In 1988, Baltimore Mayor Kurt L. Schmoke created the Baltimore City Literacy Corporation, a quasi-city agency charged with addressing the issue of illiteracy in Baltimore City. Now a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, Baltimore Reads, Inc. teaches adults the literacy skills necessary to function in society, achieve goals, and develop individual knowledge and potential.

Now in our 20th year, Baltimore Reads’ mission is to offer instruction to adults in basic reading, writing, mathematics and employment readiness skills, operate a Book Bank that provides FREE books to teachers, schools, community organizations and families, engage in community outreach, and raise awareness of the adult literacy crisis in the Baltimore region.

Since 1990, the Ripken Adult Learning Center has offered basic literacy and life skills classes. Weekly, daytime and evening classes are available for non-readers through those wanting GED preparation. Additionally, Baltimore Reads offers English as a Second Language (ESOL) for newcomers to our country.  Students, both walk-ins and those referred from government and social city agencies, enroll in 10-12 week sessions. All classes at our location are FREE.

Books for Kids Day is held annually the first Saturday in May. BFKD is a highly visible, well publicized special event during which new and gently used books are collected and delivered by individuals, area public and private schools and businesses. Books are sorted and transported to Baltimore Reads’ Book Bank for redistribution.

The Book Bank assists low-income families in building home libraries and promotes reading and life-long learning. Books are also available to teachers and schools. Book donations throughout the year ensure sufficient Book Bank inventory for redistribution to children and families through community service centers, school libraries, and health and human service agencies.

Like  other not  for  profits, in the last 18 months, demand  for services has increased and our waiting lists have grown  while  both government and philanthropic dollars have declined.

Now more than ever, we need your support.

About Us

Board of Directors

Baltimore Reads Staff

Providing Skills for Life