The Town of Reading Health Department has been notified by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today that the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Massachusetts is in a woman in her 70s who was exposed in Middlesex County.

As the film marks its 50th anniversary, Jaws will return to the giant screen at the New England Aquarium’s Simons Theatre with nightly screenings Sept. 4-6. The film tells the story of a massive great white shark that terrorizes a summer resort town where a police chief, a grizzled fisherman, and an intrepid marine biologist battle the bloodthirsty animal.

Just in time for the start of Library Card Sign-up Month some of our dedicated Public Safety officers, including Officer Cooper, signed up for Reading Public Library cards! They’re ready to discover some of the many fun and educational possibilities available with a Reading Public Library card.

After months of planning and preparation, Reading Fall Street Faire is coming next Sunday, September 7.  We need Rotarians and friends to volunteer.  Please come and bring your friends and family.  It promises to be a great day.

The Town of Reading is reminding eligible residents that applications are being accepted for the Senior Property Tax Exemption program. This exemption provides qualifying seniors with property tax relief of up to $2,730 for the 2024 tax year.

Each August, communities across the country recognize National Breastfeeding Awareness Month - an opportunity to highlight the many benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and parents, as well as to share resources and support for families.

The Reading Bylaw Committee will hold two upcoming public forums to gather input on a potential Snow Shoveling Bylaw.

• Tuesday, September 16 at 7:30 pm - Virtual only

• Wednesday, September 24 at 7:30 pm - Hybrid (in-person at the Reading Public Library Community Room and virtually via Zoom)

Have you licensed your dog for 2025 yet? If not, now’s the time!

Dog licenses were due by March 31, 2025. As of April 1st, dog owners who have not yet registered will face an additional $50 fine. Tickets will be issued on September 1.

Licensing your dog is not only a legal requirement, but also helps ensure the safety and accountability of pets in the community.

Mark your calendar! The Reading Community Singers is pleased to announce our Fall season will begin with 2 more OPEN Rehearsals, on to September 2 and 9. New and Returning Singers are welcome!

The North Reading Human Rights Group invites community members to come together this fall for a special book discussion of By the Fire We Carry by Rebecca Nagle.

The event will take place on Wednesday, October 8, from 7:00 - 8:30 pm at Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street in Reading.

The Town of Reading Health Department has been notified that two mosquito samples collected in Reading on August 14, 2025, have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). As a result, Reading’s risk level has been upgraded from LOW to MODERATE. No human cases have been reported at this time.

CATO: The Coalition of Us invites community members to take part in a meaningful day of history, reflection, and dialogue with a private tour of the Royall House & Slave Quarters in Medford, followed by a conversation at the Reading Public Library.

Enjoy the energy of this amazing band and shake off those end of summer blues! An eighteen-member (including many professional musicians) big band will entertain with swing and jazz songs from across the decades.

Town staff, community members, and state legislators gathered last week to celebrate a milestone years in the making: Reading has officially been designated a Green Community by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER). The recognition follows a six-year effort by local and state leaders to secure eligibility for towns with municipal light plants, culminating this spring in Reading’s successful designation.

Mark your calendar! The Reading Community Singers is pleased to announce our Fall season will begin with Three OPEN Rehearsals, starting Tuesday, August 26, 2025, and continuing on to September 2 and 9. New and Returning Singers are welcome!

The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) designated the town of Reading as a Green Community. As a new Green Community, Reading commits to reducing energy use and emissions through clean energy and efficiency initiatives. Reading is now eligible for designation grant funding totaling more than $160,000 for energy projects in municipal and school buildings and fleets.

Today the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) officially recognized the Town of Reading as a Green Community. A ceremony on the Town Common brought together DOER Commissioner Elizabeth Mahony, members of the Reading legislative delegation, the Select Board, the Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) Board of Commissioners and Town leaders to celebrate the achievement.

The Reading Recreation Division is excited to announce that registration is now open for its lineup of fall programs! From athletics and fitness to arts, enrichment, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for all ages to enjoy this season.

On Thursday, August 14, a small group of residents gathered for the Bike Rally in the parking lot of the Reading Public Library. Under a beautiful sky, riders of all ages and skill levels showed off their wheels - from the youngest participant on a balancing bike, to another with training wheels and pinwheels, to several older kids zooming around with confidence. Reading Cares also joined in, hosting a table and handing out stickers from REI.

Reading Fire Chief Richard Nelson, Reading Police Chief David J. Clark, and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said today that they are investigating the July 9 fire at 186 Summer Ave. as suspicious and they are seeking the public’s assistance.