Two of the major rulesets that govern the transcription of braille include the "literary" and "textbook" codes. The literary braille code set forth in English Braille, American Edition defines braille, spells out rules for the use of contractions and composition signs, and provides directions for simple format work used in the transcription of general materials.
The textbook code laid out in Braille Formats: Print to Braille Production applies to the transcription of more complex materials--particularly textbooks and other instructional materials. Both braille codes have evolved separately, allowing needless differences to be codified into each document. BANA has charged the Literary and Formats Committees to bring these two codes into conformity. Both technical committees are in the midst of working on these major revisions.
The literary code is available for purchase in hardcopy print and braille from the American Printing House for the Blind, or it can be downloaded from the links below.
See File Formats Found on the BANA Website for help.
English Braille, American Edition, 1994; Revised 2002.
APH; Braille: 5‑35932‑00; Print: 7‑35932‑00; Cost: $20.00
English Braille, American Edition (PDF version)
English Braille, American Edition (BRF version)
Copyright by the Braille Authority of North America.
These materials may be duplicated but not altered.
Last updated on May 1, 2009