Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Tram for Congress Announces Strong Grassroots Engagement to End First Quarter
State Representative Tram Nguyen closed the first quarter of 2026 strongly and made meaningful progress in continuing to build a broad, community-driven movement fueled by strong grassroots engagement and in-District support.
Composting in Reading: what residents need to know
For residents interested in sustainability and reducing waste, a recent community event at the Reading Public Library highlighted how composting could play a larger role in Reading’s future.
Celebrating visibility, identity, and inclusion
Each year on March 31, 2026, communities around the world recognize International Transgender Day of Visibility.
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.
Tram for Congress Releases New Video: “Putting You First”
State Representative Tram Nguyen today released a new video, “Putting You First” highlighting how she will fight on behalf of the people of the Sixth Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
RCTV Studios Appoints Deirdre Morales as Executive Director
RCTV Studios, Reading’s community media and PEG access organization, is pleased to announce the appointment of Deirdre Morales as its new Executive Director.
Election Day is April 7: key deadlines and voting options
With the Annual Town Election approaching, Reading officials are reminding residents of key dates, deadlines, and voting options ahead of Election Day.
Latest budget video offers insight into Reading’s finances
As Reading moves through municipal budget season, town officials are continuing a new effort to help residents better understand how local finances work
Last call: apply for a Community Garden plot by April 1
The deadline is approaching for residents interested in growing their own food this season at the Community Garden plots located in the Mattera Conservation Area.
RCTV invites community to Open House and Studio Tours
Residents are invited to get a behind-the-scenes look at local media production during an upcoming Open House at RCTV Studios.
Representative Jones holding district office hours April 10 at Reading’s Pleasant Street Center
House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, April 10 from 10:15-11:15 a.m. at the Pleasant Street Center, located at 49 Pleasant Street.
Update on 186 Summer Ave Arson
The investigation into the July 9, 2025, fire at 186 Summer Avenue remains active, and authorities are seeking the public’s help.
Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) Honors Local Elementary School Students at 2026 Art Contest Awards Ceremony
RMLD’s Elementary Art Contest has provided important energy and electrical safety education to local students for more than 25 years.
Trader Joe’s Comes to Reading
Neighborhood grocery store set to open on Walkers Brook Drive in 2026
Poetry by Richard Perry: A Wish
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 launches budget video series ahead of Town Meeting
As Reading continues municipal budget season, town officials are offering residents a new way to better understand how local finances work and where their tax dollars go.
Select Board appoints Jayne Wellman as Town Manager
For residents following leadership changes at Town Hall, the Select Board voted on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, to appoint Jayne Wellman as Reading’s next Town Manager.
Accessory Swap set for April 11 at Reading Public Library
Looking to refresh your spring style, without spending a dime? The Reading Public Library is hosting a fun, sustainability-focused Accessory Swap this April.
What to know about Reading’s Charter changes on the April 7 ballot
As voters head to the polls for the April 7 Annual Town Election, they will notice a question on the back of the ballot asking whether to approve a series of proposed changes to Reading’s Home Rule Charter.
Friends of RPL seeks volunteers for annual House Tour event
The Friends of the Reading Public Library are seeking volunteers to help bring one of Reading’s most anticipated community events back this spring.