About Reading — In Depth
Jail & Inmate Records
The Berks County Jail System processes and houses individuals arrested throughout Berks County. An online inmate lookup service allows the public to search for current detainees held at the facility. Visitation operates on a strict appointment-only basis, with visitors required to follow facility-specific guidelines. Pennsylvania's bail system permits posting through cash or bond, and families seeking information about recently arrested individuals can contact the jail's administrative office for details on the booking and release process.
Arrest Records
Arrest records across Berks County are kept by the Sheriff's Office and individual municipal police departments. Those seeking these records, whether residents, attorneys, or other interested parties, must contact the appropriate law enforcement agency directly. A typical arrest record includes the subject's name, filed charges, arrest date, and booking details. The Pennsylvania Right to Know Law governs how these requests are handled, balancing public access to government information against individual privacy protections.
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Berks County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Residents can run a background check through the Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) system, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Pennsylvania State Police also offers resources for Berks County residents seeking detailed criminal records.
Vital Records
The City of Reading's Department of Health and Human Services oversees the vital records for the city, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. Individuals can request copies of these records by visiting the department's office or by submitting an online request through the city's website at https://www.readingpa.gov/health-human-services. The department also provides information on public health programs and services available to residents.
Business & Licensing Records
Businesses operating within city limits must secure appropriate licenses and permits from the Department of Licenses and Inspections. This requirement covers business registration, zoning approvals, and various permits for construction projects, renovations, and other commercial activities. Business owners can find necessary forms and detailed information on the city's website at https://www.readingpa.gov/licenses-inspections, streamlining the application process and making sure of compliance with local regulations.
Economy & Demographics
The City of Reading's economy is diverse, with a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries. The city's Department of Community and Economic Development oversees economic development initiatives and provides information on local businesses, job opportunities, and economic data. Residents and businesses can access this information through the city's website at https://www.readingpa.gov/community-economic-development.
Elections & Voter Records
ELECTION HUB for Reading, Pennsylvania voters The Berks County Board of Elections administers elections for the Berks County seat and all surrounding municipalities. Their office operates from 633 Court Street, Reading, PA 19601, and can be reached at (610) 478-6490. The county's election website is www.co.berks.pa.us/Dept/Elections. Residents can register to vote online at www.vote.pa.gov, though they must do so at least 15 days before any election. Registration requires a Pennsylvania driver's license or non-driver ID card.
Municipal elections for mayor and city council occur every four years in the city. Candidate information appears on both the Berks County elections website and the city's site at www.readingpa.gov as campaigns develop. Voters can locate their assigned polling place by entering their address on the Berks County elections website. Pennsylvania's public records law ensures that most election materials remain open for inspection, including voter rolls, campaign finance reports, and certified results The November 2026 cycle will feature races for Berks County Commissioner positions and state House and Senate seats representing the area. Pennsylvania's mail-in voting system is available to all registered voters. Applications for absentee or mail-in ballots must be submitted one week before Election Day, and completed ballots must arrive by 8pm on Election Day to be counted.
Official Government Resources
Reading Pennsylvania Criminal History Records
Pennsylvania State Police ePATCH criminal background check for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Archives and Genealogy
Pennsylvania State Archives genealogy and historical records for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Eastern District of Pennsylvania for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Vital Records
Pennsylvania Department of Health vital records for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Inmate Search
Pennsylvania Department of Corrections inmate locator for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Missing Persons
Pennsylvania State Police missing persons for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Most Wanted
Pennsylvania State Police most wanted for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Sex Offender Registry
Pennsylvania Megan's Law sex offender registry for Reading.
Reading Pennsylvania Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Reading.
City of Reading
Directory of Reading city records and information
City of Reading Police Department
Police services information 815 Washington St Reading, Pennsylvania 19601 (610)655-6241
City of Reading School District
Education and school information 800 Washington Street Reading, Pennsylvania 19601 610-371-5612
City of Reading Fire Department
Fire Services information Emergency: Dial 911 Reading, Pennsylvania 19601 (610) 655-6080 william.rehr@readingpa.org
Reading Official Criminal History Background Check
1800 Elmerton Ave. Harrisburg, Pa 17110 For Information Concerning: Criminal History:(717) 783-5494 Crash Reports:(717)
Search Criminal Courts, Divorce Records and other Civil matters
Courts and case information Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts 5001 Louise Dr Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717-795
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information.
Reading Inmate Search
2520 Lisburn Road P.O. Box 598 Camp Hill, PA 17001-0598 (717) 975-4859
Nearby Cities in Berks County, Pennsylvania
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register to vote in Reading, Pennsylvania?
To register to vote in Reading, Pennsylvania, residents can register online through the Pennsylvania Department of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Berks County elections office. Pennsylvania requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Pennsylvania Department of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Reading, contact the Berks County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
How do I look up property records in Reading, Pennsylvania?
The City of Reading maintains a full records management system that provides public access to a variety of documents and information. Residents and interested parties can access vital records, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, through the City Clerk's Office. The city offers online access to property tax records, zoning information, and other municipal data through the City of Reading's website at https://www.readingpa.gov/.
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Reading, Pennsylvania?
The City of Reading's Department of Health and Human Services oversees the vital records for the city, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. Individuals can request copies of these records by visiting the department's office or by submitting an online request through the city's website at https://www.readingpa.gov/health-NJ-DE-MD. The department also provides information on public health programs and services available to residents.
How do I find business license records in Reading, Pennsylvania?
Businesses operating within the City of Reading are required to obtain the necessary licenses and permits from the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections. This includes business registration, zoning approvals, and various permits for construction, renovations, and other activities. Business owners can access the necessary forms and information on the city's website at https://www.readingpa.gov/licenses-inspections.