Volunteer to open up books for community

Leighton Buzzard-based Access2Books, which provides children’s books in braille and giant print for adults, children and families to share, is looking for help for its small and friendly team.

Books from Access2Books are designed so that both braille and large print readers are able to enjoy reading, without obscuring the text or illustrations.

A spokeswoman for the group said: “Children and adults reading together is a huge contributing factor to children learning of language, confidence and social interaction in the early years, and Access2Books’ publications make it possible for families with visually impaired members to enjoy this activity just like anyone else.”

The community interest project now needs help in the form of a book producer and a social media and communications volunteer.

To help produce the books, computer literacy with a good standard of English and high level of attention to detail is needed. Access2Books staff will show the volunteer how to use equipment such as a braille embosser, electric guillotine and laminator.

The volunteer will then be responsible for creating print and braille files, printing, embossing the braille, assembling book and cover, arranging courier/post, and dealing with relevant paperwork.

The social media and communications volunteer also needs to be computer literate and have experience - in unpaid or paid roles - of using platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. The idea is that you’ll help build up the organisation’s current network of followers and contributors, use social media to source those who need the books, along with writing and distributing newsletters.

Contact the Volunteer Centre Central Bedfordshire on 01525 850559, [email protected] to find out about these or other volunteering opportunities or go online at www.do-it.org