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Celebrating Central

A Brief History of MPL's Downtown Library

2025-05-17 10:00:00 2025-05-17 12:00:00 America/Chicago Celebrating Central Join us for a presentation on the building history of Central Library. Central Library - Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room

Saturday, May 17
10:00am - 12:00pm

Add to Calendar 2025-05-17 10:00:00 2025-05-17 12:00:00 America/Chicago Celebrating Central Join us for a presentation on the building history of Central Library. Central Library - Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room

Central Library

Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room

Join us for a presentation on the building history of Central Library.

The Milwaukee Public Library’s Central Library has been a part of Milwaukee's historic downtown for over 125 years. Please join us in celebrating the architectural significance, the history, and the growth of the library as one of Milwaukee’s most cherished institutions. View some 19th, 20th and 21st century images of the changes that have occurred over time to public and staff spaces, including rarely seen areas of the library.

AGE GROUP: | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | History & Genealogy | Arts, Music, & Culture |

TAGS: | |

Central Library
Phone: 414-286-3235
Branch manager
Timothy Fluhr
Hours
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We're open 10:00AM to 7:00PM

Mon, Jun 08 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Tue, Jun 09 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, Jun 10 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Thu, Jun 11 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Fri, Jun 12 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Jun 13 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Jun 14 10:00AM to 5:00PM
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Upcoming Events

