As Passover approaches, JBI Library is once again making it possible for people who are blind, have low vision or have other print disabilities to fully participate in the holiday. This year’s Passover offerings include free accessible Haggadot in multiple formats, the expansion of braille options and new customization features for large print materials.
Passover centers on shared storytelling, community and ritual. For many people with print disabilities (which include physical disabilities such as MS and Parkinson’s and reading disabilities such as dyslexia), barriers to accessing the Haggadah can disrupt that sense of connection at the seder table. JBI Library’s Passover resources are designed to remove those barriers and support meaningful participation for readers of all ages.
“The seder is built around reading together, asking questions and feeling part of something larger than ourselves,” said Michelle Shapiro Abraham, executive director of JBI Library. “When someone cannot see or comfortably hold a Haggadah, that experience can quickly become isolating. Our goal is to ensure that everyone at the table has equal access to the text and traditions so they can participate fully and with dignity.”
JBI has also expanded its accessible Haggadah collection. The family-friendly Gateways Haggadah by Rebecca Redner is now available in braille, in addition to the original large print. The Gateways Haggadah is widely recognized for its inclusive approach, welcoming families with children of all abilities and disabilities. JBI’s accessible Haggadot are available in large print, braille and audio formats, with multiple editions representing a range of traditions, languages and communal needs.
This year JBI is also offering expanded flexibility in JBI’s large print offerings. JBI’s standard large print format uses Tahoma font, with Hebrew text in size 30 and English text in size 22. Upon request, the text can be produced in even larger sizes or in reverse contrast, with white text on a black background, an option that can make reading easier and more comfortable for some individuals.
All Haggadot are provided free of charge to individuals and should be requested by March 18, 2026 to ensure delivery in time for Passover. For organizations planning to host communal seders and seeking larger quantities of accessible materials, requests should be submitted by March 4, 2026. To request a free accessible Haggadah or to learn more about JBI Library’s Passover offerings, visit www.jbilibrary.org, call 800-999-6476 or email haggadah@jbilibrary.org.
