
Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
This fall, explore the Library’s health clinics, programs, and workshops and stay well all year!
This fall, stop by the Library to sign up for a Town of Reading flu vaccine clinic, a hearing screening, or drop by for a walk-in blood pressure check. And, we have programs to help you understand Medicare, workshops on CPR, and resources located in the Health Nook.
Aquarium to screen documentary Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story
The Lowell Lecture Series at the New England Aquarium and National Geographic present the documentary Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the blockbuster movie that shocked and excited the world.
Electronics Recycling Event coming to Reading
Clear out your old electronics responsibly this fall! Green Day Recycling will host an Electronics Recycling Event on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Old South United Church Methodist Church parking lot, 6 Salem Street in Reading.
It’s The Most Generous Time of the Year
The Reading Cultural Council recently announced the opening of this year’s grant cycle.
In FY26 Mass Cultural Council will invest $5.7 million into the Local Cultural Council (LCC) Program, in which Reading is included. This is our nation’s largest grassroots cultural funding network.
Guided Plant Walk in Reading Town Forest with expert Walter Kittredge
Nature enthusiasts and curious learners are invited to join a special guided hike in the Reading Town Forest with plant expert Walter Kittredge. The walk will take place on Saturday, September 20th, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, starting at the 371 Grove Street parking lot.
Authors and Book Groups are in season this fall at Reading Public Library!
Move over beach reads, it’s time for the Fall reading season! We have three fantastic author programs this fall as well as two new Book Groups that join our recurring Fact or Fiction, Studio 64, and Word of Mouth groups. Stop by the library to learn more or check out our fall brochure, and happy reading!
Bancroft Community Tennis Courts closed for resurfacing
The Reading Recreation Division has anounced that the Bancroft Communtiy Tennis Courts will be closed for repairs and resufacing beginning Monday, September 15th.
RMLD welcomes Interim General Manager Paul Heanue, Effective August 25, 2025
The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) and the RMLD Board of Commissioners (Board) announced that Paul Heanue will serve as interim general manager, effective August 25, 2025. Heanue brings decades of utility experience, including 10 years as general manager for Hingham Municipal Lighting Plant.
September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Each September, communities across the country come together to recognize National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. This observance is dedicated to raising awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD), a rare but serious chronic condition that affects approximately 100,000 Americans.
Sanborn Street watermain work
The Town of Reading and its contractor, Mass Pipeline Services, Inc., will be replacing the water main on Sanborn Street (Woburn St to Haven St). This is part of the Town wide water distribution system improvement program. Construction is scheduled to begin on September 10, 2025, and continue as weather permits.
Reading Recreation announces exciting new Fall Programs
Reading Recreation has a packed schedule this fall with brand-new opportunities for kids and families to learn, play, and have fun together. From creative building challenges to engaging sports and activities, there’s something for everyone.
Library programs on mortality can help you navigate the final step in our earthly journey
When it comes to mortality, there’s no time like the present to get organized. And while the topic may make us uncomfortable, it’s something we’ll all encounter. This fall, the Library offers a series of programs on navigating the final step in our earthly journey.
Reading Food Pantry seeks community support
The Reading Food Pantry, located at 6 Salem Street in the back parking lot of the Old South United Methodist Church, continues its mission to provide high-quality, respectful service to neighbors in need. The pantry addresses food and personal care needs in a welcoming environment, with the goal of enhancing well-being throughout the community.
Community spirit shines through at Reading Fall Street Faire
ain couldn’t keep the crowds away from this year’s Reading Fall Street Faire, hosted by the Reading Rotary. While the morning began with showers, the skies cleared by afternoon, and residents came out in full force to enjoy one of Reading’s most anticipated community events.
Reading Poetry Contest: share your voice, inspire hope
The Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support is inviting local teens to put their creativity to work in the Reading Poetry Contest, an initiative designed to honor lives lost to suicide or substance misuse while inspiring hope and community connection.
September is National Fruit and Veggies Month: shop local!
The Town of Reading Health Department is encouraging residents to celebrate National Fruits and Veggies Month this September by shopping local and supporting nearby farmers’ markets. Fresh, seasonal produce not only tastes better, but it also helps families add more nutritious foods to their daily meals while supporting local agriculture.
September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
The Town of Reading Health Department is recognizing National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month this September, highlighting the importance of supporting healthy kids and families in our community.
Overnight fire on Libby Avenue displaces family
Just before 2:00 am on Thursday, September 4, Reading Fire crews responded to a reported house fire on Libby Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions at a single-family home. A second alarm was immediately transmitted, bringing in additional resources to assist with the fire attack and conduct searches for potential victims.
MBTA turnback track & rail improvements forum
This meeting will provide members of the Reading community with an opportunity to become fully acquainted with the MBTA’s proposed Reading Turnback Track and commuter rail service improvement plans associated with it. The meeting will also address questions raised by attendees at a public meeting addressing this project held in February of this year.
Reading homeowners: don’t miss these tax relief deadlines
Senior Circuit Breaker Applications: must be received by September 30, 2025
All Other Personal Exemptions: apply by November 15, 2025 to be reflected on January and May tax bills
If you’re a Senior, Veteran, Blind, Surviving Spouse,or facing Financial Hardship, you may qualify for tax relief.