The Most Iconic Libraries in Wisconsin

Escape reality, enjoy fantasy, learn about history, or educate yourself on how to make a gourmet meal. All of that can be experienced through books. And what’s the one place you can find all the literature to learn anything your heart desires? A public library. Libraries house an abundance of novels, magazines, movies, and albums, and some of them are built in an architectural lover’s dream building. In Wisconsin, you can explore the beauty of old buildings while looking for the perfect book at these iconic libraries.

Lake Geneva Public Library

Built in 1954, this mid-century modern building has preserved the iconic design by James R. Dresser, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. At one time, the Lake Geneva Public Library was a family home, but it was eventually donated to the city and transformed into a library. The small home served as a library from 1885 to 1954, until a fireproof library could be built. And thus, the Lake Geneva Public Library found its new home. Today, the library offers public programs and events and conducts a non-profit organization. The Friends of the Lake Geneva Library provide services, raise donations, raise awareness of library resources, manage books sales, and more. Collect a good book and head to the Riviera Beach, within walking distance of the library. Always open to the public, the beach can be enjoyed on a hot summer day or under a blanket during a cool fall day. For another outdoor activity, enjoy the Geneva Lake Shore Path. Offering views of historic estates and beautiful homes the 26-mile path also weaves through forested segments.

Burlington Public Library

Throughout the years, the Burlington Public Library has relocated, but the mission has always been the same. In 1908, the library was founded as the Burlington Library, and in 1913, it became the city library. In 1964, the library moved into the old post office, which was built in 1917. And in 1987, it eventually expanded to what it is today. For endless fun, check out the calendar of events to see what the library is currently offering. After educating yourself at the library, continue growing your brain at the Logic Puzzle Museum. Sixty hands-on puzzles and brain teasers are available to promote thinking, fun, and cognitive strength. Visitors can also keep a puzzle that they make themselves! Another enticing activity in town is the Burlington Farmers Market. Pursue their list of vendors and pick up locally made breads, soaps, cheeses, oil, and more.

Beloit Public Library

The Beloit Public Library, which started in the late 1850s and was run by local volunteer fire companies, has been operating for over 125 years. In 1969, the library won the Wisconsin Library of the Year Award. Today the library is a big part of the community, popular for their plethora of services. The library provides events for children, teens, and adults; they are free and open to the public. Another Beloit attraction for hands on learning and education is the Logan Museum of Anthropology. A teaching museum, affiliated with Beloit College, this museum has been educating the public since 1894. The museum is used by students for research, inspiration, and to learn hands on skills. Later, spend some time outdoors in Beloit at Big Hill Park. Located on the bluffs of the Rock River, the 190-acre park has an abundance of nature and hiking trails. Take the trails to the scenic overlook and get a picturesque view of the town.

Milwaukee Central Library

One of the most historic libraries in Wisconsin is the Milwaukee Central Library. Founded in 1878, the original building is made up of French and Italian Renaissance styles. The additions to the building have stretched it the entire length of the block it calls home, and the integrity of the building has designated it a landmark by the Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission and granted it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the library is comprised of over 2.7 million books, as well as other types of media, and has a computer lab with resources for the public. Another historic focal point near the library is the Milwaukee Public Museum. Exhibits include zoology, history, anthropology, botany, and geology. Check out a show at their planetarium or participate in one of their ongoing programs, including Science on Tap, MPM Book Club, and more. One more enticing unique historical attraction within walking distance of the library is the Pabst Mansion. Constructed in 1892, the mansion was once a family home filled with furnishings and artwork, and priceless treasures. It was later sold and became a part of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Milwaukee as the archbishop’s residence.

Verona Public Library

The Verona Public Library has a vast history in the state of Wisconsin. Erected in the prairie grass and wildflowers in the native land of the Ho-Chunk tribe, the library recognizes and respects the rich Indigenous land on which it is built. The library was opened in 1947 by one pioneering woman who did not give up after being previously denied a request to open a library. Besides media and print media, the library also offers public computer use, meeting and study rooms, as well as community programs, events, and art exhibits. After a stop at the library take to the trails at Military Ridge State Park. The trail consists of 40 miles that run through agricultural lands, woods, wetlands and prairies. The route was the same route used in 1855 military as a path from Verona to Dodgeville. Another charming landscape in close proximity to the library is the Badger Prairie County Park. The 317 acres serve as the center of the Ice Age Junction Area. The park includes trails for mountain biking, hiking, fields for sports, and even an aeromodelling field.

Waukesha Public Library

In the geographic center of town, Cutler Park holds the Waukesha Public Library. Established in 1896, the library has seen five additions and renovations since then. The library offers reading programs, community events, and a public art collection. Explore the library and all it has to offer, as well as the surrounding area. Stroll through the Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum and partake in the history of the diverse community. With its early days as a one-room museum in the Courthouse in 1893, the establishment has grown to over 15,000 artifacts. Exhibits have included Trails to Wak-shta, The Wizard of Waukesha, A Splendid Little War, and more. Outside the museums and libraries, take to nature at Frame Park. The park includes a recreation area, biking trails, sports facilities and most intriguing, formal gardens.

Why These Libraries Are Worth the Trip

Within this Midwest state, libraries loaded with history, not only in their literature but also in their architecture and past, come to life. The libraries offer more than novels, magazines, and movies; they also offer community services and programs to engage with the general population. Stroll through this cheese-filled state and visit these iconic libraries in Wisconsin.