The National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library proudly welcome the return of the beloved Read to Reef book club for its Spring 2025 season. This acclaimed program, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026, continues to ignite children’s passion for reading while fostering an appreciation for the wonders of the aquatic world.
From March 1 through March 31, Baltimore-area families with children in fifth grade and younger can visit any Enoch Pratt Free Library branch to pick up a Read to Reef bookmark using their library card while supplies last. After reading any five aquatic or conservation-themed books from the Spring 2025 Read to Reef booklist, families can redeem the code on their bookmark online for free admission to the Aquarium for up to four guests. Bookmarks can then be redeemed for Aquarium admission through June 15, 2025, offering families ample time to plan their visits.
This spring’s booklist offers an exciting selection of aquatic adventures and conservation stories tailored for children of all ages and reading levels. From colorful picture books for younger readers to engaging non-fiction for curious older students, there’s a title to inspire every budding conservationist and ocean explorer.
“The Read to Reef program is about more than just books and visits to the Aquarium,” said Sarah Doccolo, community programs manager at the National Aquarium. “It’s a way for families to spend time together, learn something new, and share the excitement of exploring. We hope every story inspires families to care for our blue planet.”
Since its inception in 2016, Read to Reef has empowered more than 22,000 young Baltimore-area readers to dive into 114,000 books and explore the National Aquarium free of charge, creating countless unforgettable memories through 83,775 free tickets.
Chad Helton, president and CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, expressed his excitement about the program.
“Programs like Read to Reef embody the spirit of partnership in Baltimore. Together, we’re opening doors for children and families to discover the beauty of reading and the importance of ocean conservation. This program brings two great organizations together while encouraging young minds to learn, explore, and dream big.”
Quote(s) from Past Read to Reef Participants/Families (2024):
“This was our first experience with the program, and we loved it. It was a wonderful way to encourage our kids to read and “earn” their tickets to the aquarium. I think it gave them a sense of accomplishment to set goals, work for something, and then receive the benefits of their hard work. We would love to do future programs like this! Readers are leaders. Thank you!”
“We love this program so much and are very grateful for the experience it provides. My children love the library and love animals and the earth. This helps bring to life what we are reading.”
“This is a fantastic way for families to visit the library and encourage children to read. Thank you for offering it! I tell all my friends when it’s “Read to Reef” month. “
National Aquarium
The National Aquarium is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. One of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland, the Aquarium welcomes over one million guests per year and generates more than $430 million annually in economic impact to the state. For more information on the National Aquarium, visit www.aqua.org.
Enoch Pratt Free Library
The Enoch Pratt Free Library, the nation’s first free library system, opened its doors in 1886, the result of the generosity and imagination of businessman and philanthropist Enoch Pratt. Mr. Pratt envisioned a public library where “races, ages, and socio-economic classes mingled and people could educate themselves – without cost,” and his passionate belief continues to guide the organization. Today’s Pratt Library – Baltimore’s public library and the Maryland State Library Resource Center – consists of the Central Library, 21 branches, two bookmobiles, the Mobile Job Center, the Pratt Centers for Technology Training, and the Regional Information Center. The library’s mission is to empower, enrich, and enhance the quality of life for all through equitable access to information, services, and opportunity.
