Retrievers Read 2026: Summer Reading Challenge
Welcome to Retrievers Read 2026 presented by the UMBC Hilltop Society!
This year, we’re shaking things up with a Bingo Challenge and a mission to support the heart of our campus—the Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery. Click here to make a donation.
Retrievers have always learned together. This summer we read together, too. Whether you’re an alum, student, faculty, parent, or staff, it’s time to hit the books!
How It Works
Step 1: Sign up!
All UMBC community members are encouraged to participate! The first 250 alumni who sign up before May 18 will receive a physical “Retriever Reader” packet in the mail. Everyone else will receive a digital packet sent to the email they signed up with.
All participants will also receive a digital code for 20% off one item at the UMBC Bookstore.
Step 2: Start reading!
As you read, keep track of your journey using your bingo sheet and reading log. For every book you finish, mark off the corresponding category on your board.
*Each book can only count toward a single category
Step 3: When you’re done, click the button below and fill out the short form by August 31, 2026 to let us know which books you read this summer. It’s that simple!Final Submission Form
Step 4: Win cool prizes!
When you submit your bingo card, you will be entered into a drawing for awesome prize packs, including gift cards to local and alumni-owned businesses. The more you read, the more chances you have to win!
- Bingo! Complete five blocks in a row and receive three entries
- Receive a bonus entry for each block completed beyond your Bingo
- Refer a fellow Retriever to participate and receive another bonus entry
- Email us a photo of your Bingo card and reading log after submitting for a bonus entry
Dates:
June 1 – August 31
Questions?
Support the AOK Library
Every student, regardless of background, deserves equal access to the tools and resources they need to succeed. Unfortunately, state funding and tuition dollars only go so far in meeting the increased demand for digital materials, extended study hours, technology access, and the inclusive learning spaces our students need. A donation to the AOK Library provides these vital components to student success. We invite you to support UMBC students with a donation—of any amount—during Retrievers Read!
Retriever-Authored Books
Explore a growing collection of books authored by UMBC alumni, faculty, and staff – from groundbreaking research to compelling fiction and memoirs.
Share Your Progress
Share updates throughout your summer reading journey using #RetrieversRead on Facebook or Instagram.
Presented by the UMBC
