Whitelam Books is delighted to welcome Children’s Book Author and Illustrator AJ Smith to our weekly story time as he shares his book Catnip Mouse, Wednesday, February 18 at 10:30am.

Black History Month marks more than a moment of recognition; it reflects a century-long effort to ensure that Black history, scholarship, and lived experiences are remembered, taught, and valued.

February is National Heart Month, a time to focus on habits that help prevent heart disease and support long-term cardiovascular health.

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

With the New England Patriots headed back to the Super Bowl, excitement is building for game-day gatherings, watch parties, and plenty of football food.

Residents are invited to stop by Reading Town Hall next week for open office hours with the Town’s Office of Equity and Social Justice. No appointment is required.

The Town of Reading has announced that the Downtown Improvement Phase II project is now officially out to bid, marking a major step forward in planned upgrades to the High Street and depot-area downtown corridor.

Winter weather is making another appearance in Reading, with steady snowfall expected to bring about 3-4 inches of total accumulation before tapering off later this afternoon. Town crews began road treatment early and continue working through neighborhood streets to keep travel routes as safe as possible.

Protecting the American Dream in the Age of Trump

Written by Tram T. Nguyen

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.