Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Reading Board of Library Trustees seeks applicants for vacant seat
The Reading Board of Library Trustees is accepting letters of interest from residents seeking to fill a vacant seat on the board, with an expected start date of August 1, 2026.
Reading Public Library to Host Public Reading of Frederick Douglas’s Historic 1852 Address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July”?
Community members in Reading will gather on Wednesday, July 1 at 6:30 pm for a public reading and facilitated discussion of Frederick Douglass’s landmark 1852 speech, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”
Watch England vs. Croatia on the big screen at the Reading Public Library
The library’s Community Room is hosting a World Cup watch party on June 17 - snacks included, no registration required!
Photo Exhibit "Quabbin: Yesterday and Today" Opens at Reading Public Library
The Reading Public Library is hosting Quabbin: Yesterday and Today, a photographic exhibit that pairs historic images of the Quabbin Reservoir's creation with contemporary landscape and wildlife photography from the region.
All are welcome to celebrate the opening of the Library Terrace on Thursday, June 4 at 7 pm
Thanks to the generosity of the Reading Public Library Foundation, the library has a beautiful new outdoor space that extends our programming area and offers the community a new spot to meet up and enjoy the outdoors, especially through the summer.
You are invited to the library’s exclusive after-hours event for readers! Summer Sizzlers: Booktalks & Mocktails is on Friday, June 12, 7:00 p.m.
At Summer Sizzlers, the literary event of the year, seven booktalkers will share their reviews of hot new titles in a buzzy event that’s like a speed date with books.
Celebrate Freedom at Reading’s Annual Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 20 from 1:00-5:00pm
On Saturday, June 20, join us in commemorating Juneteenth, a day of reflection, celebration, and community.
Reading Is Revolutionary: RPL’s 2026 Summer Reading Program kicks off June 22
This summer, the Reading Public Library is inviting kids, teens, and adults to pick up a book and join the revolution.
Celebrate the opening of the Reading Public Library Terrace on June 4
The Reading Public Library invites the community to celebrate the official opening of its new Library Terrace on Wednesday, June 4, at 7:00 pm.
Hands joined on the Common: A Wampanoag celebration comes to Reading
On a sun-dried afternoon, children and elders alike joined hands and moved together, a reminder that culture is something lived, not just remembered.
Game Changers Media Series: Bill Russell’s Red and Me
Reading Public Library to host conversation on the life and legacy of basketball legend and civil rights leader.
The Friends of the Reading Public Library Outdoor Concert Series kicks off on Saturday, May 2 at 10am!
Join us for The Friends of the Reading Public Library Outdoor Concerts starting this Saturday and running during the month of May into early June.
Reminder: Library Card Contest Design entries due tomorrow
Young artists in Reading have one more day to submit their entries for the Reading Public Library’s Library Card Design Contest.
Town Meeting 101 session planned at Reading Public Library
Residents looking to better understand how Town Meeting works are invited to attend an upcoming “Town Meeting 101” information session on Saturday, April 25, from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the Reading Public Library Community Room.
Join us on Wednesday, April 29, at 7 pm for the compelling story of the aftermath of the Battles of Lexington and Concord!
You may have learned a lot about the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Evacuation of Boston, now take a closer look at the struggles of those trapped in Boston and their efforts to survive.
Local leaders share insights at Women’s Leadership Panel
In recognition of Women’s History Month, a panel of local leaders gathered at the Reading Public Library on Thursday, March 26, 2026, to share their experiences.
Learn a New Language at the Reading Public Library
Our mission is to connect all people with opportunities to grow and learn and to provide resources that support a welcoming and engaged community.
Level Up with Tech: Live Better, Spend Less
This spring, RPL is offering two programs designed to help you master your devices and keep more money in your pocket.
Embrace sustainability & update your look at our all-ages Accessory & Jewelry Swap on Saturday, April 11, from 12:00 - 3:00 pm.
Join us for a sustainability-focused community swap of fun fashion accessories and jewelry!
Reading Public Library launches youth library card design contest
Young artists in Reading are invited to showcase their creativity and potentially see their work featured across the community.