Read to Reef

During the month of October 2026, Baltimore-area children in fifth grade and younger can visit any Pratt location, with their parent or legal guardian, show their library card, and get a Read to Reef bookmark, while supplies last.

Please note: this program is designed for Baltimore families, so if you are interested in visiting the National Aquarium as part of a school, community group, or after school program, please visit  aqua.org/your-aquarium to learn more about their community programs.

Program Flyer: English | español

How to Participate 

1. Pick up a bookmark: Visit any Pratt Library location in October to pick up a Read to Reef bookmark, while supplies last.
2. Read five books: Borrow, read, or listen to five aquatic- or conservation-themed books. Look for books featured in the Read to Reef collection or choose your own.
3. Complete your bookmark: Record the five books you read on your Read to Reef bookmark.
4. Reserve your Aquarium tickets (see below)

Read to Reef Books

Check out these Read to Reef books in the Pratt Library catalog:

Choose Your Own Books

In addition to the curated collection, you can ask your librarian for suggestions. browse our Kids Catalog for aquatic- or conservation-themed books (try the sections for Science or Animals), or find eBooks in Maryland's Digital Library for Kids. Books selected in the Pratt catalog may be reserved to pick up at any Pratt location. 

Reserve Your Tickets

Reserve your tickets at aqua.org/read-tickets. All guests must reserve their visit date and entry time in advance by using the Aquarium’s reservation portal. To reserve your timed entry slot, use the code printed on the bottom of your Read to Reef bookmark. This code can only be used once to redeem up to six tickets. 

Readers have until January 18, 2027, to make their reservation. Aquarium blackout dates are November 26 and December 25, 2026.

Need Help Redeeming Your Code? Please contact the National Aquarium at admissions@aqua.org or 410-659-4269. Representatives are available from 9 am to 4:30 pm, seven days a week.

Read to Reef Events

• 
  Jello Aquarium Crafternoon

  What’s better than a craft that’s also a snack? Kick off Read to Reef by making your own …

  Hampden

  October 3, 3 PM
• 
  Crafternoon: Read to Reef Shark Craft

  Celebrate the start of Read to Reef with an ocean-inspired Crafternoon. We'll be making a shark craft.

  Waverly

  October 5, 4 PM
• 
  Cupcake Liner Crab Scenes

    Read to Reef is here! Make an ocean scene to celebrate.

  Roland Park

  October 7, 3 PM
• 
  Paper Fish

  Join us at the library to make a colorful paper fish with streamers out of common materials! All materials are provided…

  Northwood

  October 7, 3 PM