According to the Town of Reading website (www.ci.reading.ma.us/general/news.htm):

Fluorescent bulbs should no longer be thrown out in the trash

 

Fluorescent Bulb Collection

Fluorescent light bulbs, which contain dangerous mercury, should no longer be thrown out in the trash. Improper disposal of fluorescent bulbs has been proven to have serious consequences for the environment and for people’s health.  So that residents can safely dispose of their fluorescent lights, and in an effort to protect the air we breathe and our local water supplies, the Town of Reading applied for and received a state grant from the Department of Environmental Protection for a Universal Waste Shed. This shed, constructed at the Reading DPW facility, 75 New Crossing Road, will be used for the collection and storage of fluorescent bulbs from residents and municipal facilities in the Town. This grant was made possible through the work and cooperation of the Reading Solid Waste Advisory Committee and the Reading Women’s Club.

Fluorescent bulbs may be delivered to the DPW facility on the following days:

Monday thru Friday 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, also the third Saturday of each month 9:00 AM - 12 Noon.