Volunteer Braillists & Tapists, Inc.

About Us

Volunteer Braillists and Tapists, Inc. is a Madison-based nonprofit Wisconsin corporation formed in 1971 for the purpose of transcribing reading materials into braille and tape. We also have a free braille lending library.

The group was founded by four Madison women,who were helping a vision teacher at Lakewood Elementary School. They earned their braille certification and attracted others who formed the core organization. There are now about 30 certified braille transcribers, 5 taping volunteers, 2 certified proofreaders, 1 librarian (with an assistant) and many others who lend a hand now and then.

The philosophy of the organization is based on our belief that all people have the right to the opportunity to read. Requests for braille transcriptions and tapes of all kinds are accepted, the only limitations being time and the availability of braillists and tapists. When priorities must be set, educational materials take precedence, followed by job-related requests, instruction manuals, and leisure reading.

Over the years, the scope of our organization has expanded across the country and into Canada while continuing to serve Madison and Dane County. The expansion has been possible due to the recruiting and training of several volunteer braillists and tapists each year.

Day to day activities are managed by the Office Coordinator under the direction of the Board of Directors. The Advisory Committee makes recommendations regarding fund raising and financial management. To meet expenses, VBTI conducts an annual fund-raising drive. No funding is received from local, state or federal governments. All funds come from individual or corporate contributions and foundation grants.