That rule was later adjusted and non-members are now invited to attend., though meal functions often still include membership votes like the installation of new officers to the board of directors. In addition to providing trainings during Professional Development Conferences, trainers can be hired to travel directly to a site and provide customized education on an array of topics. Training publications Some workshops from previous conferences have ben redeveloped into standalone training manuals and are available in print, and ebook. Membership services The organization is member-supported, with dues paying members primarily existing in the United States. There are some Canadian members and a few from other countries. Members gain access to educational tools like a peer-reviewed journal of skills articles, a technical support forum, an archive of training videos, and more. Braille formats and textbook certification NBA is the only organization that certifies transcribers in the Principles of Print to Braille Transcription formats guidelines published by the Braille Authority of North America. The exam process consists of a transcriber taking a mini-textbook and transcribing it using the most recent Textbook/Formats guidelines. Lifetime Achievement Award Since 2011 the National Braille Association has selected a single recipient each year to be awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Nominations for the award can be submitted by anyone who wishes to nominate a person they feel has made a significant contribution to braille through their work. Braille organizations Blindness organizations in the United States