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The National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library Announce the Fall Season of Read to Reef
Baltimore students leaf through new stories as the Read to Reef book club returns on October 1
The National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library are excited to welcome back the Read to Reef book club this fall. Launching on October 1, the program continues its work inspiring Baltimore students to discover the joy of reading while deepening their connection to our ocean planet, all for free.
Throughout the month of October, Baltimore families with children in fifth grade and younger can show their library card and pick up a free Read to Reef bookmark at any Enoch Pratt Free Library location. After reading five aquatic or conservation-themed books, families can use the bookmark's code to claim free Aquarium admission for up to four guests.
Bookmarks can then be redeemed for Aquarium admission through January 19, 2026, offering families ample time to plan their visits.
This season's booklist, carefully curated by Pratt library staff and Aquarium educators, features vibrant picture books, imaginative tales, and fascinating nonfiction that encourage readers of all ages and skill levels to dive into the world of water, wildlife and conservation.
"Read to Reef isn't just about reading or visiting the Aquarium," shared Sarah Doccolo, Community Programs Manager at the National Aquarium. "This program was designed to engage families in exploration and learning, encouraging children to ask questions, make connections, and develop a lasting understanding of the ocean and its ecosystems."
In the decade since its inception, Read to Reef has empowered more than 23,000 Baltimore-area students to read more than 119,000 books and experience the Aquarium free of charge—creating memories that last a lifetime.
"Read to Reef is a perfect example of Baltimore partnerships in action," said Chad Helton, President and CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. "It invites children and families to discover the magic of reading and the wonders of our ocean, sparking imagination and a love of learning every step of the way."
Bookmarks will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last beginning October 1, and may be redeemed for Aquarium admission through January 19, 2026. Visit the Read to Reef page for more details.
Quote(s) from Past Read to Reef Participants/families (2025):
"As city residents, we love this program. I am so thankful for this partnership, and my toddler is now shark-obsessed thanks to reading some shark books ahead of time and then walking through shark alley at the Aquarium."
"It is a phenomenal program that has expanded my daughter's love of ocean life and her awareness of environmental issues. She went to the National Aquarium today and told the (kind and patient) staff what she had learned reading about coral reefs. Thank you so much for this."
"Thank you for this program. We feel proud to have a national landmark here in Baltimore, but admission fees preclude our family of five from visiting the Aquarium. The Read to Reef program encouraged our children to read, but their main motivation was to visit the Aquarium."