Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Poetry by Richard Perry: Broken Ties
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 Track Posts Top Finishes in Division 3 State Relays
The Reading track teams drove down to Oliver Ames in Easton, MA on a cold, windy, and rainy day with big goals in mind.
Op-Ed: Tech is not always the answer
Something remarkable happened in 2025: about 18 states banned students’ access to smartphones and other personal electronic devices from the first to the last bell of the school day
Whitelam Books to Host Bedazzled Books Workshop with Slow Craft
Whitelam Books is excited to host Slow Craft for a Bedazzled Books Workshop on Wednesday, May 20 from 6:00-8:00PM!
Community comes together for annual Bike Recycling and Give-Away event
More than 150 donated bikes found new homes this week as the community came together for Reading’s annual Bike Recycling and Give-Away event.
Reading Symphony Orchestra to present “Blast Off into Space!” pops concert
The Reading Symphony Orchestra will close out its pops season with a space-themed musical adventure during “Blast Off into Space!” on Sunday, May 17, at 3:30 pm at the William E. Endslow Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School.
Reading Police issue safety reminder as “Senior Assassin” game begins
The Reading Police Department is reminding residents and students to prioritize safety as the annual “Senior Assassin” game, involving Reading Memorial High School seniors, officially began on May 7.
Personal essay by Mary Ellen O’Neill
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 to present spring concert “As the Seasons Turn”
The Reading Community Singers (RCS) will welcome the community to their annual spring concert, As the Seasons Turn, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 7:30 pm at Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center.
Reading PorchFest: Be a Part of the Tradition
Now in its eighth year, Reading PorchFest is a community rite of spring.
Whitelam Books to Host Double Author Story Time with Carrie Finison & Julie Koon
Whitelam Books is delighted to host children's authors Carrie Finison and Julie Koon at our weekly story time.
Seasonal allergy tips: small changes can bring big relief
May is recognized as National Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month, and local health officials are encouraging residents to take simple steps to reduce exposure to seasonal allergens as pollen levels rise across Massachusetts.
Amesbury City Councilor Pam Gilday Endorses Tram Nguyen for Congress
State Representative Tram Nguyen announced the endorsement of Amesbury District One City Councilor Pam Gilday.
Reading Police Department invites community to 2026 Open House
The Reading Police Department is inviting residents to its 2026 Open House on Saturday, May 20, offering the community a chance to meet local officers, explore police equipment, and enjoy a family-friendly afternoon.
Poetry by Richard Perry: Listen
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 Track falls to Lexington
The Middlesex League regular season track championship was most likely decided on April 29th in Lexington, as the top teams in the league - Reading and Lexington - squared off.
Newburyport City Councilor Brian Callahan Endorses Tram Nguyen for Congress
State Representative Tram Nguyen announced the endorsement of Newburyport Ward 3 City Councilor Brian Callahan.
DPW honors staff, recognizes Ken Hulings with First Responder Award
The Department of Public Works (DPW) gathered last Thursday at the DPW garage for a special luncheon and recognition event, celebrating the dedication and hard work of staff across all divisions.
Compost Center opens for season
The Town of Reading has released details for the 2026 compost season, including accepted materials, access requirements, and important guidelines for residents using the Compost Center.
Business property inspections underway for FY2027 revaluation
The Town of Reading is reminding local business owners that Business Personal Property Inspections for the FY2027 revaluation are part of the Town’s ongoing effort to ensure accurate and equitable property assessments.