Simmons Neighborhood Library
🏢 Kenosha Public Library · KENOSHA, Wisconsin
Simmons Neighborhood Library
Simmons Neighborhood Library occupies a neoclassical 1900 building designed by Daniel Burnham — one of Kenosha's most historic landmarks — and holds the distinction of opening Wisconsin's first dedicated children's library in 1929.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📖 About Simmons Neighborhood Library
<p>The Simmons Neighborhood Library at 711 59th Place is one of Kenosha's most storied buildings: a neoclassical structure completed in July 1900 and designed by renowned architect Daniel H. Burnham, best known for his work on the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The branch was established on March 19, 1900, making it the earliest KPL neighborhood library. In 1929, Simmons opened a dedicated children's facility within its walls — the first such space in Wisconsin and among the earliest in the nation. Today the library blends its historic neoclassical architecture with modern technology, offering Wi-Fi, public computers, and a developmental toy collection. The building is not fully ADA-accessible, though one accessible parking space and adaptive computer equipment are available; history tours are also offered for those interested in Burnham's original design.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- 1900 neoclassical building designed by architect Daniel H. Burnham
- First dedicated children's library in Wisconsin, opened 1929
- Historical tours available of the landmark Burnham-designed structure
- Developmental toy collection; ongoing Friends of the Library book sale
- Community heating and cooling center
📱 Free with a Kenosha Public Library Card
KPL cardholders borrow, stream, and research free through Wisconsin's shared digital collections.
📍 More Kenosha Public Library branches
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed the Simmons Neighborhood Library building?
The Simmons branch was designed by Daniel H. Burnham, the Chicago architect celebrated for planning the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. The neoclassical building opened in July 1900 and remains one of Kenosha's most recognizable historic landmarks.
Why is Simmons significant for children's libraries?
In 1929, Simmons opened a dedicated children's library within its walls — the first such space in Wisconsin and the third in the entire country at the time. That tradition continues today with children's collections and programming at the branch.
Is Simmons Neighborhood Library accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The historic 1900 building is not fully ADA-accessible due to its age and protected structure, but one accessible parking space and adaptive computer equipment are provided. The library staff can assist with accommodations; contact (262) 564-6100 for details.
✓ Hours & details last verified from official sources in September 2026.