Discover New Depths with the Return of the National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library's Read to Reef Book Club
The National Aquarium kicks off fall with community programs inviting locals to visit for less.
The National Aquarium kicks off fall with community programs inviting locals to visit for less.
As many students return to in-person learning this fall, the National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library are once again teaming up to offer aquatic-themed books and learning experiences outside of the classroom for Baltimore youth. On October 1, the National Aquarium, in partnership with the Enoch Pratt Free Library, celebrates the return of Read to Reef, an award-winning program that connects Baltimore students' love of reading with the world's aquatic treasures.
Beginning October 1, 2021, Baltimore-area children in fifth grade and younger with a Pratt Library card can receive a special bookmark from their local Pratt Library (supplies are limited). Participants may request bookmarks until October 31. After reading any five aquatic or conservation-themed books, students can enter the code on the bookmark through the Aquarium's online ticketing portal to make a reservation and receive free admission (up to four guests) through January 17, 2022.
The fall 2021 Read to Reef booklist includes titles suitable for children of all reading levels—from children who have not yet learned to read to older students looking to learn more about the wonders of our blue planet—this list has something for everyone. Notably, the list also features titles from local authors including DC-based author Deborah Lee Rose, Eastern Shore native Randi Sonenshine and Annapolis author Jennifer Keats Curtis.
"Books can unlock a world of possibilities for children and their families, and the Read to Reef book club is a great way for them to discover an interest in learning about the ocean and environment," said National Aquarium Community Programs Manager Sarah Doccolo. "This year, participants can read stories about different habitats from all over the world, as well as animals they can see right here in Maryland. After reading titles from local and international authors, students can bring their families to the Aquarium to see the animals and exhibits in person, while learning new ways to love and protect them. We are proud to offer local students the chance to explore their hometown Aquarium where we hope to inspire them as the next generation of hopeful conservationists."
"We're so thrilled to, once again, partner with the National Aquarium on this special program for Baltimore children," says Pratt Library CEO Heidi Daniel. "This book club helps instill the love of learning in our youngest customers and opens a whole new world to them as they get to experience what they've read about in books."
Since the program's inception in 2016, 13,281 Baltimore-area students have read more than 66,405 books. Each of these students earned a trip to explore the Aquarium free of charge with their families, totaling 47,563 tickets.
In addition to Read to Reef, the National Aquarium offers the following community programs:
The Aquarium's popular Maryland Mornings program (available September 7, 2021 - February 28, 2022) offers Maryland residents $10 off adult admission and $5 off child admission before noon, Sunday through Friday.
As always, admission is half-price every Friday after 5pm through Half-Price Friday Nights, presented by M&T Bank.
On Friday, October 29, 2021 from 5pm to 8pm, the Aquarium will offer free admission as part of the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts' Free Fall Baltimore celebration. Online reservations will be required and capacity will be limited.
The National Aquarium is proud to offer public health workers $5 off General Admission adult tickets for themselves and the dependents in their party who are also eligible for adult admission rates (ages 12-64). Maryland residents who are medical professionals, hospital employees and emergency medical service providers are eligible for this offer.
In a typical year, the Aquarium welcomes 100,000 guests for free or reduced admission through these community programs, sharing educational and enjoyable experiences with local and state residents.
Please visit our community page to learn more about the programs listed above.