We are committed to enabling learners of any age, ability, and zip code. Approximately 20% of the student population in the United States is estimated to have a learning difference. We support schools in every state in America depend on us, serving students in all sorts of school: public, charter, private, religious or at home.
Millions of students across the United States struggle to read and learn. They may experience challenges due to a learning difference, like dyslexia. Alternatively, they may encounter barriers to accessing their textbooks due to a visual impairment or physical disability. It is our goal to eliminate these barriers to education and literacy through accessible ebooks and materials.
Benetech’s Bookshare initiative operates at scale, serving schools and school districts across all 50 states, to provide students with reading barriers the books that they need to learn in accessible formats. Our Bookshare service has millions of books in braille, audio, and other customizable formats. Students use Bookshare to access grade level content and learn in ways that work for them. Thanks to funding from the US Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs, Bookshare is a free service for all schools and students.
Visit BookshareDigital content is on the rise in classrooms across the country, but unfortunately, not all digital content is accessible to students with disabilities and learning differences. Benetech’s Global Certified Accessible (GCA) program is changing the digital publishing landscape to help publishers create accessible educational materials that are born accessible for all students. Teachers, administrators, and procurement specialists can trust that content with the GCA seal is certified accessible.
Learn MoreTo ensure that all children have the chance to reach their potential, it is imperative that they receive tools to read and learn. Reading unlocks the ability to achieve success in school and in life. Learn more about our public-private partnership to reduce barriers to obtaining vital reading and literacy supports.
Take ActionBookshare has made an enormous difference for me and has changed how I feel about reading. Prior to getting started with Bookshare in fifth grade, I think I had only ever read three books (with help) in my entire school experience; within the first year after enrolling in Bookshare, I’d read over 100 books, including the Harry Potter series!
Ella Johnson, Student at Irondale High School in Minnesota
One student went from reading only graphic novels to reading chapter books from Bookshare that were over 500 pages long. Her reading scores skyrocketed and she ended up being the valedictorian of her graduating class.
Ben Griese, Special Education Teacher, New Stuyahok, Alaska
Jose is ten times happier! He is a different child and learner. He understands the stories, and his listening skills are acute. Bookshare gives Jose reading independence. He has meaningful conversations with friends and knows what he likes to read. Digital accessible books are an educational resource that all children with learning disabilities should have.
Lola Alvarez, Parent, Plano, TX
I have dyslexia and Bookshare has had a profound impact on my life. Prior to using Bookshare, I was a disengaged and struggling student. Using Bookshare, I could independently understand the information in school readings, participate in classes, and demonstrate my knowledge.
Brian M., Cornell University graduate and Microsoft employee
Bookshare is an essential component of my academic progress. If you ask any blind student what their best resource for educational material is, they will unequivocally agree it is Bookshare.
Shmuel B., blind student
