Building Description
The Milwaukee Public Library was founded in 1878. After several moves, the Central Library was built in response to the need for more spacious quarters. It opened its doors to the public on October 3, 1898 as a shared space with the Milwaukee Public Museum.
The architectural firm of Ferry and Clas won a nationwide design competition and built a Neo-Renaissance style U-shaped building. The original structure is a combination of French and Italian Renaissance styles built of Bedford limestone. Much of the intricate outside carving was done by craftsmen standing on scaffolding. Interior materials include mahogany and oak hardwoods, brass, Sienna marble, plaster, stucco, tesserae tile and scagliola.
Several additions help make up the block-long building that stands today. The most recent addition to the building was completed in 1957 and added two stories above and four levels below ground. The most recent added feature to the building’s exterior is a green roof with solar panels.
Central Library has been designated a landmark by the Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Central Library may take a variety of tours of areas normally unavailable to the public. The Betty Brinn Children’s Room, the Old Board Room, and the Chinese Room, a former exhibit space of the Milwaukee Public Museum, will be open both days. Throughout the weekend, spaces such as the dome, the Green Roof, the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, and the 4th floor former Museum offices will be available.
Address
814 W Wisconsin Ave
Saturday Hours
10 am - 4:30 pm
Sunday Hours
1 pm - 4:30 pm
Photography
Handicapped Accessible
Fully wheelchair accessible
