The National Archives is exploring the possibility of launching Braille versions of its books on the history and heritage of the UAE. Majid Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the National Archives, sought cooperation with the Emirates Association for the Visually Impaired, EAVI, regarding this initiative during a reception for Adel Abdullah Al Zamar, President of EAVI.

The project began with printing three books in Braille, 'Zayed: From Challenge to Union', 'Khalifa: Journey to the Future', and 'Qasr Al Hosn 1793 – 1966'.

"The National Archives’ concern with the visually impaired is a manifestation of its belief in the importance of strengthening the role played by reading in shaping an individual's personality. The goal is to increase interaction with the community and help address the issues going on around them, in addition to cultivating knowledge and national culture," said Al Muhairi.

"The publications of the National Archives are capable of enriching the national culture of the reader and we are pleased to provide them now in Braille. We will also supplement EAVI’s library with our audio books. This is an expression of our confidence that the blind are also active members of the community and comes within the framework of the attention of our wise leadership to this segment of society," Al Muhairi said.

Al Zamar expressed his happiness at the care shown by National Archives towards the visually impaired and requested them to prepare more books in this way in order to reach this segment of the community, either through Braille or through voice recording. He praised the great national role played by National Archives in protecting the national memory for generations.

Source:WAM