A portable device for providing an information management system for blind individuals, including those who read Braille format writing, and who may either partially or completely lack sight capabilities, and/or who may be unable to process visual information obtained from printed character materials. The portable device features a scanner for scanning the printed material, software for interpreting and translating the printed material into Braille and a Braille array display for displaying the Braille. In addition, the portable device preferably features an annotation feature for adding notes to the text as well as for separate text entry, more preferably through a Braille keyboard. Other preferred components include an organizer component for providing calendar information, reminders and other useful functions for the management of information. A management component provides a software module for displaying menus for selecting functions, such that a Braille equivalent of a GUI (graphical user interface) is provided. Thus, the portable device of the present invention provides a complete information management solution for blind individuals.