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The Milwaukee Road: Rails of Innovation

Exhibit

2024-12-22 00:00:00 2024-12-22 23:59:00 America/Chicago The Milwaukee Road: Rails of Innovation Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads. Central Library - Main Street - Exhibit, Mozart's Grove

Sunday, December 22
All day

Add to Calendar 2024-12-22 00:00:00 2024-12-22 23:59:00 America/Chicago The Milwaukee Road: Rails of Innovation Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads. Central Library - Main Street - Exhibit, Mozart's Grove

Central Library

Main Street - Exhibit, Mozart's Grove

Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024

 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America’s most transformative railroads. Officially known as the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, the Milwaukee Road was a pioneering force in rail transportation, shaping the Midwest and beyond. Founded in 1847 as Wisconsin’s first railroad, it grew to span over 10,000 miles, reaching the Pacific by 1909 and introducing innovations that changed the industry forever.

Renowned for breakthroughs such as electrifying mountainous routes, advancing railcar design, and launching luxurious passenger trains like the Hiawatha, the Milwaukee Road left an indelible mark on railroading history.

In 1981, the railroad donated its archives to the Milwaukee Public Library, ensuring the preservation of its rich history for future generations. Discover the story of speed, comfort, and innovation in this tribute to the Milwaukee Road’s enduring impact on American transportation.

Central Library


Hours

Today's hours

We're open 10:00AM to 6:00PM

Mon, Nov 18 10:00AM to 8:00PM
Tue, Nov 19 10:00AM to 8:00PM
Wed, Nov 20 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Thu, Nov 21 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Fri, Nov 22 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Nov 23 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Nov 24 1:00PM to 5:00PM

Upcoming Events

Fri, Nov 22, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Nov 23, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Nov 23, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Postal carriers are important community helpers. Learn all about how they make sure mail gets to its destination, then have fun creating your own postcard to put in delivery for someone special!

Sat, Nov 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Visit Milwaukee Public Library's beautiful Central Library, a popular destination for more than a century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features including a spectacular rotunda with an Italian mosaic floor and coffered dome. The Library also features the Betty Brinn Children's Room with the largest collection of children's books in the state; the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, featuring 14,000+ rarities; Special Collections and changing exhibits; over three million books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and eBooks; and programs, meeting rooms, and much more.

Sun, Nov 24, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Mon, Nov 25, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Mon, Nov 25, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor Event/Program
An Outreach Social Worker from the Milwaukee County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) will be available at the Central Branch Library to share information and answer questions about resources for Milwaukee County older adults 60+, adults with disabilities under 60, caregivers, or youth with disabilities turning 18.

Tue, Nov 26, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Tue, Nov 26, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. Story time includes plenty of fingerplays, songs, and other activities that help little ones learn. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.

Wed, Nov 27, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Wed, Nov 27, 10:30am - 4:00pm
Computer Training Room
Everyone can work and there is a job for everyone. Learn how to activate your skills and find career paths that match your interests and needs. We will help you navigate the resources and services available in your community to connect you with good jobs. Get help with:  Resume Writing, Job Searching, Online Applications, Interviewing, Onboarding for new jobs, Basic Computer Skills. Contact DWD Worker Connection Program: wcp@dwd.wisconsin.gov or 414-250-663

Wed, Nov 27, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Room - Back Area
Come build with us! We'll supply a variety of building materials and you'll bring the creativity. Meet friends and see what you can create together.

Wed, Nov 27, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
East View Conference Room
Attend a brief consultation with an intellectual property attorney regarding your IP.

Wed, Nov 27, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Do you have a favorite anime series you can't stop talking about? Join us to meet other anime and manga fans, watch your favorite series, and draw your own art in an anime style.

Thu, Nov 28, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Fri, Nov 29, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Nov 30, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Nov 30, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Visit Milwaukee Public Library's beautiful Central Library, a popular destination for more than a century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features including a spectacular rotunda with an Italian mosaic floor and coffered dome. The Library also features the Betty Brinn Children's Room with the largest collection of children's books in the state; the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, featuring 14,000+ rarities; Special Collections and changing exhibits; over three million books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and eBooks; and programs, meeting rooms, and much more.

