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Phone: 800-332-7922
Email: ipicustomerservice@iowa.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Am I eligible to utilize IPI Braille on Demand?
A. IPI Braille on Demand is a resource for Iowa educators working with sight-impaired school children.
While IPI Braille on Demand is not available to individuals or other organizations within Iowa or outside of Iowa, IPI's standard Braille transcription services may be able to assist you with your needs. Please contact Lucas Timpe at 800-332-7922 or ipibraille@iowa.gov.

Q. How many pages can I order through IPI Braille on Demand?
A.
The maximum pages allowed per student per day is ten. For quantities larger than ten pages, please contact Lucas Timpe at Iowa Prison Industries Braille at 800-332-7922 or ipibraille@iowa.gov for an estimate outside of these services.

Q. Who performs the braille transcription?
A.
Offender employees, supervised by IPI staff, perform the Braille transcription. Offenders receive extensive training and are certified by The Library of Congress - National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.

Q. Do my tax dollars support IPI?
A.
Iowa Prison Industries is a self-supporting division of the Department of Corrections. Revenue from the sale of products pays for all cost of operation, including civilian salaries, offender allowances, raw materials, and equipment. No tax dollars are appropriated by the legislature.

Q. What types of files can I upload for transcription?
A
.
The IPI Braille on Demand website accepts most common document formats including, but not limited to, PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, JPG, PNG, GIF, etc.

Q. Where will my embossed Braille on Demand order ship from?
A.
Your order will ship from our Anamosa warehouse.

Q. How much will shipping cost for embossed materials?
A.
You must choose from two shipping options at checkout. USPS Free Matter for the Blind will ship at no cost. UPS Ground is charged at standard UPS rates, which will be added to your invoice on a monthly basis. UPS Ground should reach most locations within Iowa within 1 to 2 business days, while USPS Free Matter for the Blind may take longer depending on your location.

Q. How do I request a quote for larger Braille transcription projects?
A.
Please contact Lucas Timpe at ipibraille@iowa.gov or 800-332-7922.

Q. Can I get a tour of your facilities?
A.
Customers are welcome to visit IPI facilities to see our shops in action, place orders or discuss special needs. Please contact Lucas Timpe at ipibraille@iowa.gov or 800-332-7922 to set up an appointment and review tour policies.

Q. How can I find out the status of my order?
A.
IPI understands how important your order delivery date is to you. Please contact Customer Service at ipicustomerservice@iowa.gov or 800-332-7922.