Reading and the Trail to Eagle
Reading is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Reading Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Reading. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Take a tour of a library.
- b.Learn how to search a library's card catalog or computerized catalog.
- c.Search the catalog for six books of four different types.
- d.With the assistance of your counselor or the librarian, see if you can locate the six books.
- e.Explain what is a library card, why it is needed, and how to get one.
- 2
Do the following:
- a.Identify a book you have enjoyed. Find out what other books the author has written.
- b.Look at one or more 'best books' lists. Identify at least one book you would like to read.
- 3
Read four different types of books, such as poetry, fiction, nonfiction, or biographies. Do ONE of the following for each book you have read: write a review, watch a movie based on the book, or give a 'book talk'.
- 4
Read a nonfiction book or magazine that teaches you how to do something. Complete a project from the book.
- 5
Read about the world around you from any two sources. Discuss what you have learned with your counselor.
- 6
With your counselor's and parent or guardian's permission, choose ONE activity related to reading and devote at least four hours of service. Discuss your participation with your counselor.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Reading Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Reading, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Reading is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 6 weeks for a easy badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 13 Reading requirements for you.
Reading Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Reading merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Reading is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Reading merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Reading in about 6 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Reading merit badge?
Reading is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Reading can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Reading merit badge have?
Reading has 6 main requirements with 7 sub-requirements, for 13 items in total.