Sun, Dec 01, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Mon, Dec 02, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Tue, Dec 03, All day
Main Street - Exhibit
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Tue, Dec 03, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. Story time includes plenty of fingerplays, songs, and other activities that help little ones learn. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.

Tue, Dec 03, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Mozart's Grove
Your health matters. Come talk to us! Aurora Mobile Health is providing free health services at Milwaukee Public Library's Central Library for community members.

Tue, Dec 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Just in time for your last minute holiday shopping! The Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection will present information on safe online shopping. Learn how to avoid scams and keep your personal information safe when buying online. We will cover the following topics: Online Shopping Scams, Wi-Fi, internet access, payment methods, and shipping considerations.

Wed, Dec 04, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Wed, Dec 04, 10:30am - 4:00pm
Computer Training Room
Everyone can work and there is a job for everyone. Learn how to activate your skills and find career paths that match your interests and needs. We will help you navigate the resources and services available in your community to connect you with good jobs. Get help with:  Resume Writing, Job Searching, Online Applications, Interviewing, Onboarding for new jobs, Basic Computer Skills. Contact DWD Worker Connection Program: wcp@dwd.wisconsin.gov or 414-250-663

Wed, Dec 04, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Room - Back Area
Come build with us! We'll supply a variety of building materials and you'll bring the creativity. Meet friends and see what you can create together.

Wed, Dec 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Interested in crafts but not sure where to start?  Join us for a monthly maker session to try a new creative outlet each month.  This month, create your own unique glass pieces or jewelry!

Thu, Dec 05, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Thu, Dec 05, 10:30am - 11:00am
Children's Story Steps
Young children and their caregivers are invited to story time filled with fun stories, songs, and finger plays, all designed to help little ones develop important literacy skills needed prior to learning how to read.

Thu, Dec 05, 11:00am - 11:20am
Children's Room - Back Area
Share simple stories, playful songs and gentle movement in this lapsit story time for babies aged 0-18 months, with a caregiver.

Thu, Dec 05, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor Event/Program
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.  Help is available by appointment or walk-in (as available).  To schedule an appointment, call 414-847-4961 or email jobsearchhelp@goodwillsew.com

Fri, Dec 06, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Dec 07, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Dec 07, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Winter is here and it's time to get cozy! Brave the cold and come to the library for a winter story time and build your own miniature winter cabin!

Sat, Dec 07, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Visit Milwaukee Public Library's beautiful Central Library, a popular destination for more than a century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features including a spectacular rotunda with an Italian mosaic floor and coffered dome. The Library also features the Betty Brinn Children's Room with the largest collection of children's books in the state; the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, featuring 14,000+ rarities; Special Collections and changing exhibits; over three million books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and eBooks; and programs, meeting rooms, and much more.

Sun, Dec 08, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Mon, Dec 09, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Tue, Dec 10, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Tue, Dec 10, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange - Collaboration Table #1
You bring it in we'll explain how to use it! Do you have a question about your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device? Need help accessing library resources? Bring your device and questions to a librarian, we can help!

Tue, Dec 10, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange
A workshop to help you plan for business success!

Wed, Dec 11, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Wed, Dec 11, 10:30am - 4:00pm
Computer Training Room
Everyone can work and there is a job for everyone. Learn how to activate your skills and find career paths that match your interests and needs. We will help you navigate the resources and services available in your community to connect you with good jobs. Get help with:  Resume Writing, Job Searching, Online Applications, Interviewing, Onboarding for new jobs, Basic Computer Skills. Contact DWD Worker Connection Program: wcp@dwd.wisconsin.gov or 414-250-663

Wed, Dec 11, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Room - Back Area
Come build with us! We'll supply a variety of building materials and you'll bring the creativity. Meet friends and see what you can create together.