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Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Mon, Jun 08, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Mon, Jun 08, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services
Mon, Jun 08, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Mozart's Grove
Community Access to Recovery Services (CARS) specializes in helping Milwaukee County residents get connected with resources to support those living with a mental health and substance use disorder.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Mon, Jun 08, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Pride Month Book Trivia
Mon, Jun 08, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Hey, fellow bookworms! Let's celebrate Pride Month with a friendly game of bookish trivia.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Tue, Jun 09, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Tue, Jun 09, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Story Time and Play Group
Tue, Jun 09, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.
Tech-splanation @ MPL
Tue, Jun 09, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange - Collaboration Table #2
Do you have a question about your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device? Need help accessing library resources? We can help! 
Monthly Makers
Tue, Jun 09, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Calling all makers and artists! Do you love creating? Want to try and learn a new skill but don't know where to start? Join us for a monthly maker session to try a new creative outlet each month!
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Wed, Jun 10, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Wed, Jun 10, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Central Library Walking Club
Wed, Jun 10, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Join us at Central library for a weekly walk. We will meet under the dome of the Central Library and take a two-mile loop through this historic neighborhood. The club meets rain or shine.
Green Roof Tour
Wed, Jun 10, 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Teen Hangout Hour!
Wed, Jun 10, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Young Adult Area
Need help with book recommendations or want a space to decompress? Stop by the teen zone for Teen Hangout Hour!
Builder's Club
Wed, Jun 10, 4:00pm - 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.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Thu, Jun 11, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Thu, Jun 11, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Chair Yoga - Yoga Class Suitable For People Of All Abilities
Thu, Jun 11, 10:30am - 11:45am
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Join us at the beautiful Central Library for yoga and fellowship. Registration is encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
Story Time
Thu, Jun 11, 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 designed to help little ones develop important early literacy skills.
Baby Story Time
Thu, Jun 11, 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.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Thu, Jun 11, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Fri, Jun 12, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Fri, Jun 12, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Summer 2026 Friends of MPL Used Book Sale
Fri, Jun 12, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Sponsored and staffed by The Friends of the MPL volunteers, the very popular quarterly Book Sales feature thousands of books marked down to bargain prices.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Sat, Jun 13, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Sat, Jun 13, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Summer 2026 Friends of MPL Used Book Sale
Sat, Jun 13, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Sponsored and staffed by The Friends of the MPL volunteers, the very popular quarterly Book Sales feature thousands of books marked down to bargain prices.
ABC Academy
Sat, Jun 13, 10:30am - 11:30am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center,Children's Room - Back Area
Stories and a fun letter craft help build pre-reading and fine motor skills to support early literacy. This interactive program focuses on letter recognition. Each week, learn all about a new letter!
Central Library Architectural Tour
Sat, Jun 13, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features. Join a Docent Tour Guide as they share the splendor of Central Library's past!
Green Roof Tour
Sat, Jun 13, 1:30pm - 2:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Sun, Jun 14, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Mon, Jun 15, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Mon, Jun 15, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Ideas to Income - Big Money
Mon, Jun 15, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Innovation and Learning Lab
Turn your spark into something real with Ideas to Income, a two-part journey for new and emerging entrepreneurs.
Treasures of the Great Lakes - Milwaukee's Fireboats, Speaker James Heinz
Mon, Jun 15, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Hear the story of the boats that kept Milwaukee safe, including the one that does so today.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Mon, Jun 15, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Summer Solstice Celebration
Mon, Jun 15, 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
The longest day of the year is here! Come learn about how the solstice is celebrated the world over. We'll also read a story and make our own sundials!
Cozy Crafting
Mon, Jun 15, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Art, Music & Recreation Room
Get comfy, craft, and meet up with friends and neighbors at Central Library!
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Tue, Jun 16, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Tue, Jun 16, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Story Time and Play Group
Tue, Jun 16, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.
Hidden Chapter Book Club
Tue, Jun 16, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Old Board Room
The Hidden Chapter Book Club gathers monthly to read, sip, and discover. We'll discuss Is this a cry for help? by Emily R Austin and explore local LGBTQIA+ history.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Wed, Jun 17, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Wed, Jun 17, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Help for Homeless Veterans - with the VA HCHV Outreach Program
Wed, Jun 17, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Other - See description for location
A coordinator from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) Program will provide Veterans with information on resources and programs.
Central Library Walking Club
