Each October, World Blindness Awareness Month recognizes people who are blind or have low vision while promoting eye health, accessibility and inclusion.
An estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide have vision impairment. More than 36,000 Palm Beach County residents live with visual impairment, according to 2022 census tract figures. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, PolicyMap 2026.)
Key Observances in October
- World Sight Day: Focuses on eye care and vision impairment prevention.
- National Braille Week: Highlights Braille as a literacy and communication tool.
- White Cane Safety Day (October 15): Recognizes the white cane as a symbol of independence, mobility and pedestrian rights.
- Blind Equality Achievement Month: Builds awareness and outreach.
This Blindness Awareness Month, the Library’s Talking Books division will host several events to raise awareness and celebrate accessibility and independence.
Contact Talking Books at 561-649-5486 to preregister for these events.
Blindness Awareness Month Online
Wed, Oct 07, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Learn about White Cane Safety Day and celebrate the independence of people who are blind or visually impaired. Discover how the white cane promotes safety, accessibility and independence. For more information click here.
Accessible Game Day
Library Annex
Fri, Oct 09, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Discover new Braille games, including Backgammon, Scrabble, Uno, Farkle, Rack-O, Chess, Checkers and Monopoly.
Play a favorite or learn something new during a fun game day at the Library Annex. To preregister click here.
