Sarasota libraries partner with Orioles to promote reading

Sarasota County and the Baltimore Orioles are teaming up to encourage youth readership with the Big League Reader Program.

The program is in its fourth consecutive year and takes place through February. Participators must read three or more books during the month to earn a free reserved grandstand ticket to a Baltimore Orioles Spring Training game.

Children ages 6 and up who are interested can sign up at any Sarasota County library where they will be given a Big League Reader scorecard.

After finishing three books, children must have their scorecard stamped and signed by a library staff member for a free ticket to the game Sunday, March 9.

“Youth literacy is a key community initiative supported by the Orioles,” said Vice President of Orioles-Sarasota David Rovine in a press release. “We are excited to reward Big League readers with a day at Ed Smith Stadium.”

Last year, nearly 100 Sarasota-area children completed the program.

All books must be read and scorecards stamped by Friday, Feb. 28. Companion tickets are available at a reduced rate. For more information, visit www.scgov.net.

To contact Harriet Sokmensuer, please email [email protected]