Wed, Jun 17, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Join us at Central library for a weekly walk. We will meet under the dome of the Central Library and take a two-mile loop through this historic neighborhood. The club meets rain or shine.
Entrepreneur Drop-In Hours
Wed, Jun 17, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange - Connection
Meet for free one-on-one business support with Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Angelique Sharpe!
Green Roof Tour
Wed, Jun 17, 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Housing Help - Homeless Outreach with Milwaukee County Coordinated Entry
Wed, Jun 17, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Main Street - First Floor
Meet with a member of Milwaukee County Coordinated Entry team and get connected to street, shelter and/or housing resources.
Aurora Mobile Health Clinic
Wed, Jun 17, 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Other - See description for location
Your health matters. Come talk to us! Aurora Mobile Health is providing free health services at Milwaukee Public Library Central Library for community members.
Teen Hangout Hour!
Wed, Jun 17, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Young Adult Area
Need help with book recommendations or want a space to decompress? Stop by the teen zone for Teen Hangout Hour!
Builder's Club
Wed, Jun 17, 4:00pm - 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.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Thu, Jun 18, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Thu, Jun 18, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Chair Yoga - Yoga Class Suitable For People Of All Abilities
Thu, Jun 18, 10:30am - 11:45am
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Join us at the beautiful Central Library for yoga and fellowship. Registration is encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
Story Time
Thu, Jun 18, 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 designed to help little ones develop important early literacy skills.
Baby Story Time
Thu, Jun 18, 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.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Thu, Jun 18, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Sat, Jun 20, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Sat, Jun 20, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
ABC Academy
Sat, Jun 20, 10:30am - 11:30am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center,Children's Room - Back Area
Stories and a fun letter craft help build pre-reading and fine motor skills to support early literacy. This interactive program focuses on letter recognition. Each week, learn all about a new letter!
Central Library Architectural Tour
Sat, Jun 20, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features. Join a Docent Tour Guide as they share the splendor of Central Library's past!
Know Your Money - A Free Financial Literacy Event
Sat, Jun 20, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange
A free 3-hour event bringing together 7 expert speakers covering everything you need to take control of your financial future. Open to all!
Register
Green Roof Tour
Sat, Jun 20, 1:30pm - 2:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Sun, Jun 21, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Summer Solstice Yoga - with Agape Yogastry
Sun, Jun 21, 8:30am - 9:30am
Rotunda
Celebrate the summer solstice with the movement art of yoga in the historic Rotunda at Central Library.
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Mon, Jun 22, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Mon, Jun 22, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Mon, Jun 22, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Summer Sun Prints
Mon, Jun 22, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Summer's here and the sun is shining! Let's use the the sun to create beautiful art and learn about Anna Atkins, the botanist that made her own sun prints, in "The Bluest of Blues" by Fiona Robinson.
No-Machine Pasta & Quick Sauces - Food for Thought Series
Mon, Jun 22, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Innovation and Learning Lab
Looking to feel more confident making meals at home? This easygoing, hands-on series will share helpful tips, techniques, and ideas to make preparing food at home easier.
Treasures of the Rare Books Room: 25th Birthday Edition
Mon, Jun 22, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room
Come celebrate 25th Birthday of the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room with us as we share the history of the space and the Rare Books collection itself.
Volunteer Orientation
Mon, Jun 22, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Orientation for approved volunteers only. Apply to be a volunteer on our website today!
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Tue, Jun 23, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Tue, Jun 23, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Story Time and Play Group
Tue, Jun 23, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.
Tech-splanation @ MPL
Tue, Jun 23, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange - Collaboration Table #2
Do you have a question about your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device? Need help accessing library resources? We can help! 
Historic Markers, Living Legacy Exhibit - Milwaukee's Chinese American Experience
Wed, Jun 24, All day
Chinese Room
View display of Chinese American History in Milwaukee, on loan from the Organization of Chinese Americans-Wisconsin Chapter.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Wed, Jun 24, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Central Library Walking Club
Wed, Jun 24, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Join us at Central library for a weekly walk. We will meet under the dome of the Central Library and take a two-mile loop through this historic neighborhood. The club meets rain or shine.
Green Roof Tour
Wed, Jun 24, 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Intellectual Property Brief Advice Clinic
Wed, Jun 24, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
East View Conference Room
Attend a free, brief consultation with an IP attorney to ask questions about getting started on protecting your patent or trademark.
Teen Hangout Hour!
Wed, Jun 24, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Young Adult Area
Need help with book recommendations or want a space to decompress? Stop by the teen zone for Teen Hangout Hour!
Builder's Club
Wed, Jun 24, 4:00pm - 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.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Thu, Jun 25, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Chair Yoga - Yoga Class Suitable For People Of All Abilities
Thu, Jun 25, 10:30am - 11:45am
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Join us at the beautiful Central Library for yoga and fellowship. Registration is encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
Story Time
Thu, Jun 25, 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 designed to help little ones develop important early literacy skills.