Thu, Dec 12, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Thu, Dec 12, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor Event/Program
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.  Help is available by appointment or walk-in (as available).  To schedule an appointment, call 414-847-4961 or email jobsearchhelp@goodwillsew.com

Fri, Dec 13, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Dec 14, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Dec 14, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
It's Snowtime! Can you make a showstopper of a snowperson using a flurry of everyday materials like yarn, fabric, paper, and paint? When you're done, give your creation a name and tell us their story.

Sat, Dec 14, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Visit Milwaukee Public Library's beautiful Central Library, a popular destination for more than a century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features including a spectacular rotunda with an Italian mosaic floor and coffered dome. The Library also features the Betty Brinn Children's Room with the largest collection of children's books in the state; the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, featuring 14,000+ rarities; Special Collections and changing exhibits; over three million books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and eBooks; and programs, meeting rooms, and much more.

Sun, Dec 15, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Mon, Dec 16, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Mon, Dec 16, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Paul Gottfried Krikelas Technology Conference Room
Above & Below: A Few Great Lakes Ships and their Underwater Resting Places. Experience the peaceful look of a ship after sitting silently on the bottom of a Great Lake, some in over 100 feet of water for more than 100 years. Some are intact, others have spread out on the bottom. Their history above water will be shared as well.

Mon, Dec 16, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor Event/Program
An Outreach Social Worker from the Milwaukee County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) will be available at the Central Branch Library to share information and answer questions about resources for Milwaukee County older adults 60+, adults with disabilities under 60, caregivers, or youth with disabilities turning 18.

Mon, Dec 16, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Other - See description for location
Join us every month in the Art, Music, and Recreation department on the second floor of Central Library for an informal art book appreciation club. Each month, librarians will set out a selection of art reference books based around a chosen theme. There is no need to register -- drop in any time during the program to browse the material at your leisure.

Tue, Dec 17, All day
Main Street - Exhibit
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Tue, Dec 17, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange - Collaboration Table #1
You bring it in we'll explain how to use it! Do you have a question about your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device? Need help accessing library resources? Bring your device and questions to a librarian, we can help!

Tue, Dec 17, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Mozart's Grove
Your health matters. Come talk to us! Aurora Mobile Health is providing free health services at Milwaukee Public Library's Central Library for community members.

Wed, Dec 18, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Wed, Dec 18, 10:30am - 4:00pm
Computer Training Room
Everyone can work and there is a job for everyone. Learn how to activate your skills and find career paths that match your interests and needs. We will help you navigate the resources and services available in your community to connect you with good jobs. Get help with:  Resume Writing, Job Searching, Online Applications, Interviewing, Onboarding for new jobs, Basic Computer Skills. Contact DWD Worker Connection Program: wcp@dwd.wisconsin.gov or 414-250-663

Wed, Dec 18, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Room - Back Area
Come build with us! We'll supply a variety of building materials and you'll bring the creativity. Meet friends and see what you can create together.

Thu, Dec 19, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Thu, Dec 19, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor Event/Program
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.  Help is available by appointment or walk-in (as available).  To schedule an appointment, call 414-847-4961 or email jobsearchhelp@goodwillsew.com

Thu, Dec 19, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Do you have a favorite anime series you can't stop talking about? Join us to meet other anime and manga fans, watch your favorite series, and draw your own art in an anime style.

Fri, Dec 20, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Dec 21, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.

Sat, Dec 21, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Join us for a board game and puzzle bonanza! Have fun playing new games or revisit old ones.

Sat, Dec 21, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Visit Milwaukee Public Library's beautiful Central Library, a popular destination for more than a century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features including a spectacular rotunda with an Italian mosaic floor and coffered dome. The Library also features the Betty Brinn Children's Room with the largest collection of children's books in the state; the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, featuring 14,000+ rarities; Special Collections and changing exhibits; over three million books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and eBooks; and programs, meeting rooms, and much more.

Sun, Dec 22, All day
Main Street - Exhibit,Mozart's Grove
Nov. 1st through Dec. 31st, 2024 Join us for an exhibit celebrating one of America?s most transformative railroads.