Webinar: Build a Better Book Virtual Conference 2021

Build a Better Book was pleased to host a virtual conference on September 13-14, 2021. The conference brought togetherÌýnew and current BBB partners from across the U.S. and the world, for sharing ideas and learning best practices around accessibility and universal design. Participants learned aboutÌýtools and models for working in partnership with community members who are blind or visually impaired, teaching STEM and maker skills, and building empathy.Ìý

Explore the videos on this page for inspirationÌýand to get started with aÌýBuild a Better Book project at your library, school, or makerspace!

Day 1: OverviewÌýfor new BBB Partners

  • Overview ofÌýthe Build a Better Book ProjectÌý- Stacey Forsyth & Kat Penzkover - Build a Better Book
  • Understanding Visual ImpairmentsÌý- Leslie Edmonds - Sonoma County Office of Education
  • Creating Tactile MaterialsÌý- Ann Cunningham - Tactile artist, Colorado Center for the Blind
  • Braille BasicsÌý- Lucia Hasty - Rocky Mountain Braille Associates

Day 2: Sessions for new and current partners

  • Tailoring BBB to Fit Your OrganizationÌý- Reyce Krause, Gila Stein, Gillian Cofnas - Ma'ayanot Yeshiva High School
  • BBB and Student Teachers in the ClassroomÌý- John Somers - University of Indianapolis
  • Virtual andÌýHybrid ProgramsÌý- Amanda Cornwell - Central Michigan University
  • Beyond Books - Board games &ÌýScience contentÌý- April Chamberlain and Rachel Brockman - Trussville City Schools
  • NaviLens: Navigation and Sound enhancementsÌý- Tim Fahlberg - Wisconsin School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
  • BBB in Multilingual ClassroomsÌý- Ben Walsh - University of Colorado
  • Finding Funding: Donor's ChooseÌý- Mindy Brodecki - Springfield Public Schools
  • Finding Funding: Grant-writing and ResourcesÌý- Analiza Perez-Gomez - Laredo Public Library & Ian Matty - Mountain Lakes Public Library​
  • From Prototype to ProductÌý-ÌýIan Matty - Mountain Lakes Public Library & Janet Hollingsworth - The Possible Project

Day 1 Session Videorecordings:Ìý

Build a Better Book Overview

Understanding Visual Impairments

Creating Tactile Materials

Braille Basics

Tailoring BBB to Your Organization

BBB and Student Teachers

Virtual and Hybrid Programs

Build a Better Board Game

BBB in the Land of Science

Introduction to the NaviLens App

BBB in Multilingual Classrooms

Finding Funding - Donor's Choose

Finding Funding - Grants

From Prototype to Final Product