Baby Story Time
Thu, Jun 25, 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.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Thu, Jun 25, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Geek Out!
Thu, Jun 25, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Have a passion for geek media and culture? Come to Geek Out! a monthly program for teens who are enthusiastic for learning, creating and enjoying all things in geek, nerd or pop culture!
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Fri, Jun 26, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Sat, Jun 27, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
ABC Academy
Sat, Jun 27, 10:30am - 11:30am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center,Children's Room - Back Area
Stories and a fun letter craft help build pre-reading and fine motor skills to support early literacy. This interactive program focuses on letter recognition. Each week, learn all about a new letter!
Saturday Morning Volunteer Orientation
Sat, Jun 27, 10:30am - 11:30am
Paul Gottfried Krikelas Technology Conference Room
Orientation for approved volunteers only. Apply to be a volunteer on our website today!
Central Library Architectural Tour
Sat, Jun 27, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Central Library Tours
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Central Library has many significant architectural features. Join a Docent Tour Guide as they share the splendor of Central Library's past!
Volunteer Orientation
Sat, Jun 27, 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Rotary Club of Milwaukee Community Room
Orientation for approved volunteers only. Apply to be a volunteer on our website today!
Green Roof Tour
Sat, Jun 27, 1:30pm - 2:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Mon, Jun 29, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Mon, Jun 29, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Firefly Friends
Mon, Jun 29, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
Come to the Central Library to learn about the magic of fireflies! After we read a story about the beauty of summer, we'll learn how to safely catch fireflies and decorate our own bug catching jars.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Tue, Jun 30, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Story Time and Play Group
Tue, Jun 30, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Wed, Jul 01, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Central Library Walking Club
Wed, Jul 01, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Join us at Central library for a weekly walk. We will meet under the dome of the Central Library and take a two-mile loop through this historic neighborhood. The club meets rain or shine.
Green Roof Tour
Wed, Jul 01, 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Housing Help - Homeless Outreach with Milwaukee County Coordinated Entry
Wed, Jul 01, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Other - See description for location
Meet with a member of Milwaukee County Coordinated Entry team and get connected to street, shelter and/or housing resources.
Teen Hangout Hour!
Wed, Jul 01, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Young Adult Area
Need help with book recommendations or want a space to decompress? Stop by the teen zone for Teen Hangout Hour!
Builder's Club
Wed, Jul 01, 4:00pm - 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.
Wish Wall - Share your wish for America's 250th!
Thu, Jul 02, All day
Other - See description for location
As our nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we're inviting everyone to reflect on the future we want to build together.
Story Time
Thu, Jul 02, 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 designed to help little ones develop important early literacy skills.
Baby Story Time
Thu, Jul 02, 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.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Thu, Jul 02, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
Beacons of Brew City - Traveling Exhibit
Mon, Jul 06, All day
Main Street - First Floor,Mozart's Grove
The Beacons of Brew City Traveling Exhibit honors eight living LGBTQ elders who have made significant lifetime contributions to Metro Milwaukee.
Job Search and Resume Assistance - Provided by Goodwill Workforce Connection Center
Mon, Jul 06, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Main Street - Second Floor
A Goodwill Consultant will be available to provide job search assistance, resume-building help, and interview preparation.
You Are Enough
Mon, Jul 06, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
July is Disability Pride Month! Inspired by Sofia Sanchez's picture book "You Are Enough," let's celebrate the ways our differences make us special.
Beacons of Brew City - Traveling Exhibit
Tue, Jul 07, All day
Main Street - First Floor,Mozart's Grove
The Beacons of Brew City Traveling Exhibit honors eight living LGBTQ elders who have made significant lifetime contributions to Metro Milwaukee.
Story Time and Play Group
Tue, Jul 07, 10:30am - 11:15am
Children's Herzfeld Activity Center
A 20-minute story time for young children is followed by open play time. For children ages 3 and under, with a caregiver.
Tech-splanation @ MPL
Tue, Jul 07, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Business Commons, Gift of Schoenleber Foundation and Elaine C. Lange - Collaboration Table #2
Do you have a question about your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device? Need help accessing library resources? We can help! 
Typing Basics
Tue, Jul 07, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Innovation and Learning Lab
Learn to be more confident in your typing skills!
Beacons of Brew City - Traveling Exhibit
Wed, Jul 08, All day
Main Street - First Floor,Mozart's Grove
The Beacons of Brew City Traveling Exhibit honors eight living LGBTQ elders who have made significant lifetime contributions to Metro Milwaukee.
Central Library Walking Club
Wed, Jul 08, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Join us at Central library for a weekly walk. We will meet under the dome of the Central Library and take a two-mile loop through this historic neighborhood. The club meets rain or shine.
Green Roof Tour
Wed, Jul 08, 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Green Roof
Enjoy a tour of the library's Green Roof!
Aurora Mobile Health Clinic
Wed, Jul 08, 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Other - See description for location
Your health matters. Come talk to us! Aurora Mobile Health is providing free health services at Milwaukee Public Library Central Library for community members.
Teen Hangout Hour!
Wed, Jul 08, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Young Adult Area
Need help with book recommendations or want a space to decompress? Stop by the teen zone for Teen Hangout Hour!
Builder's Club
Wed, Jul 08, 4:00pm - 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.
See all events