The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has released its recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for ages 18 and younger, offering families and caregivers a clear roadmap for routine vaccinations from birth through the teen years.

More than 1,000 municipal leaders from across the Commonwealth gathered January 22-24, 2026, in Boston’s Seaport District for the annual conference of the Massachusetts Municipal Association, known as Connect 351, a three-day event focused on policy, training, collaboration, and advocacy for cities and towns.

Community members are invited to take part in a fun and educational evening at the Reading Public Library during the upcoming Black History Month Trivia Night on Monday, February 23, at 6:30 pm in the Community Room.

On Thursday, February 12 at 4:00pm, cartoonist Cara Bean visits the Reading Public Library for Doodling Secret Messages, a heartwarming workshop where tiny drawings carry big meaning.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED, the Town’s emergency notification system that delivers critical alerts directly to your phone. The service helps keep the community informed and prepared during urgent situations.

Nomination papers for the upcoming Town election are available, and prospective candidates must submit completed papers to the Town Clerk’s Office for certification by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

A Lunch & Learn program focused on Domestic Violence in the Workplace brought employers, HR professionals, and community members together on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Presence&Co on Main Street. The session, organized by the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce, focused on education, awareness, and practical workplace responses to domestic violence.

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, February 13 from 10:15-11:15 a.m. at the Pleasant Street Center, located at 49 Pleasant Street.

Today, State Representative Tram Nguyen announced earning the endorsements of Chair Chuck Costello, Margaret Chow-Menzer, Barbara Jessel, and Peter Perkins, four members of the Boxford Select Board. 

A water main break has occurred on School Street, resulting in a temporary shutdown of water service for all households on the street while repairs are underway.

Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.

Reading Community Singers has three OPEN rehearsals for their 2026 Spring Concert ~ on Tuesday, January 27th, and February 3rd & 10th, from 7:30 to 9:30 at Old South United Methodist Church.

Have a great time out with friends and family on March 28 at the annual Reading Lions Comedy Night.

The Reading Lions Comedy Night returns to The Wakefield Elks, doors open at 7:00 pm for an 8:00 pm show on Saturday, March 28.

Whitelam Books is thrilled to welcome author Jane Ward in conversation with  author Nancy Bernhard on Wednesday, February 11 at 6:00pm. Jane will be reading from her new book Should Have Told You Sooner, while Nancy will share her book, The Double Standard Sporting House at the event. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.

Today, State Representative Tram Nguyen announced raising more than $257,000 in 2025 in her campaign to represent the Massachusetts 6th Congressional District. She closed the year with over a quarter of a million dollars raised from 1,185 individual donors, and over 80% of all money raised came from in-state supporters. 

Dog owners in Reading can now apply for their 2026 dog licenses, with applications currently being accepted through the Reading town Clerk’s Office.

If you’ve sold a vehicle, no longer own it, or moved, you may be eligible for a Motor Vehicle Excise Abatement. The Town of Reading is reminding residents that abatements are available in certain situations- but proper documentation is required.

The RMHS Drama Club proudly presents the premiere of an original stage adaptation of St. Lucy’s Home for Girls Raised by Wolves, based on the short story by Karen Russell. Created collaboratively by the student company, this bold and imaginative production explores identity, belonging, and the tension between instinct and expectation through a darkly whimsical lens.

Nomination papers for the following elected positions are now available at the Town Clerk’s Office.

The Reading Department of Public Works has moved on to the snow removal and sidewalk plowing phase of storm cleanup following the recent winter storm.