Biblioteca non vedenti

Hidden within the vibrant city of Milan, the Biblioteca non vedenti whispers a story of perseverance and access. Did you know that Italy’s first library for the blind was actually founded in Florence in the late 19th century? Queen Margherita of Savoy championed this early effort, but it struggled to gain traction. The Biblioteca non vedenti, or “Library for the Blind”, traces its true origins to 1928. The Italian Union of the Blind established the “Regina Margherita” National Library for the Blind in Genoa. This marked a pivotal moment, establishing a dedicated resource for visually impaired individuals across Italy. The library’s early years were marked by collaboration and growth. The Italian Union of the Blind entrusted the collection, transcription, loaning, cataloging, and preservation of Braille books to a dedicated entity, fostering a close partnership. This innovative approach proved successful, leading to the library’s relocation to Milan a few years later. However, the ravages of World War II forced another move. In 1943, to safeguard its precious collection, the Biblioteca non vedenti found temporary refuge in Monza’s Villa Reale, a magnificent palace that once served as a summer residence for the House of Savoy. This temporary relocation became permanent when the library’s Milanese home was tragically destroyed by bombs. The library remained at the Villa Reale until 1996, when it moved to a larger, more modern facility closer to Monza’s center. Building the library’s collection was a labor of love. Dedicated copyists meticulously transcribed books into Braille by hand using traditional tablets. Later, specialized typewriters and printing presses accelerated the process. The Biblioteca non vedenti became Italy’s primary production center for Braille publications. The arrival of computers revolutionized Braille book production, opening up new possibilities for access. The library embraced these advancements, incorporating electronic Braille embossers, high-speed automatic presses, and computer-based printing. Digital texts and large-print books further expanded the library’s offerings. The Biblioteca non vedenti, through its commitment to technological innovation, has transformed from a traditional lending library into a dynamic hub of accessible information. It stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring importance of providing access to knowledge for all.