Read Across Oklahoma returns to OKC Zoo in 2025

Listen to this article

OKLAHOMA CITY — Read Across Oklahoma, the state’s premier literacy event for young children, returns on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden.

This year’s theme, “Reading Safari,” is inspired by Oklahoma author Tammi Sauer’s heartwarming children’s book, Caring For Your Lion.

Thirty schools from across the state will be represented, with more than 1,649 students invited to attend the Oklahoma Department of Libraries’ annual event. Kindergarten through 2nd grade classes will attend as special guests, receiving paid admission to the Zoo, a copy of the book and the opportunity to participate in a special reading by the author along with activity stations throughout the park. Teachers and students receive copies of the book in advance, allowing them to explore and read together in the classroom and at home—an essential step in strengthening early literacy skills.

“Early access to books is key to developing strong literacy skills, and Read Across Oklahoma gives young learners a meaningful and memorable way to connect with reading,” said Oklahoma Department of Libraries Executive Director Natalie Currie. “Thanks to IMLS, thousands of children experienced Tammi Sauer’s book Caring for Your Lion and will leave this event with a new appreciation for reading and exploration.”

As the primary financial supporters of Read Across Oklahoma, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and Tinker Federal Credit Union work with ODL to inspire a love of reading among children, many of whom will be visiting the Zoo for the first time.

“Many of these students have never been to the Zoo and do not get this kind of opportunity,” said Rachel Allen, a Putnam City Schools teacher who will be attending the event with her class.

The public is also welcome to join the celebration. The first 1,500 children with paid Zoo admission or a ZOOfriends membership pass will receive a free book and can participate in engaging learning activities throughout the Zoo.

This year’s featured book, Caring For Your Lion, by Oklahoma author Tammi Sauer, is a humorous and heartwarming story about a young boy who orders a kitten but instead receives a lion—leading to a series of amusing hijinks.

Tammi Sauer, a former teacher and library media specialist, is a children’s book author with 30 picture books and more on the way. Her work has received numerous awards and starred reviews.

Read Across Oklahoma will take place March 27, 2025 at the Oklahoma City Zoo from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to attend and participate in the activity stations throughout the Zoo and hear a story read by an author. For more information about Read Across Oklahoma, visit oklahoma.gov/libraries/read or contact the Oklahoma Department of Libraries at [email protected].