Add an Article Add an Event Edit

Reading Public Library

80 General Way
781-944-0840

The Reading Public Library offers a wide variety of services to meet the educational and recreational needs of children, young adults, and those who work with them. Unlike a school library, the Reading Public Library does not attempt to collect curriculum-related materials unless those materials are of interest to the general public. Rather, the Reading Public Library seeks to complement the materials offered in a school library. Teachers who wish to enhance their students' access to library materials are encouraged to take advantage of the special borrowing privileges offered to them.

Only materials for use in the classroom or in support of the classroom are eligible to be checked out on a teacher card. As a professional courtesy, teachers are requested to notify a children's librarian or a reference librarian if they wish to take more than three books on any one topic. This will ensure that sufficient materials are left for the general public


Recent News

Reading Public Library News - January 16, 2024

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - January 16, 2024"

Read More »

Reading Public Library Happenings Newsletter - December 19, 2023

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day! Save the date, Monday, January 15 to honor and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. More details will be available in early January, Click Here to view the Reading Public Library…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - December 12, 2023

Snow much fun in the Children's Room! While the weather is balmy, check out this week's amazing storytimes and programs in the Children's Room. On Friday, December 15 at 10:00 am, join RPL Librarians for a fun adventure and help usher in…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - December 5, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - December 5, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library Winter Season Begins December 1, 2023

Winter arrives this Friday at RPL! Bundle up and get ready for a fresh round of educational and fun programs at the library. Our Winter Event Brochure is now available - mark your calendar for the Creative Arts Sunday Afternoon Concert…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - November 21, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - November 21, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - November 16, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - November 16, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - November 7, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - November 7, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - October 31, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - October 31, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - October 24, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - October 24, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - October 17, 2023

Click Here to view the Reading Public Library News - October 17, 2023

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - October 10, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - October 10, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library Happenings Newsletter for Fall 2023

It's a busy month at RPL! Fall's in full swing throughout October with programs and events for all ages. Check out links below for some ideas, and don't miss our fall events brochure, covering RPL happenings through November. Highlights: …

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - September 12, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - September 12, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - August 29, 2023

This fall, RPL will a-maize you! Corny jokes aside, we're pretty excited about all the great events lined up for the fall. You will find lots to love at the library, from reading to beading, and much more. Fall programs for all ages begin…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - August 16, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - August 16, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - August 15, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - August 15, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - Pleasant Street Book Group Returns in September!

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - Pleasant Street Book Group Returns in September!"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - August 1, 2023

Summer rolls on with events all month! On your way to vacation, or just returning, be sure to drop by the library to pick up something to read or watch, and check out one or more of these great events! Highlights: RPL's summer reading program,…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - July 18 , 2023

Click Here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - July 18 ,…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - July 11, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - July 11, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - June 28, 2023

Click Here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - June 28, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - June 22, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - June 22, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - June 20, 2023

Click here to View the Information About "Reading Public Library News - June 20, 2023"

Read More »

Reading Public Library Summer is a great time to visit RPL -May 30, 2023

Summer is a great time to visit RPL! Welcome summer! You will find lots to love at the library, from reading to music, and more. We've got fresh programs for you and your family starting June 1 running through the end of August. Follow the link…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - May 2023

Music, meetups, and more this May! Thinking of May flowers, have you checked out the Seed Library yet? Open to all, you'll find it in the Children's Room - stop by and try something new for your yard or container garden. This month brings music…

Read More »

Reading Public Library Off The Shelf Newsletter - April 25, 2023

See a familiar face on Jeopardy! 4/27 One of our very own will be on Jeopardy this week! We're so proud of Rebecca, and we can't wait to see her buzz that buzzer and answer those answers with a question. She makes us proud to be librarians. Tune in…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Check Out Our Vacation Week Programs

RPL Book Bike is ready to roll! RPL On Wheels can travel to most places in Reading including parks, community festivals, block parties, local businesses, schools or even the Commuter Rail Station! If interested in hosting the Book Bike, please…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - April 2023

New! Seed Library at RPL Are you interested in gardening? Seasoned and new growers alike are welcome to use our new Seed Library. A Seed Library is a collection of seeds for people to take. It is also a place for people to donate seeds…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : First look at April Programs And an RPL Locker video!

