognized and adopted to offer more than 12 million ebooks in 84 countries.

EDRLab provide free support for companies implementing LCP DRM in specialised reading devices, such as DAISY format players and Braille displays. This initiative helps manufacturers integrate the necessary technology and empowers them to create devices that are fully compatible with born-accessible ebooks. By providing this support, EDRLab aims to enhance accessibility and ensure that people with print disabilities can enjoy a broader range of digital reading materials without barriers. This collaborative effort is crucial for fostering an inclusive digital reading environment.

A first implementation happened earlier this year under the impulse of CECIAA and Selvas HealthCare (Hims). They now provide Braille notebooks and DAISY format players able to read LCP-protected EPUB publications, facilitating direct access to digital libraries without intermediate transfer and offering users a seamless, integrated solution for digital reading. Currently, BrailleSense 6, BrailleSense 6 mini, Braille eMotion, SensePlayer ET, and SensePlayer EZ support LCP-protected EPUB ebooks. After a system update, this functionality will be available for devices manufactured before 2025.

This initiative reflects the combined long-term work of various organisations to initiate and bring a significant shift to the available reading path for people who cannot access print reading. It notably comes at a moment when more and more ebook lenders and vendors display information about accessibility features included in EPUBs.

While further work is needed to improve the reading experience, and to facilitate wider adoption of this technology, this development marks a notable advancement in accessibility for those who cannot access print reading and a significant step towards creating an inclusive digital reading environment.

Thanks to Gautier Chomel at EDRLab for contributing this article.