(Yicai Global) Dec. 5 -- On International Day of Persons With Disabilities, which falls on Dec. 3 each year, Shanghai opened its first disability-friendly bookstore, focusing on the works of blind writers.

With the aid of computers and handsets, the number of non-sighted authors has increased significantly, said Jiang Jianjun, deputy director of the China Association of the Blind’s literature and art committee. There are nearly 300 committee members publishing many excellent literary works every year, he added.

The facade of Xinhua Bookstore Backlit 226 at 226 Nanchang Road is white with circular holes, resembling a big braille book.

Unlike typical bookstores, Backlit 226 has tactile, olfactory, and auditory elements, making it especially friendly for people with disabilities. A tactile pavement runs from outside the shop through the book display and shelving section to the rest area.

The bookstore has more than 300 braille books, books to smell, and touchable works by disabled and blind writers.

Cultural and creative items, including paper cut works, bamboo weaving, and paintings made by people with disabilities, are on display in the store. Practical courses will be held in the future.

Backlit 226’s literary selection also includes some inspirational books for general readers.

Store Manager Han Ying’s guide dog rests in an area set aside for such dogs.

Editors: Shi Yi, Martin Kadiev