National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library Celebrate 10 Years of Read to Reef Book Club

With tens of thousands of young readers engaged in the past decade, the National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library are proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Read to Reef, a one-of-a-kind literacy and engagement program that has empowered young Baltimore-area children to fall in love with reading and then connect with nature firsthand through the wonder of an Aquarium visit.

Since launching in 2016, Read to Reef has connected more than 25,000 children with books, libraries, and real-world learning opportunities. In turn, more than 98,000 readers and their families visited the National Aquarium through the program, creating shared moments of discovery that extend far beyond the page.

"For the past 10 years, Read to Reef has shown what's possible when combining literacy, family engagement and shared experiences," said Jennifer Driban, Interim President and CEO of the National Aquarium. "Through this program, children can discover a love of reading while building a deeper connection to the natural world. Our partnership with the Pratt Library is proof of what can happen when two trusted community institutions work together."

As the National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library commemorate this significant milestone, they are also excited for the upcoming Read to Reef Spring season.

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 five aquatic- or conservation-themed books from the Read to Reef booklist, families can redeem their bookmark online for free admission to the Aquarium for up to six guests, with visits available through June 21.

Program metrics paint a powerful picture of Read to Reef's reach and enduring impact.

With the support of their families, Baltimore-area children have read more than 126,000 books through Read to Reef over the past decade, fostering stronger literacy skills and meaningful family experiences. Participation in the program has also helped connect children with free library resources. Over the past three years, more than 6,000 kids signed up for new library cards through Read to Reef.

"Read to Reef is a powerful example of how strong partnerships can expand opportunities for children and families across Baltimore," said Chad Helton, President and CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. "Together with the National Aquarium, we've helped families build lasting reading habits, connect with libraries at branch locations throughout the city, and experience firsthand how stories can spark curiosity and open the door to new worlds. We're proud to celebrate 10 years of inspiring children to read, learn, and imagine what's possible."

As the National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library celebrate this 10-year milestone, both organizations remain committed to ensuring that Read to Reef continues to serve as a gateway to literacy, a connection to nature and unforgettable experiences for Baltimore's next generation of learners.

Quote(s) from Past Read to Reef Participants/families:

"As a parent, I really enjoy the educational element that is fostered. I believe this program is forming a young marine scientist in my home."

"As city residents, we love this program. I am so thankful for this partnership, and my toddler is now shark-obsessed."

"I really love this program because it allows me to enjoy reading with my children! The cherry on top is the excitement of taking my family to visit the aquarium. I would not be able to visit the aquarium without this great program. Thank you for all your hard work!"

"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 and climate change. Thank you so much for this."

"This program provides a great opportunity for my kids to be excited about reading together, and they love sharing what they learned while visiting the aquarium."