Mayor Brandon M. Scott is set to join the lineup of special guest readers at the B&O Railroad Museum for the Read Across America celebration taking place on Sunday, March 1, and Monday, March 2. On these two days, admission to the museum will be complimentary for all children aged 12 and under.
This two-day event at the B&O Railroad Museum aims to unite notable leaders, media figures, and community participants for an engaging atmosphere of storytelling and family entertainment within the museum’s historic Roundhouse. Alongside Mayor Scott, attendees will have the opportunity to hear stories from several other prominent figures, including Joy Moore, the mother of Gov. Wes Moore; Janay Reece, WJZ News anchor; and the versatile poet and artist Wordsmith, among others.
The Read Across America initiative, organized by the National Education Association, represents the largest annual celebration of reading in the United States. Coinciding with Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2, this event aims to foster a love for reading in children that extends throughout the entire year. Established in 1998, the initiative encourages readers of all generations to delve into the diverse world of literature through interactive activities and programs.
At the B&O Railroad Museum’s celebration, families can take part each day from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in half-hour story sessions led by various special guests, with a new reader stepping onto the stage every half hour. Many attendees might recognize these hosts from their favorite television shows! The narrative sessions will feature cherished children’s literature set in one of Baltimore’s most historic venues.
In addition to the story readings, attendees can expect themed giveaways and a unique “book tasting” experience, designed to ignite interest and enthusiasm for reading among children.
On Monday, free books will be distributed while supplies last. Young readers could receive titles such as “Pete the Cat’s Train Trip” by Kimberly Dean and James Dean, “Mel Fell” by Corey R. Tabor, or “The Gardener” by Sarah Stewart.
“Reading opens doors to imagination, opportunity, and lifelong learning,” remarked Kris Hoellen, the executive director of the B&O Railroad Museum. “We are thrilled to bring together leaders from across Maryland to celebrate literacy and inspire the next generation of readers. At the B&O, we believe that stories—just like railroads—connect us to fresh ideas, new locations, and each other.”
Below is the schedule of readings to help families plan their visits effectively:
Sunday, March 1
- 10:30 a.m.: Joy Moore, Children’s Advocate and Mother of Maryland Governor Wes Moore
- 11 a.m.: Roz Kreizenbeck, Director of Education & Interpretation at the Walters Art Museum
- 11:20 a.m.: Caite Debevec, Learning & Visitor Experience Director at Port Discovery
- 11:40 a.m.: Emma Snyder, Owner of The Ivy Bookshop
- Noon: Alex Parker, WBFF Reporter
- 12:30 p.m.: Joyce A. Robinson, Railroad Engineer and Author
- 1 p.m.: Carole Boston Weatherford, Caldecott Award-Winning Author
- 1:30 p.m.: Sammie Samuels, Director of the Irish American Museum
- 2 p.m.: Jay Shanahan, Museum Educator at the B&O Railroad Museum
- 2:30 p.m.: Peggy Koenig, Education Specialist at the B&O Railroad Museum
- 3 p.m.: Sam Hughes, Education Director at the B&O Railroad Museum
- 3:30 p.m.: Jay Shanahan, Museum Educator at the B&O Railroad Museum
Monday, March 2
- 10:30 a.m.: Megan Knight, WMAR News Anchor
- 11 a.m.: Wordsmith, Multidisciplinary Artist
- 11:30 a.m.: Lesley Mason, Children’s Services Manager at Enoch Pratt
- Noon: Mayor of Baltimore City Brandon Scott
- 12:30 p.m.: Janay Reece, WJZ Anchor
- 1 p.m.: Tiffany “Lady T” Watson, WBFF Bmore Lifestyle Host
- 1:30 p.m.: Danielle Harris, Director of Community Relations at the University of Maryland at Baltimore
- 2 p.m.: Kerry Watson, Executive Vice President of Orioles Public Affairs
- 2:30 p.m.: Joyce A. Robinson, Railroad Engineer and Author
- 3 p.m.: Sam Hughes, Education Director at the B&O Railroad Museum
- 3:30 p.m.: Jay Shanahan, Museum Educator at the B&O Railroad Museum
All activities during these two days are included with regular museum admission costs, ranging from $12 to $20. Notably, children 12 years and under will receive free entry on these days. The B&O Railroad Museum is also a proud supporter of Museums for All, providing $1 admission to guests who present a SNAP/EBT card.
Located at 901 W. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, the B&O Railroad Museum offers free parking on-site.
