Considering the importance of reading in the educational process of individuals, this article analyzes access to Braille books, their material conditions, circulation and the practices and uses of Braille books available in a library to individuals with visual deficiency. An empirical study was undertaken in a public library using primary sources, such as observation and interview, conducted in two periods, in the years 2002 and 2007, in order to compare the available collections, the demand of readers and the material conditions of Braille books in these periods. The analysis was undertaken with the theoretical perspective of Roger Chartier. The study indicated to what degree individuals with visual deficiencies, in particular a blind person, still has his or her rights to reading subjugated to the absence of public policies and consequently a limited supply of books, difficult access to books and the precarious conditions of those available.
Braille book; Blindness; Reading