Baltimore Orioles, Sarasota County Announce Reading Program

Sarasota County libraries and the Baltimore Orioles announced a new partnership to promote literacy through the Orioles Big League Reader program, a county release said.

The program started on Tuesday. Children age 6 and up who check out three books at any of the eight Sarasota County public libraries will receive a Home Run Reading Card. After reading the books and returning them to the library, a youth library staff member will initial their reading card, which is good for a general admission ticket to the March 9, 2011, Baltimore Orioles game at Ed Smith Stadium, the release said.

“Literacy is such a huge part of being successful in life,” said Holly Anderson, outreach coordinator, Sarasota County library system. “When children start reading early in life they open the door to a whole new world of discovery and self-confidence that can lead them anywhere they want to go.”

“The Orioles organization is excited to partner with the Sarasota County library system and help promote literacy among local area youth,” said Greg Bader, Orioles director of communications.

The Baltimore Orioles spring training season begins at the new Ed Smith Stadium on Tuesday, March 1.

“We are proud to partner with the Baltimore Orioles in support of reading,” said Sarabeth Kalajian, general manager, Sarasota County library system. “They continue to step up to the plate in so many ways to support this community and we are looking forward to hundreds of little Orioles fans in the stand on March 9.”