We hope to see you at the library in April! Another month is around the corner, and we hope to see you at the library for a program or storytime, checking out an item from our collections, or to read, study, or research! Last week, we launched…

Read More »

Spring Into a New Season with Reading Public Library

Take our spring services survey! We'd love to hear from you on the topic of RPL's new and continuing services. Since last fall, we've added some new services (like the RPL App) and updated others. It's important for us to know which ones you've…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Save The Date! Reading's Juneteenth Freedom Festival Is June 24

Click Here To View The Reading Public Library : Save The Date! Reading's Juneteenth Freedom Festival Is June 24

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Registration for Mindful Parenting is open!

Parents! Need help prioritizing? Register for Mindful Parenting Skills, 3/16 Are you a parent struggling to prioritize all of the things that you want to do in your life? Health coach and psychotherapist, Kristen Herlihy, will help you gain…

Read More »

Reading Public Library Spring Programs : March, April, May 2023

Click Here to View the Information About Reading Public Library Spring Programs : March, April, May…

Read More »

Reading Public Library Register For March Programs

Click Here To View The Reading Public Library Register For March Programs

Read More »

Reading Public Library News : Friends Book Sale Room Is Back February 18

We're so excited to share that the super-popular Friends Book Sale Room is back THIS WEEK! Now in a more accessible spot - next to the main entrance; stop by and check out the fresh fiction. As usual, kindly pay on the honor system by cash, check,…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : New Services For February

New: American Ancestors Database! If you are just starting your genealogy research or looking for new information on your family tree, you'll want to check out our latest online resource: America Ancestors. With almost 500 databases and 1.4…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - New! Job Search Essentials Series Starts In February

New programs are on the way in February! Winter rolls on and so do we! Join us at the library all month for some great programs and lots of resources on health & wellbeing, for families, or if you just need a good winter read. Follow the link…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News : January 24, 2023

Have you seen the Healing Library? Last fall, we added shelves and health resources to the turret area near the Reference Desk, including 10 kits in the Healing Library. This series of kits, each with materials devoted to a specific topic, was…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News : January 17, 2023

Digital Archives are ready to search! Are you seeking information on Reading's history and events? We have good news - the days of searching through rolls of microfilm are over! The Digital Archives of The Reading Public Library is an online…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Celebrate MLK Jr Day on Monday January 16, 2023

Reading's annual MLK Jr Day Celebration The town's annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration is on Monday, January 16 at the Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) Performing Arts Center! Everyone is welcome to attend this commemoration of the…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Start 2023

SHINE with Mystic Valley Elder Services,12/5 We're pleased to start off the new year with a program that will help adults navigate Medicare, Medicaid (and more), and introduce the many services and programs offered by Mystic Valley Elder Services.…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - Holiday Hours and Games Night!

Holiday Hours and Games Night! RPL holiday hours begin on 12/24 The library will be open from 9:00am-1:00pm on Saturday, December 24, and closed on December 25 and December 26. the book drop will also be closed during this time. We'll re-open for…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : January Programs Starting Soon

January program registration opens soon When the days are short and chilly, the library is cooking with loads of programs and services to take your mind off the low temperatures. When you have a moment, take a look at what's happening in January…

Read More »

All Aboard Our Winter Reading Program

Around the World in 80 Days is back! Can you go Around the World in 80 Days? Join the Reading Public Library's winter reading program for kids and families! First stop: pick up a program passport at the Children's Room desk! Then, decide where you…

Read More »

Line Up Some Winter Fun and Learning at Reading Public Library

Join RPL for winter programs Dec-Feb! Follow the link below to see our latest program brochure and find out what's happening at the library this winter. We're not snowing down - so, freeze the day and sign up for a program or stop by to say…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Check Out Our Early December Events!

Click Here To View The Reading Public Library -  Check Out Our Early December Events!

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Register for An Evening with Mystery Writers!

Register for an evening with mystery writers, 12/8! Join us for an evening with a trio of mystery writers: Sulari Gentill, Hank Phillippi Ryan, and Eva Jurczyk. The event will be moderated by Rachel Raczka of The Boston Globe. "She's on the…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : November Programs And Services at RPL

The fall season is wrapping up in November with programming for all ages! See what's in store below, and click on the link in the button to see our fall brochure. The library will be open all 4 Sundays in November from 1:00 - 5:00pm. You are…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - New! Assistive Hearing Devices for Community Room Programs!

