Braille Transcriber Apprentice Program (BTAP)

A major concern of NPBN members is the lack of a support system or the funds needed for offenders leaving prison after serving a long term to get a transcription operation started. Too frequently, highly qualified, motivated, experienced transcribers in prison braille programs across the country do not continue transcribing braille following their release. The NPBN works to rectify this through BTAP recognizing that Braille transcription is an ideal “cottage industry” and, historically, most transcribers have produced braille in their own homes or offices.

Qualified applicants for BTAP are approved by National Prison Braille staff. If accepted, participants learn additional skills such as small business management to help them get work as braille transcribers after their release. APH supplies the apprentices with the tools and machinery they need to start their own freelance transcription business.

To qualify for this reentry assistance program, applicants must have and understand the following:

• Participated in a prison braille program that is affiliated with the National Prison Braille Network.
• Earned Literary Braille Certification through the NLS (National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress).
• Earned at least one advanced certification: Textbook Formatting, UEB Technical, Literary Braille Proofreading, Nemeth Braille, Nemeth Braille Proofreading, Music, or Music Associate.
• Gained tactile graphics design and production experience.
• A commitment to pursuing a career in braille transcription.
• Certain offenses may disqualify an applicant from participation in BTAP.

APH partners with hundreds of professionals and organizations around the world to develop products, programs, and services that make life better for individuals with vision loss. Key to the success of BTAP is our reach to local, state, and national entities for both their expertise and their support.

On the national level, APH and the National Prison Braille Network has been successful in getting the Department of Justice to add “prison braille programs” to the list of programs eligible to receive federal funding through Second Chance Act grants, and to award grant money to two prison braille programs 2008 funding cycle, totaling $1.5 million.

Additionally, APH is a member of the Greater Louisville Reentry Coalition and has presented information on prison braille programs to this group. Member agencies have offered their services to help with reentry initiatives in the Louisville area.