About
Mission & History
Our purpose, our story since 1858, and the people we serve every day.
Mission & History
Empowering people who are blind or low vision since 1858
The American Printing House for the Blind exists to create products, services, and experiences that put the world within reach of people who are blind or low vision.
Founded in Louisville, Kentucky in 1858, APH is the oldest organization of its kind in the United States and the official supplier of educational materials for students who are blind or low vision under the federal Act to Promote the Education of the Blind.
More than 165 years later, that founding promise still drives everything we make, from braille books and tactile tools to the Monarch, our flagship multiline braille and tactile-graphics device.
APH at a glance
- Founded in Louisville, Kentucky
- 1858
- Years serving the community
- 165+
- Nonprofit organization
- 501(c)(3)
- Named the official federal supplier
- 1879
Be part of the next chapter
Explore the catalog built on our mission, or help fund it for the next generation.