Equity and Access at RPL Equity and access are two of RPL's four core values. As part of our committment to these values, we are introducing two services newly available to our patrons. First, we now have assistive listening devices…

Read More »

Halloween Storytimes and Fun At Reading Public Library

Halloween fun at RPL starts 10/22 We've got some spooky seasonal fun for all ages! We kick off with our Psychic Lunch on the Lawn next Saturday, October 22. Bring a chair and some snacks for an afternoon with psychic investigator and…

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Healing Kits Are Now Available To Borrow

Check out our new Healing Kits! Our Healing Kits were created to aid individuals and families who are experiencing challenges or supporting someone who is. Each kit is devoted to a single topic and contains a variety of books selected to appeal to…

Read More »

Reading Public Library Sunday Opening Begins October 2, 2022

October brings a fresh slate of programs and services for you. In addition, the library will be open Sundays beginning next week and running from October through May. Sunday hours are 1:00-5:00pm. You are welcome to drop in to pick up your holds,…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Printing and scanning service update

We've just rolled out a significant upgrade to the printing and scanning stations.You can still print from a library computer station, email your documents, or send documents to print from your mobile phone or laptop. Now you have the option to…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - Register for Our New Resident Open House!

Save the date! New Resident Open House If you've recently moved to town - welcome! On October 18, please come to the library for one of our most popular programs: the New Resident Open House. This event is held in conjunction with the Town of…

Read More »

Reading Public Library has New Programs and Services For The Fall!

You'll fall for our new programs & services! The next few months are loaded with new and exciting programs and services. Don't forget, our Community Read rolls on through early October with discussions, programs, and author events - if…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Be counted in our Community Read

MY ACCOUNT | EVENT CALENDAR | CONTACT US RPL's Community Read now thru 10/8! You are welcome to join our Community Read: Unapologetically Positively You! The event encourages dialogue around the themes of body autonomy, body positivity, and body…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Summer Reading's in the books!

You read beyond the beaten path! Summer Reading 2022 is done! Thanks to everyone who participated in our programs, logged reading and listening minutes, and came to the library to say hello. What happened this summer? In the Children's…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Summer Reading's Last Hurrah!

Log your Summer Reading time thru 8/13! Hope you've enjoyed the past few weeks of summer reading! Readers, aged 18+, this is the final week to log your minutes and be entered into our Grand Prize Drawing: a National Parks Annual Pass –…

Read More »

Reading Public Library Preview Our Community Read! Starts August 13

Click Here To View The Reading Public Library Preview Our Community Read! Starts August 13

Read More »

Reading Public Library : Read More For An Extra Chance To Win

Read more for more chances to win! You're doing great on our adult summer reading program, Read Beyond the Beaten Path. We've already surpassed our first goal that resulted in a donation to the Reading Food Pantry (generously sponsored by the…

Read More »

Reading Public Library News - We've Got Space At This Week's Teens Programs!

Click here to Read More About Reading Public Library News - We've Got Space At This Week's Teens Programs!

Read More »

Reading Public Library's summertime food drive begins July 5

Summertime Drive is back - for paper goods! Paper towels, tissues, toilet paper - all essential paper goods families need. To help, this summer we've brought back RPL's Summertime Drive with a focus on paper goods. All paper goods we collect will…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Summer Reading Program Details Are Here!

Let's get ready for Summer Reading! 2022's Summer Reading program begins on June 21 and we have all the info you need to be in-the-know! Follow the link below to learn more about all 3 programs - one each for children, teen, and adult…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Join our Pride celebrations!

Click Here To View Reading Public Library - Join our Pride celebrations!

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Join our Pride celebrations!

Click Here To View Reading Public Library - Join our Pride celebrations!

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Check out And Register For Our Great June Programs

Our summer events guide is here! Our new program brochure is chock FULL of programs and events from June through August. Check it out and learn all about our Summer Reading Kickoff Concert and Picnic, events for birdwatchers, and a new series of…

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Create Arts For Adults Program Starts June 6

Click Here to view the Reading Public Library - Create Arts For Adults Program Starts June 6

Read More »

Reading Public Library - Teen Happenings in May

More May events for teens coming up! RPL's Teen Room is a happening place this month with lots of events leading right into summer. Meetups are casual gatherings with creative activities, no registration necessary, and there's still space…

Read More »

Photos