Business Details
Your Trusted Source for Library Services in Milwaukee County
As the Milwaukee County Federated Library System, we serve as a vital resource for public libraries across Milwaukee County, fostering collaboration and enhancing community access to knowledge. Our network comprises over 30 member libraries, including urban and suburban branches, offering physical and digital collections, educational programs, and community-focused services. We provide access to books, e-books, databases, and online learning platforms through our CountyCat catalog and digital resources. Our mission centers on empowering residents through literacy initiatives, tax assistance programs, and support for rare materials and local history.We prioritize accessibility, offering services like printing, photocopying, and scanning, alongside volunteer and donation opportunities to strengthen community ties. With a focus on innovation, we integrate technology through mobile apps, reading trackers, and digital media platforms like Libby and Hoopla. Our strategic partnerships and federated structure ensure efficient resource sharing, enabling libraries to better meet diverse patron needs. We remain committed to transparency, public engagement, and continuous improvement in library services across the region.
Services
Library Card Access
Digital Resources
Online Learning
Printing Services
Book Recommendations
Tax Assistance
Rare Materials Access
Volunteer Programs
Community Events
Literacy Resources
Highlights and features
- We offer access to over 30 member libraries and 1 million+ physical/digital resources.
- Our digital platforms include e-books, databases, and online learning tools for all ages.
- We provide free tax assistance, literacy programs, and rare materials research support.
- Our federated system enables seamless resource sharing across Milwaukee County branches.
- We maintain historical collections and community-focused programming for local engagement.
Services
Library Card Access
Our free library cards grant access to 1 million+ books, movies, and materials across 30+ member libraries. Patrons can borrow physical items, stream digital content through Libby/Hoopla, and request interlibrary loans. Cards are available to all Wisconsin residents with proof of address.
Digital Resources
We offer 24/7 access to e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and academic databases through platforms like CountyCat Digital and BadgerLink. Our digital collection includes over 300,000 e-items, plus streaming music and language learning tools through Mango Languages and Transparent Languages.
Online Learning
Our learning platforms provide thousands of self-paced courses in business, technology, and personal development. Services like Gale Courses and Brainfuse offer job skills training, language instruction, and academic tutoring with live support available for homework help and career planning.
Printing Services
All member libraries provide black-and-white and color printing from public computers or personal devices via wireless submission. We offer photocopying, scanning to email/USB, and self-service options with per-page charges starting at $0.10 for standard prints.
Community Events
We host hundreds of free events annually including author talks, children's storytimes, job search workshops, and cultural exhibitions. Special programs like summer reading challenges and technology training sessions are available at all branch locations.
Questions
How do I get a library card?
Visit any member library with ID showing your current Wisconsin address. Cards are free for state residents and allow immediate access to physical and digital collections.
Are digital books and magazines available?
Yes, we offer e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines through Libby, Hoopla, and BadgerLink. These resources are accessible 24/7 with your library card credentials.
What online learning tools do you provide?
We offer Gale Courses for job skills training, Brainfuse for live homework help, and Transparent Languages for language learning. All platforms are accessible with your library card number.
Can I print from my personal device?
Yes, use our mobile printing service to submit print jobs from laptops, tablets, or smartphones. Retrieve documents at any library's self-service printer within 24 hours.
Do you have tax assistance resources?
We provide free access to tax forms, IRS publications, and online filing resources. Some branches offer in-person assistance during tax season through volunteer programs.
How can I suggest a new library purchase?
Submit title suggestions through your library's website or speak with staff at your local branch. Requests are reviewed based on collection development policies and budget availability.
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